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Goniometer Stages
Frequently Asked Questions
A Goniometer Stage – oftentimes also referred to as a Goniometric stage – is a device used to rotate a given object with extreme precision about a desired point in space within a very small angular range.
Goniometer stages are often used for industrial applications constructing devices or machines assembled on a microscopic scale. In laboratory experiments, they are frequently used for alignment of optical elements (crystals, lenses, mirrors, polarizers, etc.) within an optical setup.
Goniometer Stages are fairly compact devices with very few protruding parts, yet they still come in an extensive variety of designs. Every design contains a drive mechanism (mechanical or motorized) and a low friction guide, both offering high accuracy and precision. There are several types of guides, each offering their own strengths and advantages. For example, crossed roller guides that contribute higher resolution for smaller ranges of motion are best suited for micro/nano-positioning applications.
Common guides are crossed roller guides, curved dovetail/rail, and air bearings.
Standard stages provide only linear motion in the X, Y, and Z planes, whereas goniometer stages produce partial rotation of XY, XZ, or YZ planes about a fixed point.
Goniometer stages typically come with a limited range of motion, often constrained within +/-15 degrees. Their main purpose is the precise alignment of an object, while larger ranges of motion can be achieved through other motion control instruments.
A single Goniometer Stage unit can cost anywhere from $150 for smaller components to $2,000+ for more advanced stages. Pricing of the stages typically depends on the driving mechanism, but it more heavily depends on the type of guide included with the unit. Stages with crossed roller guides, for example, will cost much more because of their advanced positioning technology. To find out the price of any of the stages on this page, please inquire.
Goniometer Stages are most commonly made of stainless steel or aluminum alloys, often with a black anodized finish.
Goniometer Stages - Precise, Reliable, and Controlled Angular Positioning
When your application demands high-precision angular positioning and fine control, goniometer stages enable you to achieve the most accurate rotation with ease. At FindLight, we specialize in offering a range of goniometer stages designed for the delicate angular adjustments required in many optical, scientific, and industrial setups.
What Are Goniometer Stages?
A goniometer stage is a motion control platform that lets you tilt or rotate a component about a horizontal axis with a high degree of precision. Often used in optical benches, metrology setups, biotechnology, semiconductor processing, and many other applications, goniometers enable you to perform small, accurate angular tweaks that are essential for fine alignment and proper functionality.
Goniometers typically rotate over a limited range, frequently ±10°, ±20°, or ±30°, depending on the design, allowing for sophisticated control without requiring a full rotation. This makes them perfect for applications where a small angular adjustment can make a dramatic difference in performance.
Why Are Goniometer Stages So Valuable?
Goniometers enable high-resolution, smooth, and repeatable angular control, a crucial requirement for many scientific and industrial applications. The ability to fine-tune an optical component’s tilt lets you align lasers, mirrors, or sensors with greater confidence, optimizing their performance and yielding more accurate results. Manual goniometers are especially desirable when you need maximum control, simplicity, or when automated routines aren’t necessary.
Types of Goniometer Stages
At FindLight, we collaborate with leading suppliers to bring you a range of goniometers designed to match your application’s demands:
Single-Axis Goniometers: Provide fine angular control about a single horizontal axis - perfect for tilting optical components or samples.
Dual-Axis Goniometers: Combine two orthogonal rotation mechanisms in a compact form - ideal for applications requiring complex angular adjustments.
Rotation Stages with Large Loading Capacity: Support heavy components while retaining smooth, accurate, and repeatable movement.
Rotation Stages with Locking Mechanisms: Provide additional stability by securing their rotation once the desirable angle is reached.
Applications of Goniometer Stages:
Goniometers enable critical and accurate angular positioning across numerous fields, from biotechnology and materials science to industrial manufacturing and metrology. Scientists, engineers, and designers rely on them to align optical components, perform fine sensor calibrations, or aid in developing custom mechanisms where small angular tweaks can make a dramatic difference in performance. Whatever your application, choosing a high-caliber goniometer guarantees maximum control, stability, and repeatability, helping you achieve your most accurate and reliable results.
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