Ultra precision positioning mechanism has widely been used on semiconductor manufacturing equipments, optical spectrum analyzer and cell manipulations. Ultra precision positioning mechanism is consisted of several actuators, sensors, guides and control systems. Its efficiency depends on each performance of components. The object of this study is to design, analysis and manufacture all of the inchworm linear motor system, which is one of the equipments embodied in ultra precision positioning mechanism. Inchworm linear motor system is consisted of a controller system and an inchworm linear motor, and its driving form is similar to a motion of span worm. A design and manufacture of inchworm linear motor, which is consisted of three PZT actuators, a rod, two columns and a guide plate, are performed. Minimizing the von-Mises stress of the hinge using Taguchi method and simulation by FEM software optimizes the structural design in a column of flexure hinge. The designed columns and guide plates are manufactured by a W -EDM and NC-milling. A controller system, which is an apparatus to drive inchworm linear motor, can easily adjust driving conditions by varying resonance frequency and input-output voltage of actuators and amplifiers. The performance of manufactured inchworm linear motor system is verified and valuated. In the future, inchworm linear motor system will be used to make a more precision positioning by reinforcing a sensor and feedback system.
