New air bearing technology from Jenaer Antriebstechnik: Precision remains stable even under thermal expansion

Patented JAT Technology Sets New Standards in Ultra-Precision Positioning
It provides ideal conditions for applications where temperature influences have traditionally been a limiting factor.

Design Principle: Cross-, T-, or L-Shaped Wing Arrangement
The system is based on two or more air-bearing-supported wings arranged in a cross, T, or L configuration. Their centerlines intersect at a central point—the Tool Center Point (TCP)—where an optical component (e.g., a lens) or a tool (such as a pick tool or diamond turning tool) is mounted.
This geometry creates a stable, thermally decoupled guidance structure in which the position of the TCP remains constant even under temperature changes—a decisive advantage over conventional linear guides.

Frictionless Motion with Maximum Accuracy
The wings are supported on both sides by air bearings. Their preload is designed so that the air gap always remains larger than the maximum possible thermal expansion in the direction of the gap. This ensures frictionless and hysteresis-free motion while maintaining maximum stiffness.
The system enables precise linear movements with extremely high repeatability and dynamic performance—ideal for high-speed processes that demand submicrometer accuracy.

Thermally Stable Precision Technology
The key advantage lies in the complete stabilization of the Tool Center Point (TCP) against thermal effects. While conventional systems suffer from positional drift caused by temperature variations, the tool position in this design remains unchanged.
This ensures process reliability, reduces calibration effort, and offers greater flexibility in motor selection—especially for applications subject to varying thermal conditions. Depending on the configuration, this setup can accommodate temperature differences of more than 40 Kelvin.