Integrating a complex electronic system in a small scale autonomous instrumented robot: the NanoWalker project

摘要

The Nano Walker project is an attempt to explore a new approach in the development of various instruments. The idea is to build a small autonomous robot capable of nanometer range motions that will provide a standard platform for new miniaturized embedded instruments. This modular approach will allow easy expansion in instrumentation capability through the use of an arbitrary number of Nano Walkers which would perform similar or different measurement simultaneously on various samples. To do so, a fair amount of electronics must be embedded for infrared wireless communication, processing, support for the embedded instrument, and accurate control and drive capability for the piezo-actuated motion system. Miniaturization of the whole assembly is also a key characteristic to allow more robots to operate simultaneously within smaller surface areas. As such, new assembly techniques applicable to small volume production must be used to achieve the smallest possible implementation. The integration phase within the technological constraints is complicated by the fact that several factors such as the weight and weight distribution of the electronic assembly will have a direct impact on the very sensitive motion behavior of the r6bot. The Nano Walker is briefly described with the integration phases and the requirements that must be met by the assembly process.