Piezoelectric closed-loop motion modules are integral to the Dynamic Ionosphere CubeSat Experiment (DICE) satellite funded by NSF

Victor, NY — Dec. 16, 2011 — New Scale Technologies  today announced that its miniature linear actuator modules were on board the United Launch Alliance Delta 2 rocket launched at Vandenberg Air Force Base October 28. The New Scale modules are integral to the Dynamic Ionosphere CubeSat Experiment (DICE) satellites, a pair of “pico-satellites” built by the Space Dynamics Laboratory at the Utah State University in partnership with ASTRA (PI), L-3 Communications Systems, NASA and the National Science Foundation.

The DICE satellites will collect data on variations in ionosphere plasma density that affect the performance of communications, surveillance, and navigation systems on earth and in space. The small, low-powered satellites measure 10 x 10 x 15 cm each, and require ultra-small, low-power components. The project is funded by a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation.

The New Scale motion module is a miniature high-resolution positioning system with piezoelectric motor, integrated drive electronics and closed-loop control. Less than half the size and one-fourth the weight of comparable systems, it offers 0.5μm position resolution with many millimeters of travel. It operates on a 3.3V input and holds position with power off.

For more information about DICE, visit http://www.sdl.usu.edu/programs/dice

About New Scale Technologies

New Scale Technologies develops small, precise and smart motion systems for critical adjustments of optics in imaging devices and many other micro positioning applications. Our simple and elegant solutions deliver best-in-class performance in consumer imaging, biometric authentication, surveillance, medical devices, scientific instruments, haptic systems and many other markets. We design and manufacture custom products and license our technology to manufacturers worldwide. Our customers benefit from complete motion solutions that are tailored to their unique requirements and easily integrated into their next-generation instruments.

SQUIGGLE is a registered trademark, and New Scale Pathway and UTAF are trademarks of New Scale Technologies, Inc.

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