Modular Frame for Multi-Axis Motion System

A modular base subassembly for a motion control system comprising multiple motion actuators apportioned among separate, joinable subassemblies, the base subassembly comprising:

• at least one top plate member providing a first orientational reference interface surface for contacting a second orientational reference interface surface of an upper subassembly when the upper subassembly becomes attached to the base subassembly;
• at least one first side plate member, disposed perpendicularly to the top plate member, to which at least one linear actuator is attached for moving a payload towards and away from the top plate member;
• and
• at least one back plate member, disposed perpendicularly to both the top plate member and to the first side plate member;
• wherein the top plate member, first side plate member and back plate member comprise complementary interlocking shape features to mutually engage one another at right angles;
• and
• wherein at least one of the top plate member, side plate member and back plate member further comprise hole patterns allowing insertion of one or more adjustable clamping mechanisms to draw the members into alignment such that a motion axis of the linear actuator is maintained normal to the first orientational reference interface surface.

A method for manufacturing a modular frame for a multiple-axis motion control system, the method comprising:

• obtaining a first subassembly having a first orientational reference interface surface and at least one first motion actuator for moving a first payload relative to the first orientational reference interface surface;
• obtaining a second subassembly having a second orientational reference surface and at least one second motion actuator for moving the second payload relative to the second orientational reference interface surface;
• joining, by bringing the first orientational reference interface surface into contact with the second orientational reference interface surface, at least the first subassembly and the second subassembly to form a composite frame of the motion control system, whereupon motion produced by the first and second motion actuators results in relative motion between the first payload and the second payload;
• and
• performing an alignment of either, or both of, the first motion actuator relative to the first orientational reference interface surface and the second motion actuator relative to the second orientational reference interface surface prior to the joining.