Precision Motion Stages for Life Sciences & Diagnostic Applications

Maximize throughput and positioning accuracy with high-performance motion systems

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Solving Critical Motion Challenges Behind Next-Generation Instruments

As life science and diagnostic instruments advance toward higher throughput, greater automation, and more complex workflows, motion requirements have become more demanding. Modern instruments depend on tightly controlled motion to maintain alignment, manage settling time, and support consistent performance across complex workflows. Therefore, in next-generation instruments, motion is no longer just a subsystem—it is often the key to meeting throughput, accuracy, and repeatability requirements.

Our Core Capabiities:

Dover Motion supports life science and diagnostic instrument development with motion platforms designed for:

  • Sub-Micron Positioning Performance for imaging, sample handling, and analytical workflows
  • High-Speed Motion and Fast Settling to support higher-throughput instrument operation
  • Stable Z-Axis and Focus Control for demanding optical and imaging applications
  • Coordinated Multi-Axis Motion for scanning, alignment, and automated workflow execution
  • Compact Stage Architectures for space-constrained OEM instrument designs
  • Custom Motion Engineering tailored to unique system requirements and integration constraints

Interested in Learning More?

Applications We Empower:

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Sequencing platforms depend on motion systems that can support fast sample movement, stable positioning, and precise alignment across demanding imaging workflows. Dover Motion helps NGS developers improve throughput while maintaining the motion performance required for accurate, repeatable results.

Digital Pathology

Digital pathology workflows rely on the ability to move slides quickly, position samples accurately, and maintain precise focus across large scan areas. Our motion solutions support automated slide scanning, image acquisition, and multi-axis motion for whole slide imaging and other pathology automation challenges.

Recommended Products:

SmartStageâ„¢ XY

The SmartStage™ XY linear positioning stage, also available as a single axis, offers high precision and includes an embedded controller inside the stage.

wdt_ID Travel 50 - 200 mm
1 Accuracy ≤ 10 μm
2 Repeatability 0.8 μm
3 Payload 10 kg

SmartStageâ„¢ XY Monolithic Stage

The SmartStage XY Monolithic stage, is a linear motor stage in a low-profile XY form factor, with physically integrated controller, designed for precision positioning.

wdt_ID Travel 50 - 75 mm
1 Accuracy 12 μm
2 Repeatability 0.8 μm
3 Payload (kg) 10 kg

DOFâ„¢ Focusing Stage

The DOF™  microscope stage is optimized for objective focusing with increased travel, higher bandwidth, and lower cost than piezo stages.

wdt_ID Travel 5-9 mm
1 Resolution 1.25 nm
2 Repeatability < 50 nm
3 Bandwidth > 225 Hz

SmartStageâ„¢ Shuttle Long Travel Stage

The SmartStage Shuttle is a long travel linear stage, which provides linear motor precision and throughput for XY stage applications.

wdt_ID Travel 200 - 500 mm
1 Accuracy 5 μm
2 Repeatability 1.2 μm
3 Payload 10 kg

SmartStageâ„¢ Z-50

The SmartStageâ„¢ Z-50 provides a unique combination of travel distance and precision for vertical Z axis stage applications.

wdt_ID Travel 50 mm
1 Resolution 5 nm
2 Accuracy 10 μm
3 Repeatability .8 μm

Why Choose Dover Motion?

  • Precision that supports instrument performance: We design stages that help OEMs achieve the positioning performance required for demanding optical and analytical workflows.

  • Built for OEM integration: We work with instrument developers to match motion architecture to application requirements, available space, and system constraints.

  • Throughput without compromise: Our XY, Z, and multi-axis motion systems are designed to support fast movement, efficient scan strategies, and reliable settling behavior to keep the performance high.

  • Advanced Motion Control: Powered by our Motion Synergyâ„¢ API software, our systems deliver smooth, coordinated motion with real-time responsiveness and precise control.

  • Collaborative Engineering Support: We work closely with your team to provide motion expertise, fast prototyping, and responsive guidance throughout the whole development process.

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