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Design and application of a hybrid alignment platform for a double-sided hot embossing process

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Abstract

Hot embossing is a novel technique for the cost-effective production of micro-parts. Misalignment between the top and bottom surfaces of a product that has double-sided microstructures reduces its functions. Most solutions involve repairing or reproducing the embossing mold, which increases the cost for the molding process. This study proposes a hybrid alignment platform that allows accurate positioning and angular alignment for the embossing processes. The hybrid alignment platform includes two units. The upper unit allows angular adjustment using a precision rotary table. The lower unit allows positional adjustment using two orthogonal micrometers. Calibration tests are conducted for a series of adjustment steps along the X, Y and C axis. Only one alignment step is necessary for each axis. The alignment platform allows rapid positioning and increases replicability. The hybrid mold adjustment platform is used to resolve a problem with gear misalignment and the problem of eccentricity in the production of micro-gears is effectively resolved.

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Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the National Science Council under NSC grant NSC-102-2221-E-151-019.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mold and Die Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan

    Cheng-Hsien Wu, Cheng-Hao Chiu & Yu-Hsuan Chen

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  1. Cheng-Hsien Wu
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  2. Cheng-Hao Chiu
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  3. Yu-Hsuan Chen
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Correspondence to Cheng-Hsien Wu.

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Wu, CH., Chiu, CH. & Chen, YH. Design and application of a hybrid alignment platform for a double-sided hot embossing process. Microsyst Technol 26, 721–730 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-019-04563-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-019-04563-4

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