We maintain several areas of research and development interest.  If you are interested, we would be happy to discuss joint projects in any of these areas or develop a product custom to your needs.

Employing a unique high accuracy "caterpillar" linear drive mechanism.  The Nanojack actuator when coupled with a high resolution encoder and Delta Tau controller can provide 10 nanometer resolution and 50 nanometer repeatability.  Lengths are 25mm 50mm 100mm 150mm and 200mm.  Forces vary.

Using 6 of the Nanojack actuators our Hexapod robot provides a unique vibration free platform with repeatability in the 50 nanometer range when 3D position compensation is used.

Using dual sided Nanojack drives on either side of the center of mass, the Nano Machine Tool provides 10 nanometer resolution and 50 nanometer repeatability.  Uses include micro machining, laser etching, laser machining, and other processes requiring high precision movements.  Work areas are 50mmx50mmx50mm, 100mmx100mmx50mm, and 200mmx200mmx100mm.

Toolmen is collaborating on research conducted by Dr. Martin Berg of the University of Washington on the development of the necessary control algorithms in order to integrate laser tracker feedback into a machine tool or robot in order to improve positioning accuracy and response by an order of magnitude over conventional methods.  This has the potential to reduce the cost of large scale machines significantly by reducing the required mass as well as allow manufacture of more precise parts.  A laser tracker, located off the machine is accurate to 1 micron over 25 meters.  Dr. Berg's web site is:  www.me.washington.edu/~bergweb

A variation on Friction Stir Welding, Reciprocating Stir Welding moves the weld tool in a back and forth movement at high speed and acceleration.  This technology promises to better mix the materials on both sides of the join line and provide better join line characteristics and overall performance.  This project is in cooperation with SMU's Research Center for Advanced Manufacturing.

RoboSentry is a computer controlled weapon system capable of positioning and firing a weapon remotely.  Integrating a video camera with servomotors and advanced motion control capability.  RoboSentry can remove human personnel from tedious and hazardous guarding activities and place them in a secure location while still providing effective sentry duty.  Communications can be either fiber optic or wireless.

Designed at the behest of General Motors this fast paced project is in cooperation with SMU's Research Center for Advanced Manufacturing.  Incorporating a unique stir surface optimized for spot welding in conjunction with our own advanced force and speed control this project promises to open up Friction Spot Welding as a whole new way of joining thin metal parts.

This latest joint venture with SMU's RCAM, Brookhaven National Laboratories, and Acceleron Corporation promises to revolutionize Ebeam technology by allowing the use of the Ebeam without today's the requisite vacuum.  Prototype machine will be operational by May of 2008.