Home/Technical Glossary/Stages Stages “Stages” apply to motion as in a mechanical system; generally referred to as X, XY, XYZ and rotary. The basic function of a stage is to constrain motion to a defined direction. For a linear stage, this motion is, ideally, along a straight line. Motorized linear stages are used to precisely position objects along a single axis. They are comprised of a moving platform and stationary base joined by a bearing system. A motion controller is utilized to control position electronically. Motorized stages are particularly suited for high volume/high speed precision applications. Motorized rotation stages are used to precisely position objects around a rotation (circular) axis. Motorized rotary stages are particularly suited to laser cutting, laser welding or laser marking applications on tubes, cylinders, or odd-shaped packages.
