Ferrovac AG
Wobble Stick with Grabber for Precision Manipulation in Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV)
Wobble Stick with Grabber for Precision Manipulation in Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV)
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The Wobble Stick with Grabber combines a magnetically driven Single-Shaft Wobble Stick with a spring-loaded Grabber for precise, secure sample handling and transfer in Ultra-High Vacuum (UHV) systems.
Designed for surface science, scanning probe microscopy (SPM) and other UHV applications, this combination enables researchers to pick up, position and transfer compatible sample holders between preparation, analysis and storage positions without breaking vacuum.
The Swiss-made Ferrovac magnetic drive provides smooth, nearly force-free linear movement, continuous 360° shaft rotation and controlled angular deflection. The spring-loaded Grabber securely engages and releases compatible sample holders through a simple 90° rotation of the shaft.
Standard configurations are available from UHV Store of Switzerland, with selected combinations kept in stock for fast worldwide delivery.
Magnetic Wobble Stick with Grabber
The magnetically coupled drive minimizes the influence of atmospheric pressure on shaft movement, enabling smooth and precise manipulation without the need for long bellows assemblies.
The Single-Shaft Wobble Stick combines linear travel, continuous rotation and angular deflection of up to ±20° with a suitable mounting flange.
The Grabber attaches directly to the manipulator shaft and provides a secure mechanical interface for handling compatible sample holders. Its spring-loaded mechanism allows the sample to be engaged or released by rotating the shaft 90° in either direction, without the risk of overtightening.
This combination provides a compact and reliable solution for routine sample transfer and manipulation inside UHV chambers.
Grabber Configurations
Grabber for Flag Style Plates
The standard Grabber is designed for compatible Flag Style sample holder plates and provides a compact interface for secure sample transfer.
The Grabber increases the axial length by 20 mm (Y +20 mm).
Long Grabber for Flag Style Plates
The Long Grabber provides an extended gripping interface for applications requiring additional reach or clearance around the sample holder.
This configuration increases the axial length by 35 mm (Y +35 mm).
Grabber for Dove-Tail Shuttles
The Dove-Tail Grabber is designed for handling compatible Dove-Tail sample shuttles, providing an alternative mechanical interface for sample transfer.
This configuration increases the axial length by 26 mm (Y +26 mm).
The appropriate Grabber type depends on the sample holder geometry and the available clearance inside the vacuum chamber.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manipulator Type | Magnetically driven Single-Shaft Wobble Stick |
| Mounting Flange | DN40CF (2.75" OD) |
| Linear Travel | 100–700 mm, depending on configuration |
| Linear Force | 30 N |
| Rotational Torque | 0.5 Nm |
| Angular Deflection | ±20° with suitable mounting flange |
| Shaft Rotation | Continuous 360° |
| Grabber Mechanism | Spring-loaded, 90° locking and releasing |
| Grabber Extension | 20 / 35 / 26 mm, depending on type |
| Maximum Bakeout Temperature | 200 °C |
| Operating Pressure Range | 1 × 10⁻¹¹ to 1000 mbar |
| Materials | UHV-compatible |
| Country of Origin | Switzerland |
Applications in Ultra-High Vacuum
The Wobble Stick with Grabber is particularly suitable for sample transfer and manipulation in surface science, scanning probe microscopy (SPM), thin-film deposition, surface analysis and other UHV research systems.
It allows researchers to transfer sample holders between preparation stages, measurement positions and storage locations while maintaining vacuum conditions.
The combination of linear travel, continuous rotation and angular deflection provides flexibility for accessing different positions within the vacuum chamber.
Delivery & Assembly
The Wobble Stick and Grabber are supplied as a complete combination but delivered in two separate packages. Assembly instructions are included for mounting the Grabber onto the Wobble Stick.
The Grabber is not pre-assembled. Final assembly is performed by the customer.
Different linear travel lengths and Grabber configurations are available. Stock availability and delivery times depend on the selected combination.
Looking for Other Wobble Stick Configurations?
For applications requiring an actively operated gripping mechanism, explore our Wobble Stick with Pincer Grip.
The Standard Wobble Stick and compatible Grabbers are also available separately.
For customized configurations requiring High Torque, Wide Angle, Fine Control or alternative support structures, see our XR Wobble Stick.
If you need assistance selecting the appropriate Wobble Stick and Grabber combination for your UHV system, please contact UHV Store of Switzerland.
