Kinematic couplings are a key technology for self-alignment of two components that routinely need to be taken apart and put back together to within fractions of a micrometre.
A kinematic coupling thus avoids the use of expensive manipulators and measurement equipment and saves time. This type of coupling is used in repeatable positioning of for example optical components, medical diagnostic equipment, measuring instruments, casting moulds, wafer bonding, and for docking engine assemblies.
This project will generate the deeper understanding of the physics behind kinematic couplings and so make kinematic couplings accessible to a wider variety of applications in astronomy, column assembly of electron microscopes, disposable photonic integrated chips, and tools in manufacturing where high loads and robustness against thermal fluctuations are critical.