AFM based nanomanipulation system with real-time visual and force feedback

Abstract

An AFM based nanomanipulation system with real-time visual and force feedback is developed aiming to overcome the problem of low manipulation efficiency and effectiveness in the traditional AFM based nanomanipulation because of its lack of real-time sensory feedback. During nanomanipulation, the system can not only provide the operator with real-time visual feedback which displays the real-time nano-environment and a real-time dynamic tip position, but also let the operator feel the 3-D real-time operation force. Furthermore, the operator can directly control the tip 3-D motion of AFM through a joystick, which makes AFM based nanomanipulation feasible and applicable. The nano-lithography and MWC-NTs pushing experiments demonstrate the efficiency and effectiveness of the system.