Abstract: A device for detecting six components of the relative motion of two bodies during a primarily two-dimensional translatory basic motion is described. The device has a plate which is provided with a two-dimensional, optical grating, and which is equipped with a plurality of vertically arranged devices for distance measuring. A second element which is composed of an arrangement of two or three optical gratings, and a plane surface which is parallel to the gratings is included. The optical gratings permit a detection of the relative displacements in X- and Y- directions parallel to the lower plate via an evaluation of the variations in intensity of the reflected light.

Abstract: An optical position measuring device, in particular for a drive for precise positioning, is recited, which comprises two drive units which are movable in respect to each other, wherein one of the two drive units has a graduation as an integral component. The latter can be scanned by a scanning unit connected with the other drive unit for generating position-dependent output signals. The graduation is directly or indirectly disposed on a level surface of the drive unit, from which a distance between the two drive units is created in such a way that by the cooperation of the two drive units the generation of a defined relative movement between the two drive units is possible.

Abstract: A guide assembly to be mounted on a machine-tool or a measuring machine and including a guide rail mountable in the machine-tool or the measuring machine as an independent structural element, and a linear encoder mountable on the guide rail as a separate unit before mounting of the guide rail in the machine-tool or the measuring machine.