Abstract: A positioning apparatus includes a movable stage, a first linear motor for moving the stage in a predetermined direction, a platform for supporting the first linear motor, and an inertial force application mechanism for applying a force for canceling a force acting on the platform, which is generated when the stage is moved by the first linear motor. The inertial force application mechanism includes amass body, a guide for supporting and guiding the mass body, a second linear motor for moving the mass body, and a controller for controlling the second linear motor. Since the inertial force application mechanism of the positioning apparatus prevents transmission of vibration generated by an increase in an exciting force of the stage, rapid and precise positioning can be performed.

Abstract: A precision stage is provided so as to be movable along the Z axis, in the .theta. direction, which is the direction of rotation about the Z axis, and in two oblique directions inclined with respect to the Z axis. The stage has a sensor for measuring stage position along the Z axis. Reference-position return of this sensor is carried out. Reference-position return of two Y laser interferometers for measuring the .theta. position of the precision stage is carried out in a state in which the positions of the precision stage in the direction along the Z axis and in the oblique directions are held at predetermined reference positions. After this reference-position return is carried out, reference-position return is performed with regard to an X laser interferometer and the two Y laser interferometers in a state in which the positions of the precision stage in the direction along the Z axis, in the oblique directions and in the .theta. direction are held at predetermined reference positions.

Abstract: In a transfer sheet and a method of transferring a figuration to a ceramic product, an ink is provided by mixing a chromophoric pigment for expressing a desired coloration, a vitreous powder and thermoplastic resin. A sheet of paper or plastic film is perpared on which an appropriate figuration is screen printed with the use of the ink to transfer it to an outer surface of a ceramic product. A thermoplastic separable layer is provided between the mount sheet and a pigment layer. The pigment layer is coated with an adhesive layer.

Abstract: A stage feeding device has a movable guide which is guided on a reference surface of a platen to be movable in the Y-direction, a Y-linear motor for moving the movable guide in the Y-direction, a movable stage which is supported by the movable guide to be movable in the X-direction, and carries an object, and an X-linear motor for moving the movable stage in the X-direction. The stator of the X-linear motor is supported by a second stationary guide to be movable in only the Y-direction independently of the movable guide, and is moved in the Y-direction by a driving mechanism. The stator of the Y-linear motor and the second stationary guide are fixed to the base, and mount members for removing vibrations are arranged between the base and the platen.

Abstract: An accelerometer comprises a pair of stators, a permanent magnet arranged within each of the stators, arcuate support portions diametrically opposed to each other on the surface of each stator, a pair of ring members each of which is positioned on the arcuate support portions of a stator, and a support ring with a flapper interposed between the support ring members. The flapper is connected to the supporting ring by two hinge portions. On each side of the flapper is a bobbin on which a coil is wound, the coils being connected to an external circuit. All of the component elements of the accelerometer are constructed and designed so as to avoid stress depending upon a change in ambient temperature.