Abstract: In order to realize initializing sequences with high accuracy and high reproducibility, a positioning device according includes an XY slider movable in directions X and Y, an object position measuring device for measuring the position of the XY slider, an X beam guiding the XY slider in the direction Y and movable in the direction X, a Y beam guiding the XY slider in the direction X and movable in the direction Y, electromagnet units having at least two pairs of electromagnets provided on the XY slider in such a manner as to embrace side faces of the X beam and the Y beam, and a rotation regulating portion provided on the X beam for regulating the rotation of the X beam.

Abstract: An alignment apparatus moves an X-Y slider together with X and Y beams. Electromagnetic guides (electromagnetic mechanisms) are interposed between the X-Y slider, the X beam, and the Y beam. The electromagnetic guides include alignment and acceleration electromagnets attached to the X-Y slider, and targets attached to the X and Y beams. The alignment electromagnet is feedback-controlled, whereas the acceleration electromagnet is feedforward-controlled.