Content Hexapods, 6-axis positioning stages, are based on parallel kinematics, and often referred to as Stewart Platforms. A hexapod positioning system is based on a 6-axis actuator system (XYZ, Pitch, Roll, Yaw) arranged in parallel between a top and bottom platform. PI's parallel kinematics (PKM) multi-axis precision positioning systems have many advantages over conventional serial kinematics stages, including lower inertia, improved dynamics, smaller package size, and higher stiffness. The user-programmable pivot point – integral to all PI high-performance hexapod multi-axis motion controllers – provides additional benefits, especially in alignment applications of lenses, optics, and fiber optic components. Watch a short pivot-point demo video In addition to classical "Stewart Platform" type hexapods, PI also offers alternative parallel positioners, such as the SpaceFAB 6DOF Motion Platform design, which allows for longer linear travel ranges with a lower profile. Controller and Software, Hexapod Simulation Tool PI hexapods are operated by dedicated, state-of-the-art vector motion controllers with virtual pivot point capability. An extensive software package including alignment algorithms for fiber optics or lenses, as well a simulation tool are included. Standard and Vacuum Versions Many of our 6DOF hexapods and parallel positioners are available in vacuum versions, some for UHV levels to 10-9 Torr. High-Speed / Dynamics Hexapod Platforms for Motion & Vibration Simulation Video: Hexapod Programmable Pivot Point Demonstration Demo Video: Combination of gantry linear robot with two Hexapod 6-DOF alignment systems for fast automated testing of photonics components. Video: Easy Way to Program a Hexapod Parallel Kinematics 6-Axis Stages with Electromagnetic Motors and Precision Screw Drives The H-811 miniature high precision hexapod strikes a perfect balance of size, load and performance. It has many applications in micro-assembly, silicon photonics alignment and also comes in a high-dynamics version for image stabilization. A vacuum-compatible version to 10-6 hPa is also available. The H-810 is similar, with a smaller base plate diameter. Special Systems for Photonics Alignment For fiber alignment and photonics alignment, a special F-713.HAx system based on the H-811 is also available. 20mm/sec max. velocity Dynamics to 30Hz / 0.1° Up to 40kg (88lb) Most of these high performance 6-DOF hexapod stages are available with brushless motors for long life operation. Some provide absolute measuring encoders – no referencing required after power up. The H-824 and H-825 models use a folded drive train for reduced height. 2.5mm/sec max. velocity 250kg to 500kg (550lb to 1100lb) These high performance, high load hexapods are designed for standard loads up to 1000kg (higher load custom versions can also be offered). Despite the high load capacity, they deliver sub-micron resolution. PI’s special cardanic joints with Z-offset provide the highest stiffness and best orientation-independent performance and are ideal for industrial automation and production. Up to 500kg load Self-locking to 5000N Highest Dynamics The high-speed H-860 6-axis stage is designed for highest acceleration. Its frictionless design is based on closed-loop voice coil drives, flexure guides and carbon fiber struts for minimized mass and inertia – ideal for image stabilization / simulation applications. A significantly more compact design was achieved through a novel lever-hexapod approach in this innovative concept study . The F-690 hybrid-kinematics system is based on linear motors and can achieve velocities to 500mm/sec Smallest Size The H-811 is a CIPA certified miniature hexapod with brushless motors and ball screw struts. Highest Load The H-900KSCO is designed for high loads in precision industrial automation, machine tools, automotive manufacturing, and simulation of motion on vessels. Dynamics to 30Hz / 0.1° To 0.3µm incremental motion To 5mm/sec max. velocity Ø281mm base, 190mm height To 0.2µm incremental motion To 2.5mm/sec max. velocity Ø348mm base, 328mm height UHV-compatible to 10-9 hPa Ø100mm base, 90mm height Piezo motor, non magnetic Custom 6-Axis Stage Hexapods These custom hexapods show the enormous bandwidth of PI‘s design capabilities. Integrated Rotation Stage 100x100x50mm XYZ travel 30x30x360° rotary travel Clear Aperture: This custom hexapod provides a large 800mm clear aperture and a load capacity of 250kg. This example shows the superior symmetrical design principle of parallel kinematic motion systems, such as hexapods. Low mass, high stiffness, low inertia. A similar 6-axis system with a stack of 6 single axis stages would not provide the same advantages. 6+1 Axes: Hexapod with integrated rotation stage for full 360 degree theta –Z rotation Piezo Flexure Hexapods / 6-Axis Nanopositioning Stages, Short Travel These piezo-stack driven systems provide faster response than conventional stages, in the low millisecond range, however with positioning ranges limited to <1mm. P-587 and P-562 are flexure guided, piezo driven stages with capacitive feedback for application, such as ultra-resolution microscopy and optical lithography, etc. Virtual Pivot Point for faster alignment Closed-loop position control for high accuracy and operational reliability Fastest response with minimized inertia from parallel-kinematic design, flexure guided design Wear-free and maintenance-free flexure guiding system, solid state drives, and non-contacting sensors Ideal for fiber positioning, optic alignment and photonics packaging applications, single mode fiber positioning 150x150x30mm, 66mm Aperture Ø135mm base, 50mm height LCD display for all Cartesian axes Programmable step size Compliance with Applicable Laws; Export Control Laws User access to this website is governed by all applicable federal, state, and local laws. All information available on this website is subject to U.S. export control laws and may also be subject to the laws of the country where you reside.