A hexapod is a parallel-kinematic motion platform, that moves, positions, and aligns loads in six degrees of freedom: three translational X, Y, Z and three rotational ΘX, ΘY, ΘZ. The typical structure of a hexapod, also known as Stewart platform, consists of six length-adjustable actuators connected via flexures to the base plate as well as a motion platform that carries the load. Thanks to their parallel-kinematic design, hexapods can execute complex multi-axis motion profiles with high repeatability, dynamics, and stability. At the same time, they are very compact.
PI's precision hexapods are based on more than three decades of design and manufacturing experience. Our broad range of drive technologies, from piezoelectric to electromagnetic, enables us to offer hexapods for a wide range of specification requirements and installation situations, when combined with the appropriate sensors, software, and motion control.
Thanks to powerful, intuitive controllers and software, the hexapods are easy to control. The user-definable center of rotation also provides maximum application flexibility.
Our 6-axis hexapods are available in different sizes and configurations and cover a variety of applications, from hexapods for sample positioning in experiments to active alignment of fibers and optical elements to automated assembly.
Discover our wide range of precision hexapods for loads from 1 kg to 250 kg in the standard version and repeatability up to ±0.06 µm. Customized precision hexapods can even carry loads of more than 2,000 kg.
PI's high-precision mini hexapods offer a perfect balance between size, payload, and performance. These ultra-compact hexapods are ideal for applications such as the positioning of tools or workpieces in micro-assembly, the alignment of optical fibers in silicon photonics, or the simulation of motions for functional tests. Vacuum versions down to 10-6 hPa are also available.
PI's medium-sized hexapods are available in a wide range of variants for the most diverse application requirements: from dynamic hexapods for motion simulation to systems with maximum repeatability for precise alignment to hexapods with folded drivetrains in a compact design that can position medium loads.
PI's heavy-duty hexapods position heavy loads safely and accurately, regardless of orientation or installation situation. This is made possible by special universal joints with Z-offset and other backlash-free, rigid components. Possible applications range from moving heavy components and optics to positioning inspection tools in industry and research to aligning reflectors in telescopes.
PI has many years of experience in vacuum technology and high vertical integration. Therefore, PI is ideally situated to offer standard and custom hexapods adapted to the requirements of vacuum applications. The selection of suitable drive components and materials, the right designs and accessory parts, as well as the corresponding manufacturing processes and quality controls all contribute to this.
Standard hexapods are available for vacuum surroundings of up to 10-6 hPa. Custom hexapods can even be designed for higher vacuum classes.
Controller, Software, and Integration
- Intuitive operation of 6 DOF systems
- Fast startup
- Universal, high-performance GUI
- Extensive software package
- EtherCAT®️ interface
The hexapod controller enables simple and intuitive control of parallel-kinematic systems: All target positions can be commanded in Cartesian coordinates. Calculations for controlling the individual struts and the resulting desired platform movement are performed by the controller.
The position and alignment of both the reference coordinate system and the center of rotation can be conveniently defined in the software and adjusted to the application. PI's universal GUI can be used to control and start up not only all hexapod systems, but also all other PI positioning systems with any drive technology. The PI Software Suite, a comprehensive software package, also offers drivers and libraries for many commonly used programming languages.
Emulating the controller as a virtual machine facilitates integration in the customer's programming even before deployment of the hexapod. This makes it possible for customers to develop, test, and optimize user programs and to integrate the hexapod in the production environment even before receiving the system.
The simulation program for parallel kinematics, which enables the calculation and depiction of the workspace and load situations, can also be used to simplify implementation. An industrial EtherCAT® interface is also available as an option for integration in automation processes.
