Hexapods provide precision and versatility for loads from 2 kg to 1,000+ kg.
June 2016, Auburn, MA – Hexapods are 6 DOF motion systems that derive 6-axis movement (XYZ, Pitch, Yaw) from actuators placed in parallel between a top and bottom platform. Available in a variety of sizes with bases ranging from 100mm to 1m, different stiffness configurations, and supportive of loads from 2 kg to 1,000+ kg, PI hexapods share two common traits – precision and versatility– as seen in a new test of a drone-mounted camera on PI’s H-840 hexapod as it goes thru a series of motions.
Simulation and Compensation of Motion, CIPA: Certificate of Registration of Vibratory Apparatus
Complex patterned motion generation is becoming increasingly important for applications, such as vehicular simulation and airborne platform simulation and test. However, many other emerging fields of structural and active mechanical subsystem analysis, validation, and design can also benefit from flexible, six-degree-of-freedom motion simulator mechanisms capable of generating specific motion patterns in real time. Hexapods are suitable to provide highly dynamic motion, but also sub-micrometer position resolution and stability. H-840 hexapod is CIPA certified for 6-axis image stabilization capabilities of cameras. The versatility, not unlike the motion range provided by human hand, is obtained thru the parallel kinematic design and the 6-axis vector motion controller that provides smooth vectorised motion. A randomized, used-defined pivot point (center of rotation) that can be changed on the fly by one software command allows for increased versatility. Software for alignment and tracking is included, as well as for defining trajectories and sinusoidal curves with high accuracy. Additional software tools avoid collisions with surroundings in restricted workplaces.
Different Drive Systems for Different Applications
For the highest dynamics linear motors are used, such as in the H-860 hexapod, for high load applications, roller screw drives with torque motors are available and for mid-level load and speed, ball screw drives are used, such as in the cases of the H-840.
Applications of Hexapods
Hexapod applications include motion simulation, industrial production, precision machining, automotive industry, image stabilization test equipment, vibration simulation, precision positioning and alignment of opto-mechanical components.
More Information, Application Articles
Standard and Custom
PI has in-house engineered solutions with over 4 decades of experience working with customers to provide products that meet application demands, and can quickly modify existing product designs or provide a fully customized OEM part to fit the exact requirements of the application.
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About PI
PI is a leading manufacturer of piezo ceramic components, precision motion control equipment, piezo motors, air bearing stages and hexapod parallel-kinematics for semiconductor applications, photonics, bio-nano-technology and medical engineering. PI has been developing and manufacturing standard & custom precision products with piezoceramic and electromagnetic drives for 4 decades. The company has been ISO 9001 certified since 1994 and provides innovative, high-quality solutions for OEM and research. PI is present worldwide with twelve subsidiaries, R&D / engineering on 3 continents and total staff of 850+.