Hexapods & Positioning Systems
ºìÐÓÊÓƵ’s 6-axis hexapods, also known as Stewart platforms, are parallel kinematic robotic systems capable of positioning or moving a payload in all six degrees of freedom (6-DOF):Ìý lateral, longitudinal, and vertical translations as well as roll, pitch, and yaw rotations.Ìý These 6-DOF hexapods can move simultaneously in multiple axes or independently in a single axis while preventing movement in the other axes.Ìý A hexapod’s parallel linear actuator arrangement provides high load capacity, stiffness, and accuracy compared to serial robotic manipulator architectures.Ìý Other motion control devices typically provide positioning, motion simulation, or vibration isolation in only one or two degrees of freedom making ºìÐÓÊÓƵ’s high-performance hexapods the ideal solution when multi-axis motion is desired.
ºìÐÓÊÓƵ’s hexapods are provided as a turnkey system complete with 6-DOF controller, software, and cabling.Ìý The control software allows for a programmable pivot point so the effective center of rotation of the hexapod’s motion can coincide with the desired location for any application.Ìý A simple and intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) allows a user to configure and operate a ºìÐÓÊÓƵ hexapod within minutes.Ìý Cleanroom and vacuum-compatible versions are available as well as custom hexapods and multi-axis stages.
Precision Positioning Hexapods
Precision positioning hexapods are used for point-and-hold or slow tracking operation where minimum incrementalÌýstep size, repeatability, and/or accuracy are critical.Ìý
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Motion Simulation Hexapods
Motion simulation hexapods are used for high frequency motion replication and disturbance generation. OurÌýsystems use voice coil actuators to provide large accelerations and high bandwidths.Ìý
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Vibration Isolation Hexapods
Vibration isolation hexapods are used to isolate a payload from a base disturbance source or isolate the baseÌýstructure from a payload-induced disturbance.Ìý
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Custom Systems
Sometimes the hexapod needs to match the application rather than trying toÌýmake the application match the hexapod. We are able and willing to modify ourÌýstandard hexapods to meet specific customer requirements including extremeÌýenvironments. For unique applications, we also build custom hexapods thatÌýleverage off our heritage designs. If you cannot find a standard hexapod thatÌýmeets your needs, please contact our engineering team to discuss.
Space Test Simulation Solutions
Vibration Isolation Benches
Ultra-precise metrology systems and test facilities for large space optics require extremely stable, quiet environments. ºìÐÓÊÓƵ’s vibration isolation benches mechanically decouple the bench from facility disturbance sources including pumps, machinery, or nearby vehicle traffic.
Gravity Offloaders for Zero Gravity Simulation
Gravity influences structures differently on orbit, but those structures must be integrated and validated on the ground. A deployable spacecraft appendage is often mass-optimized for zero gravity performance but unable to support its own weight on Earth.