The parallel kinematic hexapod systems from Physik Instrumente (PI) offer precise positioning in six axes with an accuracy of less than 1 µm. The new miniature hexapod M-810 only requires minimal installation space. With a diameter of only 10 cm and a height of 118 mm, it offers travel ranges of up to 40 mm in the XY plane and up to 13 mm in the Z direction. The position resolution of the single leg is only 40 nm due to the high-precision brushless special DC motors used and the high-resolution encoder.

The system reliably positions loads up to 5 kg and achieves speeds of up to 10 mm / s. As the manufacturer explains, parallel kinematic systems have several advantages over stacked multi-axis positioners. So all six actuators act on a common platform, whereby the moving mass is low. In addition, there is no addition of guide errors and tilting of individual axes. The pivot point freely definable by software command remains independent of the movement.

Miniature stepper motor positioned in the tightest of spaces