PI Introduces High-Load Hexapod 6-DOF Family for Precision 6-Axis Positioning of Loads up to 500 kg

H-855 modular hexapod platform combines high load capacity, sub-micron positioning performance, extended travel, and configurations optimized for speed or compact installation

The H-855 high-load hexapod parallel positioning robot family is a new modular 6-DOF positioning platform designed to precisely position and align payloads weighing up to 500 kg (1100 lbs).

Designed for industrial automation, optics, semiconductor, aerospace, and simulation applications, the H-855 precision positioning platform combines high load capacity with six-axis precision motion in a compact parallel-kinematic design. Four configurations allow customers to select a system optimized for precision and load capacity, speed, compact dimensions, or extended travel.

Four Configurations for Different Motion Requirements

Rather than using one mechanical configuration for every application, the H-855 family uses a modular architecture that allows the mechanics to be adapted to different performance requirements.

The H-855.H2A precision positioning platform is optimized for accurately moving heavy components and supports payloads up to 500 kg (1100lbs) when mounted with the base plate horizontal. Typical minimum incremental motion is 0.3 µm in X and Y and 0.15 µm in Z, with typical unidirectional repeatability of 0.4 µm in X and Y and 0.15 µm in Z.

Other variants are designed for higher-throughput applications, with velocities up to 10 mm/s and feature an integrated holding brake. The H-855.H2AC uses folded actuator legs and smaller platforms to reduce the installation envelope. Lastly, the H-855.H2AL is designed for applications requiring extended motion ranges.

Depending on configuration, translational travel extends to 320 mm in X and Y and 150 mm in Z, while rotational motion extends to 120° in θZ.

A custom high-speed hexapod in motion.

Parallel Kinematics for Heavy Loads

Unlike stacked serial positioning systems, a hexapod controls all six degrees of freedom using six coordinated actuators operating between a common base and moving platform.

The parallel structure distributes loads through the complete mechanism while providing high stiffness and a favorable load-capacity-to-size ratio. It also avoids the accumulation of errors associated with stacking individual motion axes.