Product category:
Positioning stages - linear, rotary, multi-axis
News Release from: PI (Physik Instrumente) | Subject: 'Hexapod' 6-axis parallel kinematics systems
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 11 September 2007
'Hexapods' to simplify complex
positioning
'Hexapod' 6-axis precision parallel kinematics systems replace a stacked series of stages, as describd in a brochure that also includes positioners and robots featuring sub-micrometer resolution.
A leading manufacturer of precision sensors and motion-control equipment for optics/photonics, nano/biotechnology, semiconductor and life science applications, PI (Physik Instrumente) is offering a brochure on 'Hexapod Six-Axis Parallel Kinematics Robots and Positioning Systems' The Hexapod system consists of a six-legged parallel kinematics mechanics ('Stewart Platform') and a dedicated control electronics, controls motion in six axes
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 6 Jul 2006 at 8.00am (UK)
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It provides a number of unique features when compared to a stacked series of stages.
The advantages of parallel kinematics (PKM) systems over standard (stacked) serial kinematics stages include the following.
* Programmable pivot point for simple rotational alignment tasks.
* Lower inertia and higher stiffness.
* Better dynamic behavior.
* Smaller package size.
* No accumulation of position errors or reduced runout errors.
* No moving cables for better repeatability and reliability.
The brochure presents a variety of standard and custom hexapod systems, featuring sub-micrometer resolution, and load capacities from 2kg to 1000kg.
PI has been designing and manufacturing hexapod positioning robots since the early 1990's.
Today, standard hexapod designs come in all shapes and sizes and include servo motor-driven systems for moving large optics up to 1 m diameter to piezo based designs for nanometer precise control of semiconductor wafers and masks.
Standard and custom systems are available in non-magnetic and vacuum compatible versions.
These parallel motion systems are designed for applications in fields such as follows.
* Optics and photonics, telecommunication.
* Astronomy/aerospace.
* Biotechnology.
* Semiconductor test and handling.
* Microscopy.
* About PI - PI is the industry leader in ultra-precision motion control devices for nanoscale manufacturing, test and research applications.
PI has been developing and manufacturing standard and custom precision products with piezoelectric and electromagnetic drives for 35+ years.
The company has been ISO 9001 certified since 1994 and provides innovative, high-quality solutions for OEM and research.
PI is present worldwide with eight subsidiaries and total staff of 450+. Request a free brochure from PI (Physik Instrumente) ...
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