Precision Positioning Hexapods
The HX-P400 incorporates flexure end-joints and absolute linear encoders on each actuator to optimize repeatability and accuracy. The HX-P500 is vacuum-compatible and utilizes preloaded bearing end-joints to accommodate a large range of motion. Both 6-DOF precision positioning stages are designed for extremely high stiffness to achieve high resonant frequencies and fast settling times often required for telescope secondary mirror positioners and similar large optical alignment applications. Customization of Moog’s hexapod positioning systems is commonly performed to meet program-specific requirements.
APPLICATIONS
- Alignment of telescope optics
- Testing of precision optical systems
- Beam/laser pointing
- Telescope secondary mirror positioner
- Synchrotron component alignment
Performance Characteristics
| HX-P400 | HX-P500 | |
| Payload mass | Up to 8000 kg | Up to 8000 kg |
| Dimensions1 | 1650 mm D x 720 mm H | 2000 mm L x 2000 mm W x 810 mm H |
| Hexapod mass | 625 kg | 684 kg |
Range of motion2
| HX-P400 | HX-P500 | |
| X (lateral) | ±20 mm | ±100 mm |
| Y (longitudinal) | ±20 mm | ±100 mm |
| Z (vertical) | ±15 mm | ±85 mm |
| Roll | ±1.2˚ | ±7.0˚ |
| Pitch | ±1.2˚ | ±7.0˚ |
| Yaw | ±0.5˚ | ±5.2˚ |
Minimum incremental step size
| HX-P400 | HX-P500 | |
| X (lateral) | 1 μm | 3 μm |
| Y (longitudinal) | 1 μm | 3 μm |
| Z (vertical) | 1 μm | 3 μm |
| Roll | <1 μrad | 1 μrad |
| Pitch | <1 μrad | 1 μrad |
| Yaw | 1 μrad | 1 μrad |
Repeatability (bidirectional)3
| HX-P400 | HX-P500 | |
| X (lateral) | 10 μm | 15 μm |
| Y (longitudinal) | 10 μm | 15 μm |
| Z (vertical) | 3 μm | 15 μm |
| Roll | 3 μrad | 3 μrad |
| Pitch | 3 μrad | 3 μrad |
| Yaw | 10 μrad | 15 μrad |
| HX-P400 | HX-P500 | |
| Actuation type | Brushless motor-driven roller screw | Brushless motor-driven roller screw |
| Sensor type | Absolute linear encoder | Rotary encoder |
| End-joint type | Flexures | Preloaded Bearings |
| Vacuum-compatibility | w/ customization | Yes |
| Heritage usage | Rubin Observatory/Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) | James Webb Space Telescope testing |
1. Envelope dimensions and interfaces are typically customized to meet program-specific requirements
2. The ranges of motion of the six axes are interdependent. Listed values represent the maximum range with all other axes at their zero positions and the center of rotation at the center of the payload interface.
3. Unidirectional repeatability is typically 3X-5X smaller than bidirectional repeatability.
