Precision Positioning Hexapods

Precision positioning hexapods are used for point-and-hold or slow tracking operation where minimum incremental step size, repeatability, and/or accuracy are critical. 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 uses preloaded bearing end-joints to accommodate a relatively large range of motion. Both systems are designed for stiffness to achieve high resonant frequencies and fast settling times. Customization is commonly done to meet program-specific requirements.

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APPLICATIONS

Alignment of telescope optics
Testing of precision optical systems
Beam/laser pointing

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.