Precision Positioning Hexapods

Moog’s precision positioning hexapods are utilized for 6-axis point-and-hold or slow tracking operations where superior resolution, repeatability, and/or accuracy are critical. These six degrees of freedom parallel kinematic positioners typically use a traditional Stewart platform arrangement to perform precise optical alignments and tests that are not possible with other technologies. Moog’s hexapod positioning systems employ six electromechanical linear actuators that are capable of sub-micron positioning with payloads up to 8000 kg or more.

CONTACT OUR EXPERTS >

Jump To:

Overview

Literature

Related Products

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

Precision-positioning-hexapod-stewart-platform

	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.