Hexapod H-815 for 24/7 Industrial Processes

In precision-critical manufacturing processes, the reliable and repeatable positioning of components is crucial for production success. Increasing demands on clock rates and continuous loads with high cycle rates, as well as mechanical wear and a lack of reproducibility have a detrimental effect not only on process stability, but also on productivity and quality. To meet these requirements, Physik Instrumente (PI) has added the new Industrial Hexapod H-815 to its range. This parallel-kinematic precision system with six degrees of freedom was specially developed for use in automated 24/7 industrial processes.

The H-815 features a robust, compact design and a high-precision motion control for 24/7 industrial applications. With repeatability of ±0.05 µm, a minimum step size of 50 nm and integrated absolute encoders, the Industrial Hexapod is suited for processes requiring precision and position stability. Typical applications include the assembly of lenses and camera modules, the automated alignment of optical components, positioning in cleanrooms or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) environments, as well as test and calibration processes in quality assurance.

Compact, robust and easy to integrate

“The Industrial Hexapod H-815 was developed specifically for continuous industrial use with the highest precision requirements. Thanks to its compact design, it can be easily integrated into automated 24/7 processes. The system is also characterized by its robust design and high-quality components, offering reliable durability even with a high number of working cycles. Integrated brakes and safety standards in accordance with SIL 3 support safe handling and reliable processes. Even in space-critical applications, the H-815 impresses with its high repeatability and precision, combining considerable power and speed in a compact design,” explains Christian Ziegler, Product Manager for hexapods at PI.

Reliable, precise and efficient

The parallel-kinematic system provides six controllable degrees of freedom for complex motion profiles and supports payloads of up to 10 kilograms. The customizable center of rotation ensures flexibility, enabling the hexapod motion platform to adapt to specific requirements, e.g. for alignment processes in the micrometre range. Through the use of absolute encoders, the H-815 provides position data at startup without referencing. The absolute encoders are reliable even after power failures or restarts. 

Controller and software

The H-815 is controlled via the C-887.4xx1 motion controller and the intuitive PIMikroMove software that supports simple integration and control. The controller boasts a wide range of advanced safety functions. These include SIL 3 certification and a port for connecting safety relays for safety-critical applications. The controller can be equipped with optional high-resolution, fast analog inputs, creating ideal conditions for alignment routines. An optional EtherCAT fieldbus interface is available for demanding 24/7 industrial automation applications.

(Source: Physik Instrumente (PI) GmbH & Co. KG)