H-855 High-load hexapod

The modular H-855 high-load hexapod is a high-precision 6-axis positioning system designed for industrial automation, optics, semiconductor technology, aerospace, and simulation applications with payloads of up to 500 kg. Its modular architecture combines sub-micron accuracy, high load capacity, and customizable travel ranges and dynamic performance, enabling reliable positioning even under demanding operating conditions.

Fields of application

To deliver the optimal solution for specific customer applications, the H-855 is available in four optimized product variants, each tailored to different performance priorities:

• The standard H-855.H2A model is optimized for high precision and payloads up to 500 kg. This makes it ideal for demanding positioning and alignment tasks involving heavy components.

• The 'fastest' version (H-855.G2A0B) was developed for high-throughput applications and achieves velocities of up to 10 mm/s. Its integrated brake enhances process reliability and ensures a stable holding position, making it ideal for dynamic industrial processes where cycle time is critical.

• The 'smallest' version (H-855.H2AC) features a compact design with folded legs, reduced installation height, and smaller upper and lower platform dimensions. This enables integration into systems with limited installation space as well as laboratory environments.

• For applications that require larger motion ranges, the version with the maximum travel range (H-855.H2AL) offers extended translational and rotational travel. It enables particularly flexible positioning and is suitable for demanding simulation tasks.

Within the modular architecture, custom variants can be created to tailor the hexapod to specific requirements.

Technology

The H-855 is based on a parallel-kinematic hexapod design, where 6 coordinated actuators simultaneously control motion along all translational and rotational axes. This architecture enables highly dynamic and precise positioning while efficiently distributing mechanical loads throughout the system. Compared with conventional serial-kinematic positioning systems, the parallel structure delivers higher stiffness, a better load-capacity-to-size ratio, and reduced cumulative positioning errors.

The H-855 hexapod uses brushless DC gear motors in combination with absolute rotary encoders. This guarantees stable motion control and reliable position feedback. Since the rotary encoders provide absolute position data immediately after power-up, no referencing or homing move is required. This reduces startup time and enhances operational reliability in automated environments.

Another technological advantage is the scalable modular architecture. Within the same system architecture, various actuator configurations, gear ratios, travel ranges, and geometries can be combined. This allows the hexapod to be optimized for specific applications without having to redesign the entire product. Users can configure velocity, compactness, travel range, holding force, and payload capacity according to the specific requirements of each application.

Electronics and software

Controller: C-887.5x0

Software: PIMikroMove

Important note regarding the H-855: The hexapod has a separate power supply, as the motors require more power than the controller can provide.