With the HEX150-125HL, Aerotech is launching the latest generation of its hexapod technology. The compact six-axis positioner combines precise movements with high load capacity and simple integration. The optimised design also offers excellent repeatability and minimal increments down to the nanometre range.
The HEX150-125HL was developed for maximum precision in positioning. Its sophisticated design with simplified cabling and improved kinematics enables outstanding dynamics and accuracy. With a maximum payload of 12 kg and movement ranges of up to 30 mm linear or 30° rotary per axis, the miniature hexapod is suitable for demanding industrial and scientific applications.
Thanks to its robust, rigid parallel kinematic design it is particularly robust and ideal for automation solutions. Users from industries such as electronics, photonics, automotive, mechanical engineering and medical technology benefit from its high precision and dynamics, especially in quality assurance and metrology.
Simon Smith, European director at Aerotech, emphasises: “The HEX150-125HL has been developed to enable more precise, fast and flexible movements in confined spaces. With its combination of compact design, powerful control and easy integration, it offers an outstanding solution for a wide range of high-tech applications.”
Flexible integration into existing systems
Its compact design with a simplified two-cable solution makes integration into research and production environments much easier. An optional mounting plate allows easy attachment to optical tables or breadboards. The 35 mm openings in the platform and base improve access to the workpiece and provide space for additional cables and hoses.
Powerful controls and intuitive software
The precise Aerotech motion controllers, which have won many awards for their performance, ensure maximum precision and user-friendliness. They support programming in multiple coordinate systems and offer an intuitive user interface. Real-time visualisation and simulation tools facilitate the optimisation of motion sequences. The HexGen software also simplifies the simulation of the working area and possible motion sequences.
Efficient motion control with drive technology
The HEX150-125HL can be operated with the new XA4-DC-AX2 and AX4 servo drives from Aerotech. These compact single and multi-axis drives are suitable for control cabinet installation and are part of the user-friendly Automation1 platform. The platform enables precise system configuration and control via a software-based motion controller.
The XA drives support various feedback systems and have an on-board memory for high-speed data acquisition and process control. With the Automation1 controller, up to twelve HyperWire motion axes can be controlled and up to nine user tasks can be executed simultaneously. The HEX150-125HL can be flexibly mounted in a 48 cm rack, under a machine base or on another panel.
Wide range of applications and flexible scalability
The HEX150-125HL is the ideal solution for applications with the highest positioning accuracy requirements. Typical applications include:
• Optics testing, alignment and bonding.
• Manipulation of photonic systems.
• Optical wafer inspection.
• Test procedures in the aerospace industry.
• Electro-optical testing and qualification.
• Manipulation of synchrotron and beamline samples.
In addition to use in laboratory environments, the HEX150-125HL also offers great potential for automated production. With speeds of up to 30 mm/s and 30°/s, it optimises throughput times in industrial processes. Its robust design ensures reliable performance, even during years of continuous operation.
Highest precision for modern applications
“This powerful and versatile miniature hexapod is characterised by precision, compactness and simple integration. Our customers benefit from simple implementation, maximum repeatability and flexible integration options,” concludes Smith.
Headquartered in Pittsburgh, USA, Aerotech develops and manufactures the world’s most powerful motion control and positioning systems for customers in industry, science and research. In the spirit of a family business, the owners continue to attach the utmost importance to open and trusting relationships with customers, business partners and employees. The company’s innovative and high-precision motion solutions fulfil all the critical requirements needed for today’s demanding applications. They are used wherever high throughput is required, including in medical technology, semiconductor and flat screen production, photonics, automotive, data storage, laser processing, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing, inspection, testing and assembly.
Thanks to modern analysis and diagnostic capacities, Aerotech provides first-class technical support and service worldwide. If a standard product is not suitable for an individual application, the manufacturer is able to supply specialised motion components and systems based on its many years of expertise and experience. The manufacturing capacity for customised applications is complemented by experience in the supply of systems for vacuum and clean room operation.
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