Compact parallel-kinematic motion systems provide six degrees of freedom in a much smaller package than conventional stacks of linear, rotary and goniometer stages. Miniature hexapods are ideal for fiber alignment, photonics packaging, microscopy, compact automation and small vacuum chambers.
Compact 6-Axis MotionFiber AlignmentPhotonicsVacuum OptionsVirtual Pivot Point
Miniature hexapods are six-axis parallel-kinematic positioning systems designed for applications where space is limited but precise multi-axis alignment is still required. Instead of stacking several individual stages, six actuators work together to move one platform in X, Y, Z, pitch, roll and yaw.
This compact architecture provides a smaller footprint, high stiffness, no moving cable loops and a software-defined pivot point. That makes miniature hexapods especially useful for optical alignment, fiber coupling, small instruments and precision manipulation inside confined machine spaces.
H-815 Compact Industrial Hexapod for 24/7 Alignment
The H-815 is a compact, robust six-axis hexapod for industrial precision applications that require continuous operation, high throughput and reliable sub-micron alignment.
Loadup to 10 kg
Repeatabilityto ±0.05 µm
Velocityto 20 mm/s
Travel±20 / ±20 / ±10 mm
Rotationto ±16°
SizeØ222 mm base, 155 mm high
Compact parallel-kinematic design for space-constrained production systems
Designed for demanding 24/7 industrial alignment processes
Absolute encoders provide position data at startup without referencing
Integrated brakes support safe handling and process reliability
Well suited for lens alignment, photonics assembly, micro-assembly, metrology and automated inspection
M-810.0A Custom Miniature Hexapod Concept with Clear Aperture
Compact six-axis hexapod variant with a clear aperture, useful for optical setups where a beam path, probe, sample or instrument feature must pass through the center of the platform.
ApertureØ59 mm
Loadto 5 kg
Travel40 x 40 x 13 mm
Rotationto 60°
Repeatabilityto ±0.5 µm
Velocityto 10 mm/s
Clear aperture for beamline, optics and sample-access applications
Resolution of a single strut 40 nm
Minimum incremental motion to 200 nm
Compact alternative to stacked six-axis stage assemblies
Miniature hexapods provide precise X, Y, Z and angular alignment for coupling light into fibers, waveguides, photonic chips and optical assemblies.
Microscopy and Life Science Instruments
Compact six-axis motion helps align samples, objectives, probes and small optical modules without the height and footprint of stacked stages.
Small Vacuum Chambers
Vacuum-compatible miniature versions are useful when chamber volume is limited and multi-axis alignment must be performed inside the vacuum environment.
Research and Precision Automation
Compact hexapods support sensor alignment, micro-assembly, test systems, metrology and laboratory automation where flexible six-axis motion is required.
Why Miniature Parallel Kinematics Helps
A miniature hexapod replaces a stack of individual X, Y, Z, rotary and tilt stages with one integrated parallel-kinematic mechanism. The result is a lower profile, reduced moving mass, higher stiffness and simplified cable management. The user can command motion in Cartesian coordinates, while the controller handles the required coordinate transformation.
Feature
Miniature Hexapod
Stacked 6-Axis Stage Assembly
Footprint
Compact integrated mechanism
Usually larger due to multiple stacked axes
Height
Low-profile for confined spaces
Height increases with each added axis
Stiffness
Loads distributed through parallel struts
Upper axes are carried by lower axes
Cable Management
No moving cable loops on the platform
Moving cables are common on upper stages
Pivot Point
Software-defined virtual pivot point
Usually fixed by mechanical stage geometry
Best Fit
Compact six-axis alignment and precision manipulation
Long travel or simple independent-axis motion
More Parallel-Kinematics 6-Axis Positioners from PI miCos
SpaceFAB Parallel-Kinematics Positioners
PImiCos offers additional parallel-kinematic six-axis positioning systems for larger travel ranges, flexible configurations and vacuum-compatible applications.
Miniature hexapod specifications vary by configuration. Consult the linked datasheets and product pages for detailed drawings, controller options and vacuum compatibility.
