Sponsored by MKS NewportReviewed by Olivia FrostAug 28 2026
A hexapod is a parallel kinematic motion device with six degrees of freedom (X, Y, Z, pitch, roll, and yaw). Hexapods are innovative and effective solutions for complex motion applications that require high load capacity and accuracy across up to six independent axes.
NewportTM hexapods are powered by six industry-proven, high-performance actuators that build on MKS Newport's 55 years of actuator expertise.
The quality of the actuator has a significant impact on a hexapod's total motion performance, as do the 12 joints that connect the actuators to both the base plate and the moving top plate.
Accepting this challenge, MKS Newport’s engineers developed revolutionary joint designs that are substantially more rigid than standard universal joints.
As a result, the hexapod is more rigid and has a larger load capacity than previous hexapods of the same size. Newport hexapods are high-performance motion devices that are incredibly inexpensive and simple to use.
Image Credit: MKS Newport
Six DOF Motion Positioners
- Integrated, compact six-axis positioner
- Lightweight but stiff (especially in z)
- No moving cables
- No accumulation of motion faults
- Software sets two virtual centers of rotation
- Load capacity ranges from 50 to 4500 N (centered)
- Available in both vacuum (10-6 hPa) and high-accuracy variants
Image Credit: MKS Newport
This information has been sourced, reviewed, and adapted from materials provided by MKS Newport.
For more information on this source, please visit MKS Newport.