Multi-Axis Positioner Using Independent Prismatic Joint Actuators

The system divides the positioning task into independent linear actuators that can be controlled separately, rather than requiring coordinated movement of all actuators as in a hexapod. Each actuator handles a specific linear dimension independently, segmenting the complex synergistic motion into simpler, manageable components.

The patent replaces the mechanical spherical joints and synergistic motion platform of a hexapod with a different mechanical architecture using linear actuators and prismatic joints. This substitution eliminates the need for complex computer algorithms to calculate motion profiles, as each actuator moves independently along its axis without requiring coordination with others.

The system uses standard, commercially available linear actuators and prismatic joints that are less expensive and more readily obtainable than custom-built hexapod components. These conventional components can be sourced from standard manufacturers, reducing the need for expensive custom machining and assembly required for high-precision hexapod spherical joints.

The patent substitutes the expensive hexapod mechanical system with a more economical arrangement of linear actuators and prismatic joints. This replacement eliminates the need for costly spherical bearings and complex control algorithms, using instead simpler, more affordable components that achieve the same positioning precision through independent linear motion control.

The patent replaces spherical joints requiring tight tolerances with prismatic joints and linear actuators that have more straightforward manufacturing requirements. Linear actuators use standard rail and slider mechanisms that can be manufactured with conventional precision, avoiding the exponentially increasing difficulty of machining spherical surfaces to submicron tolerances.

The system changes the fundamental motion parameters from rotational spherical joints to linear prismatic joints. This parameter change allows the use of standard linear motion components with well-established manufacturing processes, rather than requiring custom spherical joint fabrication with increasingly tight tolerances as positioning precision requirements improve.