Development of high-precision linear actuators for six-axis mexhanism of “hexapod” type

This article considers the problem of development of a high-precision linear actuator, which can be used in six-axis mechanisms of “hexapod” type. The main goal is to study the accuracy characteristics of the linear actuators depending on a linear drive applied. Design configurations based on such drive types, as: nut screw, roller screw, ball screw, wave screw drive, flexible displacement system, are presented. The results obtained demonstrate advantages and disadvantages of the above mentioned design configurations and show basic characteristics of both manufactured and prospective linear actuators. The results obtained demonstrate the possibility of development of a linear actuator based on roller screw, which provides for minimal step width up to 0,002 mm. A prototype of this linear actuator was created and tested in the Joint-stock Company “Academician M.F. Reshetnev “Information Satellite Systems”. The results can be applied in the sphere of adjusting mechanisms of antenna-feeder devices of spacecrafts.