Hexapods can be used for several functions. These are distinguished by the desired motion of the object being supported (zero or something else), the frequency range of interest, and whether the hexapod performs a central function or one that supports testing of some other system.

Precision Positioning and Pointing
Positioning of a payload in one or more axes is the most common use for hexapods. This may be described as

• Holding a given pose or position despite other base inputs

• Moving periodically to prescribed locations – positions and angles

• Following specific nonzero commands and trajectories

Vibration Isolation
Hexapods are most appropriate when there are multiple axes of vibration disturbance and multiple axes in which vibration must be reduced. Hexapod vibration isolation systems can

• Be active or entirely passive (no external power supplied)

• Reduce vibration on a sensitive component or instrument in the presence of base input vibration

• Reduce vibration and high frequency forces from a vibrating machine to a base structure

Motion Simulation
This function is closely related to positioning, but the typical uses are

• Input of prescribed motions into a payload as part of a test program that determines performance for that payload

• Other product testing including tests of the integrity of a payload