PI (Physik Instrumente) is a privately owned global leader in precision motion control, automation, and robotic positioning systems. For more than 50 years, PI has designed and manufactured world-class motion solutions, including high-precision hexapod robots, Cartesian gantry systems, linear motor stages, air bearings, and piezo-based positioning technologies. With engineering and manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia, PI employs more than 1,900 people in 15 countries and serves leading companies and research organizations worldwide.
PI's motion and automation technologies are used in a wide range of industries, including semiconductor manufacturing, photonics, medical technology, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and industrial robotics. The company's precision robotic solutions help customers improve accuracy, throughput, and process reliability in demanding applications such as assembly automation, laser material processing, optical alignment, metrology, inspection, additive manufacturing, and electronics production.
A key area of expertise is PI's family of 6-axis hexapod robots, which provide six degrees of freedom of motion in a compact parallel-kinematic design. Hexapods combine sub-micron precision with exceptional stiffness, dynamic performance, and positioning flexibility, making them ideal for tasks requiring simultaneous translation and rotation. Applications range from precision assembly and machine calibration to optics alignment, sensor testing, and aerospace component positioning.
PI also offers a broad portfolio of 3-axis gantry and Cartesian robots, delivering large travel ranges, high load capacities, and excellent positional accuracy. These linear robot systems provide a flexible platform for automated manufacturing, pick-and-place operations, dispensing, inspection, and material handling. Available as standardized products or fully customized solutions, PI's gantry platforms enable OEMs and machine builders to create high-performance automation systems tailored to their specific requirements.
With extensive in-house engineering expertise and a broad portfolio of proven motion technologies, PI can rapidly adapt existing solutions or develop fully customized automation platforms. From individual motion axes and robot controllers to complete multi-axis robotic subsystems, PI provides the precision, reliability, and application knowledge required to help customers accelerate innovation, increase productivity, and gain a competitive advantage in today's highly automated manufacturing environment.