6axis

Six-axis, or 6-axis, is a term describing devices or systems with six independent axes of motion or measurement. It is commonly used in robotics, CNC machining, and inertial sensing to indicate additional reach, orientation capability, or dimensionality beyond standard three-axis motion.

In robotics and manufacturing, a six-axis robot arm employs six rotary joints that provide three translational and three rotational degrees of freedom, allowing the end effector to reach a point and orient it precisely. This enables tasks such as welding, painting, deburring, and assembling components in three-dimensional space.

In computer numerical controlled machining, a 6-axis machine extends a three-axis (X, Y, Z) system with three rotary axes (often labeled A, B, C). This configuration can orient the cutting tool or the workpiece, reducing fixturing, enabling complex surface access, and improving efficiency.

In sensing and navigation, 6-axis typically refers to an inertial measurement unit that combines a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis gyroscope to measure linear acceleration and angular rate. Such units are common in smartphones, wearables, drones, and automotive applications; magnetometers may complete a 9-axis suite.

The use of the term 6-axis is not fully standardized; it can denote six DOF motion, six sensors, or six actuated axes depending on the context and manufacturer. Users should review device specifications to understand which axes are actuated, measured, and how they are configured.