UR3e
Compact collaborative robot for precise tabletop automation
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The UR3e is Universal Robots' smallest collaborative robot arm designed for light assembly tasks and automated workbench scenarios. With a 3 kg payload capacity and 500 mm reach, it excels at precision tasks requiring high repeatability in confined spaces. Ideal for electronics assembly, quality inspection, small parts handling, and laboratory automation where space is limited.
Released: 2018
Overview
The UR3e is the most compact member of Universal Robots' e-Series collaborative robot family, designed specifically for applications where workspace is limited but precision is paramount. Launched as part of the e-Series generation, it represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor with enhanced force/torque sensitivity, improved safety features, and intuitive programming capabilities that make automation accessible to manufacturers of all sizes.
Built on Universal Robots' proven collaborative robot platform, the UR3e can work safely alongside human operators without safety caging, thanks to its built-in safety features and force-limiting technology. Its lightweight 11.2 kg design and compact footprint make it easily deployable on workbenches and production tables, while its 500 mm reach and ±360-degree rotation on all joints provide exceptional flexibility for tabletop automation tasks.
The UR3e combines precision, ease of use, and versatility in a small package, making it ideal for manufacturers looking to automate intricate tasks that require human-level dexterity. With tool I/O, communication interfaces, and compatibility with hundreds of end-effectors and accessories, the UR3e can be quickly adapted to diverse applications across multiple industries.
Key Features
- Collaborative Safety: Built-in force sensing and safety features enable safe human-robot collaboration without protective caging
- High Precision: ±0.03 mm repeatability ensures consistent quality in assembly and inspection tasks
- Compact Footprint: 500 mm reach and 11.2 kg weight ideal for tabletop deployment in space-constrained environments
- Easy Programming: Intuitive teach pendant and PolyScope software with graphical interface requires minimal training
- Tool I/O Integration: Built-in tool communication ports support easy integration of grippers, sensors, and end-effectors
- Fast Deployment: Average setup time of less than one hour from unpacking to first task
- Flexible Mounting: Can be mounted in any orientation (floor, wall, ceiling) for maximum deployment flexibility
Applications
The UR3e excels in light assembly operations across electronics manufacturing, medical device production, and consumer goods industries. Common applications include precision pick-and-place tasks, screw driving, small parts assembly, gluing and dispensing, quality inspection with vision systems, and laboratory sample handling. Its compact size makes it particularly valuable in cleanroom environments and facilities where floor space is at a premium.
Manufacturers use the UR3e for tasks such as circuit board testing, packaging of small products, machine tending for CNC machines and injection molding equipment, and polishing or finishing operations on delicate components. The robot's collaborative nature allows it to work in close proximity to human workers, handling repetitive precision tasks while operators focus on higher-value activities, making it a versatile solution for optimizing production efficiency in both high-volume and high-mix manufacturing scenarios.
Technical Highlights
The UR3e features advanced force/torque sensing integrated into every joint, enabling unprecedented sensitivity for collaborative applications and complex assembly tasks requiring touch feedback. The e-Series control box provides real-time monitoring and safety functions with configurable safety zones, tool orientation limits, and force thresholds that meet the latest ISO/TS 15066 collaborative robot safety standards. The robot's six rotating joints each offer ±360-degree rotation, with joint speeds up to 180 degrees per second, providing the flexibility needed for complex motion paths in confined spaces.
The UR3e's architecture includes an integrated tool flange with pneumatic and electrical pass-throughs, enabling seamless integration of pneumatic grippers, electric grippers, and intelligent end-effectors. With TCP/IP, Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP communication protocols supported, the robot easily integrates into existing factory automation ecosystems. Universal Robots' open software platform and URCaps ecosystem provide access to hundreds of plug-and-play accessories and software solutions, while native ROS support enables advanced users to develop custom applications and integrate sophisticated sensors and AI capabilities.
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