Learn URPLUS-MODULES with Real Code Examples

Updated Nov 27, 2025

Explain

UR+ Modules provide plug-and-play functionality for Universal Robots, ensuring compatibility and easy integration.

They include pre-tested drivers and software to simplify robot programming and deployment.

Modules cover hardware components like grippers, sensors, and tool changers, as well as software solutions for vision and process optimization.

Certified UR+ modules reduce integration risks and accelerate deployment for industrial automation.

They support URScript and Polyscope programming for consistent robot behavior across applications.

Core Features

Hardware modules: grippers, sensors, tool changers

Software modules: vision, path planning, task automation

UR+ certified for seamless UR integration

Easy installation and configuration

Remote monitoring and diagnostics in some modules

Basic Concepts Overview

URCap - software plug-in that integrates module features into Polyscope

IO Node - interface for electrical or pneumatic signals

End-of-arm tooling (EOAT) - hardware attached to robot arm

Vision module - camera system for robot guidance or inspection

URScript - scripting language for controlling UR robots programmatically

Project Structure

UR robot program in Polyscope

UR+ module hardware installed on robot

URCap software modules installed on robot controller

I/O connections and configuration files

Test scripts and program routines for module operation

Building Workflow

Identify automation task requirements

Select appropriate UR+ hardware and/or software module

Install and configure module on UR robot

Integrate module functionality into robot program via Polyscope or URScript

Test and optimize performance in target application

Difficulty Use Cases

Beginner: Simple gripper or sensor integration

Intermediate: Vision-assisted pick-and-place

Advanced: Multi-module coordination with force feedback

Expert: Custom task automation combining multiple UR+ modules

Architect: Full industrial workcell design with UR robots and UR+ ecosystem

Comparisons

UR+ Modules vs Custom Hardware: certified, pre-tested, faster deployment

UR+ Modules vs Non-certified add-ons: guaranteed compatibility with UR robots

UR+ Modules vs Full Automation Solutions: UR+ targets flexible, small-to-medium scale automation

UR+ Modules vs Manual Programming: pre-configured software simplifies integration

UR+ Modules vs Third-party generic EOAT: optimized for collaborative, lightweight applications

Versioning Timeline

2016 - Launch of UR+ program for certified accessories

2018 - Expansion to include software URCaps and vision systems

2019 - Addition of advanced EOAT and force/torque modules

2021 - Integration with URSim simulation environment

2023 - Improved URCap development tools and certification process

2024 - Expansion of partner ecosystem for industry-specific modules

2025 - Continuous updates to module certification, software, and integration tools

Glossary

UR+ Module - Plug-and-play hardware or software extension for UR cobots

URCap - Software add-on installed on UR robot controller

Polyscope - Graphical interface for programming UR robots

EOAT - Tooling attached to robot end-effector

URScript - Scripting language for UR robot control