Universal Robots collaborative robots are programmed and configured through PolyScope, their graphical programming interface. A URCap, short for Universal Robots Capability, is a software extension that integrates into PolyScope to add new functions, interfaces and programming options.
A URCap can simplify the integration of external hardware, add specific robot commands, create customised programming screens or adapt the robot interface to a particular industrial process. In PolyScope 5, URCaps are traditionally developed as Java-based plugins using the Universal Robots URCaps SDK. Universal Robots also provides a dedicated development environment for PolyScope X.
This makes it possible to extend the standard capabilities of a Universal Robots cobot without requiring operators to work continuously with external software or unfamiliar programming environments.
what can a urcap do?
Depending on the application, a URCap can add different elements to the PolyScope interface.
Installation nodes
Installation nodes are used to configure the general settings of an application. They can include parameters related to end effectors, external axes, conveyors, communication systems or coordinate systems.
These settings normally apply to the entire robot installation and can be reused across different programs.
Program nodes
Program nodes add specific commands to the robot program.
For example, a program node can instruct the robot to:
- Move to a defined position
- Open or close a gripper
- Activate an external device
- Move an additional axis
- Execute a predefined sequence
- Capture or transfer process data
The operator can add these commands to the program tree alongside the standard PolyScope nodes.
Toolbars
A URCap can add a toolbar to PolyScope, giving operators direct access to specific functions.
A toolbar can be useful for manually controlling a device, checking its status or accessing frequently used commands without modifying the robot program.
Background processes
URCaps can use daemon processes that run in the background and communicate with external hardware, services or applications.
These processes can support functions such as device communication, data acquisition or external software integration.
Program templates
A URCap can combine its own nodes with standard PolyScope nodes to create predefined program structures.
These templates can simplify repetitive operations such as picking, palletising, packaging or machine tending.
variables and script functions
For more advanced applications, URCaps can add variables and functions that can be used within PolyScope programs and URScript expressions.
Universal Robots identifies installation nodes, program nodes, toolbars, daemon processes, program templates, variables and script functions as some of the main contributions available through the URCap API.
Why use a URCap in an industrial application?
A URCap allows the robot interface to be adapted to the requirements of a particular process, device or operator.
Depending on the application, it can help to:
- Simplify robot configuration
- Reduce repetitive programming tasks
- Integrate tools and external equipment
- Create more intuitive operator interfaces.
- Standardise programming procedures.
- Manage several devices from the robot’s Teach Pendant.
- Reduce the need to switch between different software environments.
The main advantage is not simply adding more functions, but making those functions accessible from the interface already used to operate the robot.
URCap development for universal robots at nutai
At NUTAI, we develop software and integration solutions for Universal Robots collaborative robots.
Our solutions are designed to simplify robot programming, control external devices and improve the interaction between operators and their cobots.
cobotvnc
CobotVNC is a URCap that enables remote access to a Universal Robots cobot through a VNC-compatible device connected to the same local network.
It allows users to view the robot’s Teach Pendant, remotely control and program the robot and transfer files between the robot and the connected device.
Mad Controller
MAD Controller is a URCap developed to control external FESTO axes directly from the Universal Robots Teach Pendant.
It allows operators to configure and move up to four additional axes to predefined positions without requiring an external PLC or HMI for this control task. It can be used with compatible rotary or linear axes to extend the working range of the cobot.
recdrive
RECDrive is a hardware and software solution that enables operators to capture robot points and trajectories manually or automatically without using the Teach Pendant during the recording process.
A physical button allows the operator to guide the cobot and register positions or complete trajectories more directly.
Do you need a URCap for your Universal Robots application?
At NUTAI, we develop URCaps and integration solutions adapted to specific industrial processes and equipment.
Tell us what device, software or operation you need to integrate with your Universal Robots cobot. Our technical team will evaluate the application, compatibility requirements and the most suitable development approach.
