Bras robotique UFactory

UFactory: affordable, high-performance robotic arms for teaching and research

In a laboratory or university, talking about robotic equipment often raises the same question: “Do we have the budget?“

 

Many robotic arms are high-performance…but remain out of reach for an educational department or research centre.

 

With its Lite 6 and xArm 6 models, UFactory proves that it is possible to combine reliability, software openness and affordable prices, while remaining suited to educational needs and applied research projects.

What teachers and researchers appreciate

What comes up most often in feedback is not only precision or ROS compatibility, but also how easily these arms can be integrated into an existing project:

  • Programming in Python, C++ and via ROS/ROS 2, with official packages for xArm (demos, 3D models, simulators)
  • Open APIs and detailed developer manuals for quick connection of your code.
  • Quick installation & compact format, can be mounted on a workbench or mobile platform.
  • No need to rearrange the entire lab to use them

The result: your students quickly move from code to robot, and you can prototype manipulations in a few sessions instead of a semester.

Robotic Arm Guide Banner

Two models, two approaches

Lite 6

Lightweight (8 kg), accurate to ±0.05 mm, with a reach of 440 mm and a payload of 600 g. The Lite 6 is ideal for introductory robotics, ROS training and light manipulation.

xArm

More versatile, with a reach of 700 mm, a payload of 5 kg and an accuracy of ±0.1 mm. Perfect for more complex experimental projects or tests requiring more reach and manipulation capability.

Both are ROS/ROS2 compatible, the essential standard for academic robotics.

Examples of applications in an academic or research setting

Lite 6

  • Practical work in robotics and automation
  • Interdisciplinary projects combining vision, AI and robotics
  • Rapid prototyping: handling small parts, sensors or modules
  • Training in the basics of programming and ROS
Learn more about Lite 6

xARM 6

  • Applied research projects requiring greater reach and payload
  • Handling of various objects for experiments in real-world conditions
  • Advanced computer vision and autonomous control testing
  • Practical work in collaborative robotics with complex scenarios
Learn more about xARM

An inspiring example: Carnegie Mellon's autonomous reforestation robot

In May 2025, Appleseed Labs (Kantor Lab, Carnegie Mellon University) won the Excellence in Regenerative Agriculture Award for an autonomous robot designed to plant trees in natural environments. Equipped with an xArm 6, the system drills into the ground, delicately picks up seedlings and places them in the optimal position using a reinforcement learning model. This choice illustrates the versatility of the xArm 6 robotic arm.

How to choose

  • Lite 6: the ideal choice if you are looking for a compact, precise and economical arm for training, practical work and light prototyping.
  • xArm 6: the right choice if your projects require more reach, a higher payload and greater precision.

A range of robots tested and approved by Génération Robots

Our engineers put the xArm 6 through its paces with several objects: an ecocup, a water bottle and an Ouster LiDAR. Equipped with the Bio Gripper G2, its interchangeable and customisable fingers offer great gripping flexibility, easily adapting to a variety of uses.

Quick comparison

Lite 6 xArm (xArm 6)
Degrees of freedom
6
6
Maximum payload
600 g
5 kg
Range
440 mm
700 mm
Maximum speed.
0.5 m/s
1 m/s
Accuracy
±0,05 mm
±0,1 mm
Weight
8 kg
12,5 kg
ROS compatibility
Yes (ROS / ROS2)
Yes (ROS / ROS2)
Interface
Python, C++, Blockly, UFactory Studio
Python, C++, Blockly, UFactory Studio
Price
From €3,000 (excluding VAT)
From €5,300 (excluding VAT)

In summary

For teaching robotics, training students in ROS or conducting applied research projects, UFactory’s Lite 6 and xArm 6 are reliable, compact and easy-to-integrate allies.

 

They enable universities and laboratories to offer practical and motivating experiences, while staying within a controlled budget.

Marine Senecat, Content Manager chez Génération Robots

Marine Senecat

Content Manager at Génération Robots