Franka Research 3 (FR3)
The World’s Most Sensitive Robotic Arm for AI & Robotics Labs
Franka Research 3 Overview
The The Franka Research 3 (FR3) is a high-performance, force-sensitive robotic arm built for advanced research, AI, and robotics development. Engineered and manufactured in Germany, FR3 offers an unmatched combination of precision, responsiveness, and versatility. TÜV certified for human-robot collaboration, it is ideal for labs, research institutes, and industries pushing the boundary of robot learning, force control, and dexterous manipulation.
With 7 degrees of freedom, integrated torque sensors in all joints, and a 1 kHz motion control loop, FR3 gives researchers both low-level access and intuitive interfaces for rapid prototyping. It supports ROS 2, MATLAB & Simulink, and includes various control modalities. If you need high sensitivity, tight spacing operation, and powerful performance in a compact space, FR3 excels.
Features & Benefits
7-DOF Arm with Human-like Dexterity
Enables motions within tight, constrained spaces; FR3 offers more flexibility for dexterous tasks and complex trajectories.
High Integrated Sensitivity
Torque sensors in all joints allow precise estimates of external contact forces; FR3 is excellent for force control, compliant manipulation, or delicate assembly tasks.
Real-Time, High-Frequency Motion Control (1 kHz)
Enables rapid control loops; FR3 is suitable for research relying on high responsiveness and minimal lag.
Multiple Control Interfaces
Varying levels: Desk (UI / easier prototyping), Ride (experimental setups), FR3 FCI (Franka Control Interface) for low-level, real-time control — flexibility depending on use case.
Open Ecosystem & Strong Community Support
Compatible with ROS 2, MATLAB & Simulink; FR3 has broad developer tools, documentation, add-ons, and an active research community.
Certifications & Safety
TÜV certified for human-robot collaboration; FR3 meets ISO standards (e.g. ISO 10218, ISO 13849), enabling safer research / industrial deployments.
Workspace Efficiency & Precision
Excellent workspace usage (~94.5%), FR3 reach of about 855 mm; repeatability of ±0.1 mm makes it reliable for precise tasks.
| Payload | 3 kg |
|---|---|
| Reach | ~ 855 mm |
| Degrees of Freedom | 7-DOF |
| Workspace Efficiency | ~ 94.5 % |
| Position Repeatability | ± 0.1 mm |
| Control Loop Frequency | 1 kHz |
| Integrated Sensors | Torque sensors in each joint; force / contact sensing capabilities |
| Certifications | ISO 10218, ISO 13849; TÜV certified for human-robot collaboration |
| Interface Support | FCI (low-level), ROS 2, MATLAB & Simulink, Desk / Ride modes |
Franka Research 3 Applications
Robotics & AI Research Labs
For experiments in manipulation, learning by contact / force feedback, trajectory optimization, grasping, etc.
Human-Robot Interaction Studies
Thanks to joint torque sensing and safety certifications, suitable for research in collaboration or shared workspace settings.
Industrial Automation & Prototyping
For highly precise assembly, inspection, polishing, or other tasks where dexterity and fine force control matter.
Education & Advanced Robotics Training
As a teaching platform offering both high-level usability and low-level control, excellent for graduate courses, robotics labs.
Simulation & Algorithm Development
Use in simulation (e.g. Mujoco), virtual test benches, development of control algorithms before hardware deployment. FR3 supports robust integration with software toolchains.
Integration & Support
Control Interfaces & APIs
Desk UI for prototyping; FCI for low-level control including joint torque / velocity / position; integration with ROS 2, MATLAB, and external custom controllers.
Safety Systems & Hardware Compliance
Built-in torque sensors, compliant with standards; internal safety supervision to avoid self-damage; emergency stop options; built for safe collaboration.
Tools & Add-Ons
Support for simulation tools, add-ons for performance (e.g. improved API support, joint calibration), hardware accessories; over-the-air updates keep the system current.
Maintenance, Warranty & Support
German build quality; documentation and datasheets; EdNex Automation can provide import, setup, calibration, spare parts sourcing, and local after-sales support for the region.
