Bosch Rexroth expands ctrlX AUTOMATION

Industrial automation is becoming increasingly software-centric, connected and enhanced by Artificial Intelligence. Bosch Rexroth is driving this change with the open automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION and is now introducing a number of new features. These include extensive additions to the hardware portfolio, AI functionalities, a software-based safety solution, new apps in the ctrlX OS Store, as well as preconfigured solution sets.

Bosch Rexroth’s goal with its automation solution ctrlX AUTOMATION comprising hardware, software and apps, is to significantly simplify automation – for shorter project lead times and faster time to value. The latest innovations underpin this goal.

Hardware expansions for ctrlX AUTOMATION – AI functions added to the controls
The control platform ctrlX COREplus is now available with AI functions at all performance levels. An optional AI module enables efficient integration of Artificial Intelligence directly at the edge, enabling data to be processed and evaluated locally. In addition, ctrlX COREplus now offers increased computing power for AI and vision applications, as well as more memory and storage capacity for local data handling and additional communication options.

At the same time, scalable IPCs with an NVIDIA 2000A GPU increase computing and image processing power for demanding vision and AI workloads at the edge. Furthermore, IPCs with integrated ctrlX OS are now available. And the new line-up of HMIs offers double the performance with a smaller footprint.

The ctrlX I/O portfolio is being expanded with 23 new modules, opening up extended application options in automation and infrastructure.

The ctrlX DRIVE portfolio is also growing to include more compact, more energy-efficient, cabinet-free and highly modular variants. This means that drives are available to meet almost all individual requirements.

The ctrlX FLOW family, which offers various motion systems for intralogistics, is also being enhanced. The planar system ctrlX FLOW6D now has a smaller mover size and the linear motion system ctrlX FLOWHS sees the addition of a switch for specific topologies and arrangements.

Safety PLC as an app for functional safety
With the new “Safety PLC” app, Bosch Rexroth is now making functional safety hardware-independent. Until now, safety functions in machines required a second CPU to ensure redundancy. Now these functions can be integrated directly into existing controllers such as the ctrlX CORE. This is made possible by the multi-core capability of modern processors, which ensure redundant processing. For users, this means greater flexibility with significantly reduced space requirements and costs.

New apps in the ctrlX OS Store
The ecosystem that surrounds the open operating system ctrlX OS is constantly being expanded with new apps. The ctrlX OS Store already boasts a total of 86 apps. The wide selection of products ranges from IoT and communication solutions to innovative vision and engineering apps. When it comes to security, the new Security Scanner provides the option of conducting a complete inventory of machines at the network level during acceptance and having the security status of the whole machine park assessed. Potential attack vectors can thus be identified and addressed at an early stage.

Practical complete solutions with solution sets
A further focus of the innovations is on preconfigured complete solutions. These solution sets combine optimally coordinated hardware and software components, thereby reducing integration risks and project runtimes.

AI assistance for engineering and support
In addition to hardware and software functions, Bosch Rexroth is also expanding the services that accompany ctrlX AUTOMATION. An AI virtual assistant, “Ask iXi,” will be available in time for the SPS 2025 trade fair. It is integrated into both the website and the ctrlX WORKS engineering tool. It answers questions about products, functions and documentation around the clock, and supports users in both the decision-making phase and with day-to-day engineering tasks.