Industrial automation is becoming increasingly software-centric and networked, with artificial intelligence increasingly playing a central role. Bosch Rexroth is also driving this change forward with its open automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION and is now introducing a series of innovations. These include extensive enhancements to the hardware portfolio, AI functionalities, a software-based safety solution, new apps in the ctrlX OS Store, and preconfigured solution sets.

AI flows into controllers

The modular ctrlX COREplus controller is now available with AI functions at all performance levels. An optional AI module enables efficient integration of artificial intelligence directly at the edge, allowing 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 for local data handling and additional communication options.

Expanded applications in automation and infrastructure

At the same time, scalable IPCs with NVIDIA 2000A GPUs are designed to increase computing and image processing performance for demanding vision and AI workloads at the edge. IPCs with the integrated ctrlX OS operating system are now also available. And according to Bosch Rexroth, the new line-up of HMIs offers twice the performance and a smaller footprint. In addition, the ctrlX I/O portfolio is growing by 23 new modules, which are intended to open up expanded application possibilities in automation and infrastructure.

Drives for virtually all individual requirements

The ctrlX DRIVE drive portfolio is also becoming more diverse: more compact, more energy-efficient, without control cabinets, and highly modular. This means that drives are available to meet virtually all individual requirements. The ctrlX FLOW family, which offers various motion systems for intralogistics, is also being expanded. The ctrlX FLOW6D planar system is getting a smaller mover size, and the ctrlX FLOWHS linear motion system is getting 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, a second CPU was required for safety functions in machines to ensure redundancy. Now, corresponding functions can be integrated directly into existing controllers such as the ctrlX CORE. This is made possible by the multicore capability of modern processors, which ensure redundant processing. For users, this means greater flexibility with significantly reduced space and cost requirements. “Soft safety allows safety functions to be implemented without additional control hardware. This makes machine projects more space-saving, simpler, and more economical to implement,” explains Steffen Winkler, Sales Manager of the Automation & Electrification Solutions business unit at Bosch Rexroth.

New apps in the ctrlX OS Store

The ecosystem surrounding the open operating system ctrlX OS is being consistently expanded with apps. The ctrlX OS Store already has a total of 86 apps. The diverse range extends from IoT and communication solutions to innovative vision and engineering apps. In the area of security, the new Security Scanner offers the option of completely inventorying machines at the network level during acceptance and having the security status of the entire machine park evaluated. This allows potential vulnerabilities to be identified and addressed at an early stage.

Practical complete solutions with solution sets

Another 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 durations. One example is the “Mobile Robots” solution set. It bundles control, I/O modules, and laser-based localization software that precisely positions mobile robots and manual forklifts. “Our solution sets significantly accelerate time-to-value. They are based on typical use cases and enable rapid project implementation,” emphasizes Winkler.

AI assistance for engineering and support

In addition to hardware and software functions, Bosch Rexroth is also expanding its services related to ctrlX AUTOMATION. With “Ask iXi,” an AI-supported virtual assistant is now available that is integrated both on the website and in the ctrlX WORKS engineering tool. It answers questions about products, functions, and documentation around the clock and supports users both in the decision-making phase and in everyday engineering. “With Ask iXi, our customers now have a digital co-pilot at their side that saves time and provides the entire knowledge of our platform exactly when it is needed,” explains Winkler. “In addition, new AI apps are continuously being added to the ctrlX OS ecosystem. We integrate artificial intelligence at all levels of automation, from configuration to implementation.”

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