Industrial automation becomes increasingly software-driven, networked and shaped by artificial intelligence. Bosch Rexroth is driving this transformation with its open automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION and is now presenting a series of new features. These include extensive hardware portfolio expansions, AI capabilities, a software-based safety solution, new apps in the ctrlX OS Store and preconfigured Solution Sets.
With ctrlX AUTOMATION as a modular toolbox of hardware, software and apps, Bosch Rexroth aims to significantly simplify automation – reducing project timelines and accelerating value creation. The latest enhancements further strengthen this approach.
Hardware Enhancements for ctrlX AUTOMATION – AI Integrated into Controllers
The modular ctrlX COREplus controller is now available with AI functionality across all performance levels. An optional AI module enables efficient integration of artificial intelligence directly at the edge, allowing data to be processed and analyzed locally. ctrlX COREplus also now offers increased computing power for AI and vision applications, additional memory for local data handling and expanded communication options.
At the same time, scalable IPCs equipped with NVIDIA 2000A GPUs deliver higher computational and image-processing performance for demanding vision and AI workloads at the edge. IPCs with an integrated ctrlX OS operating system are also now available. The new HMI lineup offers double the performance with a smaller footprint.
The ctrlX I/O portfolio is expanding as well, with 23 new modules that open up additional application possibilities across automation and infrastructure.
Within the ctrlX DRIVE portfolio, the range of available drive systems continues to grow: more compact, more energy-efficient, cabinet-free and highly modular – providing solutions for virtually every requirement.
The ctrlX FLOW family, which encompasses various motion systems for intralogistics, is also being expanded. The planar system ctrlX FLOW6D now includes a smaller mover size, and the linear motion system ctrlX FLOWHS adds a junction module for specific topologies and layouts.
Safety PLC as an App for Functional Safety
With the new “Safety PLC” app, Bosch Rexroth is making functional safety hardware-independent. Until now, safety functions in machines required a second CPU for redundancy. These functions can now be integrated directly into existing controllers such as ctrlX CORE. The multicore capability of modern processors enables redundant processing. For users, this means greater flexibility with significantly reduced space and cost requirements.
“Soft Safety enables safety functions to be implemented without additional control hardware. This makes machine projects more space-efficient, simpler and more economical,” explains Steffen Winkler, Vice President Sales of the Automation & Electrification Solutions Business Unit at Bosch Rexroth.
New Apps in the ctrlX OS Store
The ecosystem surrounding the open ctrlX OS operating system continues to grow, now offering 86 apps. The range extends from IoT and communication solutions to innovative vision and engineering apps. In the area of security, the new Security Scanner allows machines to be fully inventoried at the network level during commissioning and assesses the security status of the entire machine fleet. Potential vulnerabilities can thus be identified and addressed early.
Practical Complete Solutions with Solution Sets
Another focus of the new developments is preconfigured complete solutions. These Solution Sets combine optimally matched hardware and software components, reducing integration risks and project lead times.
One example is the Mobile Robots Solution Set, which bundles a controller, I/O modules and laser-based localization software to precisely position mobile robots and manual forklifts. “Our Solution Sets significantly accelerate time-to-value. They are designed around typical use cases and enable rapid project implementation,” Winkler emphasizes.
AI Assistance for Engineering and Support
In addition to hardware and software functions, Bosch Rexroth is expanding its service offering around ctrlX AUTOMATION. With Ask iXi, an AI-powered virtual assistant will be available at SPS 2025, integrated into both the website and the ctrlX WORKS engineering tool. It answers questions around the clock about products, features and documentation, supporting users both during decision-making and in everyday engineering tasks.
“With Ask iXi, our customers now have a digital co-pilot at their side that saves time and delivers the full knowledge of our platform exactly when it is needed,” says Winkler. “And new AI apps are continually enriching the ctrlX OS ecosystem. We are integrating artificial intelligence at every level of automation—from configuration to execution.”
