ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free reduces space and cabling by up to 90 percent
Modular, flexible, and energy-efficient IP65 system
Bosch Rexroth is a pioneer in cabinet-free drive technology
Modularity, simple installation, and drastically reduced space requirements as well as minimum cabling – these are the key benefits of cabinet-free drive technology. Based on 20 years of development experience in this field, Bosch Rexroth now also offers a cabinet-free solution in protection class IP65 with the ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free. Bosch Rexroth sees these solutions as the future of servo drive technology, as they ideally meet the increasing requirements for efficiency and adaptability in modern production environments.
Modular, flexible and energy-efficient system: the new ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free.
“Today, more than ever, mechanical engineering is about saving space, reducing costs, and enabling rapid adaptation to new challenges,” says Steffen Winkler, Senior Vice President Sales Business Unit Automation & Electrification Solutions at Bosch Rexroth.
Bosch Rexroth is a pioneer in cabinet-free drive technology. The company presented its first solutions some 20 years ago and has been implementing numerous projects worldwide ever since. With the new ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free, Bosch Rexroth presents the next stage of development for this technology, which meets the requirements of modern machine designs.
The servo drive of the future is flexible and saves space and energy
Control cabinets take up space and are expensive to install and service. The ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free IP65 system almost completely eliminates the control cabinet and reduces the space and cabling requirements by up to 90 percent. This not only saves time and costs, but also makes assembly, project planning, and operation easier.
Furthermore, the cabinet-free solution enables energy savings of up to 70 percent. The decentralized design eliminates energy consumption for control cabinet air-conditioning, which lowers operating costs. In addition, the ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free uses silicon carbide semiconductors (SiC technology), which significantly reduce energy losses and thus increase overall energy efficiency.
ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free offers maximum flexibility in application. Mechanical engineers can choose from an extensive product portfolio that includes single and dual-axis inverters with currents from 6 to 54 A. The drives are freely scalable – up to 100 drives can be operated in a line with a total length of up to 200 m. With multi-Ethernet interfaces, freely selectable motors, and modular expansion options, the system offers solutions for a wide range of industries and applications.
The machine can be adapted and expanded easily thanks to the system’s modular design. As a result, machines can be flexibly configured to meet new requirements without having to completely change existing structures.
“Cabinet-free drive technology already pays off during the machine development process. It speeds up time-to-market and project realization. And in practical applications, users benefit from greater flexibility and potential savings, for example in terms of energy. With ctrlX DRIVE cabinet-free, we are driving forward the development of innovative, future-oriented machines,” says Winkler.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
More and more AI-assisted applications are being integrated into automation systems
Sustainable manufacturing becomes a strategic goal
The future lies in ecosystems and collaborative innovations
Economic uncertainties, growing regulatory pressure, and a shortage of skilled workers are holding back the industry’s competitiveness and ability to innovate. Automation is a powerful lever to meet these challenges. Bosch Rexroth sees four key trends shaping automation in 2025: increased security measures through the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), artificial intelligence as an efficiency booster, more sustainability as a response to stricter environmental requirements, and open ecosystems for more innovation.
Increased security measures, artificial intelligence and more sustainability. These are the automation trends from Bosch Rexroth’s perspective for the year 2025. (Image source: Bosch Rexroth AG, created with the help of AI)
“Automation remains the key to making the industry future-proof and competitive. It enables efficiency gains, new business models, and added value. We are seeing more and more companies relying on automation platforms with ecosystems, as they offer the greatest possible scope for action. This trend will also continue to increase in 2025,” explains Steffen Winkler, Senior Vice President Sales Business Unit Automation & Electrification Solutions at Bosch Rexroth.
Even greater focus on security with the Cyber Resilience Act
The Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), which came into force at the end of 2024, presents manufacturers and operators of industrial automation systems with new security requirements. The European regulation aims to improve security standards for digital products, thus increasing their resilience to cyber attacks. Products should be securely designed and updatable throughout their entire life cycle.
“IT security is more essential than ever for successful digitization strategies and products. The CRA provides clear requirements – this is an important step toward creating a high level of security across the board and strengthening user confidence in digital solutions. We therefore need to make automation solutions fit for these challenges, as we have already done with our operating system ctrlX OS. It is designed to be secure from the ground up and is therefore ideally prepared for the requirements of the CRA,” says Winkler.
For companies in the automation industry, the CRA means an even more intensive focus on security and product integrity. Adherence to the new directives requires a rethink that starts in product development.
AI is a driver of innovation in automation
Artificial intelligence is set to become even more important in 2025 – including in the automation industry. More and more AI-assisted applications are being integrated into automation systems. AI-assisted apps are already available in the partner network ctrlX World.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in software. AI-assisted software modules, such as neural networks for image processing solutions, are changing the possibilities for automation. AI also provides new operational insights in practice by analyzing data flows in automation devices. And it changes the way we work, for example, in software development. Tools, such as coding co-pilots, speed up programming and enable code to be written faster.
This enables significant efficiency gains both in the development of automation technologies and in their application.
Sustainability as a strategic goal
Sustainability and energy efficiency will continue to challenge industry and therefore also the automation sector. Industry plays a crucial role in achieving the global climate targets. Sustainable manufacturing requires zero emissions, resource efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
More and more energy-saving functions are therefore being incorporated into automation components. Tools to simulate energy and performance also make an important contribution to optimizing manufacturing processes. There is further potential in the professional reprocessing of automation components: remanufacturing reduces the carbon footprint of used components by more than 50 percent compared to new products and conserves precious resources.
Open ecosystems for collaborative innovations
“The German automation industry is a global leader. To maintain and expand this leading position, it is essential to strengthen Germany as a business location and to boost the industry’s competitiveness even more,” says Winkler, adding: “Simply being at the technological forefront is not enough to remain successful in global competition in the long term.”
The key lies in open platforms and collaborative ecosystems that create real benefits for users. Such ecosystems combine the strengths of different players and thus enable the development of new, innovative approaches. This creates a culture of collaboration in which partners from different areas work together on solutions that go far beyond the capabilities of individual companies. In addition, open cooperation strengthens users’ trust in digital technologies by providing them with more flexible, interoperable, and future-proof solutions.
Bosch Rexroth constantly drives forward openness and co-creation in the automation world with its operating system ctrlX OS and the automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION.
As one of the world’s leading suppliers of drive and control technologies, Bosch Rexroth ensures efficient, powerful and safe movement in machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile and Industrial Applications as well as Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions, engineering and services, Bosch Rexroth is creating the necessary environment for fully connected applications. Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drive and control technology, gear technology and linear motion and assembly technology, including software and interfaces to the Internet of Things. With locations in over 80 countries, around 33,800 associates generated sales revenue of 7.6 billion euros in 2023.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
The IO-Link communication interface offers tangible benefits: quick and cost-saving installation, continuous diagnostics and quick sensor replacement, because these can be configured from a central location. All in all, this provides more flexibility and increases the efficiency of automation.
Easy installation
For IO-Link all you need is an industry-standard three- or four-conductor cable. The uniform standard interface can be quickly integrated into the fieldbus world. Even complex devices can be easily integrated. What is particularly interesting is that even without expensive, shielded cabling, the digital communication ensures noise immunity. Analog signals are digitized with no conversion losses.
IO-Link increases machine availability
IO-Link enables quick and error-free exchange of sensors and shortens the time needed to start system operation. Downtime can be significantly reduced, since the IO-Link master or the controller automatically writes the parameters of a replaced IO-Link sensor onto the new sensor. Commissioning processes, format changes or recipe changes are handled centrally via the controller’s function modules. This saves time and minimizes the potential for mistakes. Additional advantages for you: IO-Link devices cannot be confused with each other as they are automatically identifiable via IO-Link.
IO-Link enables need-oriented maintenance
Continuous diagnostic data for the entire process extends your service intervals, since automatic readjustment via IO-Link means you need to perform maintenance much less frequently on equipment and machines. Now, predictive error detection is even possible because complete process parameters are consistently displayed in the controller.
IO-Link makes operation more efficient
IO-Link sensors can be positioned in the machine directly at the location of operation because the sensor’s accessibility no longer plays a role. That is optimal in terms of technical aspects of the process. Process monitoring, configuration and error analysis of the IO-Link sensors take place in the controller. Machine processes are now time-optimized. Additionally, signal delays and distortions are reliably eliminated because the digital transmission of data also ensures high signal quality. A wide range of application requirements can be easily met with IO-Link due to standard binary and analog devices being used at the same time as IO-Link sensors and actuators.
IO-Link offers a high-performance, consistent network
Control concepts using IO-Link provide you with simple and universal solutions for a high-performance, consistent network, meaning you benefit from lower costs and are more flexibility than ever.
We Speak IO-Link
The advantages of IO-Link are obvious: easy installation, high machine availability, need-oriented maintenance, efficient operation and a high-performance, consistent network. As an engaged partner for industrial automation, Balluff offers not only an enormously wide spectrum of products and services with devices such as our IO-Link master, IO-Link hubs and IO-Link sensors, but together with you also develops solutions for industrial automation that are precisely suited to your needs and are globally applicable.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
Easy entry into efficient and proven IO-Link technology is made possible by the new generation of our I/O modules. Flexibly adapted to meet your needs, you can use up to 16 digital inputs or 8 digital inputs and outputs depending on the application.
This allows for flexible exchange and easy expansion of your application. The next generation sensor/actuator hubs provide eight standardized M12 ports, four of which can be configured variably.
The added value to existing Balluff IO-Link sensor/actuator hubs is primarily in the optimized housing concept and the deliberate simplicity of the new generation.
Less is more − you gain simple handling and support of basic I/O functions without complex add-on functions. Our new sustainable housing concept uses recyclable materials without potting materials in an environmentally friendly way, while still meeting all the requirements for industrial use in the usual Balluff quality.
Improved process quality with IO-Link
IO-Link brings users more flexibility and increases efficiency in automation. Our new gen IO-Link sensor/actuator hub offers you an easy entry into IO-Link technology for support of basic I/O functions. You can simply realize efficient topologies, because communication and power supply run over a single line. Our I/O modules enable the integration of standard sensors and actuators in IO-Link topologies. Sensor/actuator hubs also offer you a high savings potential, because they reduce the number of fieldbus modules and enable efficient scaling of the application. In a nutshell, our new gen version is an ideal solution for getting started with the IO-Link standard or for completing versatile applications in a cost-effective manner.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
Easily maintain the optimal operational flow rate for most air-operated double diaphragm pumps on the market with this turnkey system
Ensuring that air-operated double diaphragm pumps run consistently and optimally through long cycles is easy with Proportion-Air’s new Pump Controller.
Many AODD pumps operate with just a ball valve and shop air. This can lead to inaccurate, inconsistent material flow. The Pump Controller is a turnkey system that eliminates these issues. Run-dry situations can be avoided, saving diaphragms from unnecessary wear. More efficient flows and extended diaphragm life undeniably result in real cost savings for facilities using AODD pumps.
The Pump Controller uses the accurate, repeatable performance of a proportional electro-pneumatic regulator coupled with a volume booster for enhanced flow capabilities. A NEMA 4X-rated enclosure protects against unwanted dust, liquids and other particulate matter.
The new unit is also easy to install and operate. Offering both automatic and manual modes, the device is connected to the supply line the same way a single regulator would be installed. Automatic mode allows for remote control from a PLC or other controller. A knob on the faceplate provides control when in manual mode.
Maximum inlet pressure is 125 psi, meeting the needs for most of the AODD pumps on the market. The 110 VAC power is compatible with standard outlets. Common size options are available for online purchase. Please contact our team for quotes and custom options.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
With its Edge Edition cobots, Kassow Robots has miniaturized the robot controller to about 10 percent of its original size and launched the world’s first 7-axis cobots in which the controller is integrated into the base of the robot. In this interview, founder and CEO Kristian Kassow talks about the advantages of this innovation.
Why did you develop the Edge Edition, and had there been anything like it before?
Our goal has always been to make it as easy as possible for our customers to integrate cobots into their production, with an explicit focus on SMEs. Our Edge Edition offers multiple advantages here: it’s designed for industrial use, offers a high level of maneuverability thanks to its 7 axes, and delivers unique compactness. It also has a small footprint of just 160 x 200 millimeters. That is because we have miniaturized the controller to just 10 percent of the original size and integrated it into the robot base. Another benefit worth mentioning is that the Edge Edition can be easily connected to any DC power supply, such as the battery of a mobile robot.
What customer groups are you targeting with the Edge Edition?
Lots of them, all industries with intralogistics tasks at their production sites can benefit from our Edge Edition! The Edge Edition offers the additional benefit of being a multifunctional cobot, allowing users to switch between tasks seamlessly. This includes the ability to use it for the production of Product A, followed by a quality check, and then for palletizing. The Edge Edition comes into play and shows off its advantages when a cobot becomes an efficient assistant to mobile robots.
We believe that mobile applications will be the primary use for the Edge Edition. This means using cobots in combination with an AMR or AGV.
Can you tell us more about your cobots being an assistant to mobile robots?
One way in which the cobot can be made mobile is by moving the lightweight cobot installation to a new location and programming it for a new application. The programming of a cobot is much easier than in the case of a traditional industrial robot. Another way to make the most of mobility is to use it for the same tasks that come up at various locations during the production process. Let me give you an example. A combination of an AGV/AMR and a cobot can take over the task to take care of the loading of boxes which will be used for packaging.
With the Edge Edition from Kassow Robots, the controller has been integrated into the base of the 7-axis cobot.
Why does the Edge Edition contribute to an easy integration of AGV/AMR-cobot solutions?
To summarize: The Edge Edition saves space because the robot arm and controller form a compact unit that can be installed quickly. In addition, as mentioned earlier, the direct current (DC) connection on all Edge Edition cobots satisfies all the requirements for connecting a cobot directly to the battery of an AGV or AMR. At the end of the day, we want to make it easier for our customers to integrate cobots into mobile solutions.
A look at today’s AGVs and AMRs quickly reveals just how little space they offer. Robot controllers are mostly bulky, making it harder to automate tasks. Our Edge Edition cobots feature a slim base. We help system integrators and end customers simplify the implementation of these AGV/AMR & cobot solutions.
All five Edge Edition cobots have a DC connection. They are powered by direct current and can be connected to mobile robots’ batteries, for example.
*This interview was originally published in September 2024 by the German magazine Automation Praxis
If you have any questions or require further information regarding Kassow Robots, please contact us: sales@cmafh.com
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
The factory of the future is characterized by the increasing networking of control technology, IT and IoT. The various systems must be seamlessly interconnected to ensure end-to-end digital processes. At the same time, however, this increases the risk of cyber attacks, as attackers have more and more entry points. In the connected world, attacks can cause more damage than ever before. It is therefore essential that security is consistently implemented at all levels. ctrlX AUTOMATION shows how this works while maintaining radical openness in automation.
More and more devices and machines are being networked and communicate via the Internet of Things (IoT). This creates numerous opportunities, but also risks. The more components are connected, the larger the attack surface. Cyber attacks can paralyze production and lead to financial losses and image damage.
Many systems in factories are outdated and were developed without considering cyber security. This makes them more vulnerable to attacks and difficult or impossible to update. It is therefore necessary to develop more resilient solutions. This must include IT systems as well as control technology and the IoT. This means: radical openness at all levels meets security at all levels.
But secure: from the control system to the apps
With ctrlX AUTOMATION, Bosch Rexroth has launched an end-to-end, open automation solution that has been designed from the ground up to be completely secure. The high security standards apply to all components in the automation toolkit and to every component by which the system grows. The hardware and software products are Secure by Design. This means that security requirements are already taken into account in the development phase. The automation solution, which was developed with a focus on conformity with IEC 62443-4-2, is based on the Linux Ubuntu Core operating system, which is considered to be extremely secure.
The ctrlX CORE controller is an example of the high level of security in the ctrlX AUTOMATION portfolio. The associated IoT software has fully integrated IT security standards according to IEC 62443-4-2 for access control and remote maintenance. In addition, the controller offers various security features such as Secure Boot, a security chip in accordance with TPM 2.0, and a minimal network footprint when delivered. With the optional firewall and VPN client, the controller can be upgraded to a full-fledged network appliance, which ensures the highest possible availability and security of the connected network components.
Since ctrlX AUTOMATION is not a self-contained system, but rather a place where different players pool their domain knowledge, the security strategy also includes the partner network ctrlX World. For example, each of the partner apps offered is validated by Bosch Rexroth. This rules out the possibility of third-party software introducing malicious code. This and the sandboxing principle further increase the security of the other apps installed on the system.
ctrlX developR design with a view to the future
The holistic and fundamental implementation of security standards and mechanisms in all facets of ctrlX AUTOMATION creates a resilient overall system that can also demonstrate these capabilities. In order to maintain this level, permanent further development is required – also in view of ever new types of attacks and ways of attack.
That is why ctrlX developR always keep their fingers on the pulse and look to the future. The latest security requirements are already taken into account in the planning and development phase. At Bosch Rexroth, “Two steps ahead” also applies when it comes to security.
If you have any questions or require further information regarding ctrlX AUTOMATION, please contact us: sales@cmafh.com
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
Optimum power supply for the sophisticated automation solution with IO-Link communication interface
In the world of automation, ensuring a reliable and efficient power supply is crucial for the seamless operation of sensors, actuators, controllers, and HMIs. Balluff Heartbeat® power supply units with IO-Link interfaces stand out as an optimal solution for sophisticated automation systems, designed to meet the high demands of quality, longevity, and diagnostic capabilities.
Why Choose Balluff Heartbeat® Power Supply Units?
Balluff Heartbeat® power supplies are engineered with precision, incorporating high-quality components that guarantee an extended service life. These units are particularly well-suited for critical applications where reliability is non-negotiable. The built-in monitoring system is a standout feature, offering real-time insights into the power supply’s performance.
One of the most valuable aspects of these power supplies is the Heartbeat® status indicator LED. This feature provides a local, three-color indication of the current load situation, the device’s wear level, and the remaining service life. This visual feedback allows for immediate assessment of the system’s health. Additionally, the power supply’s digital outputs convey alarm, stress level, and lifetime information, enabling preemptive maintenance and avoiding unexpected downtime.
Enhanced Diagnostics with IO-Link Interface
The integration of IO-Link communication adds another layer of sophistication to the Balluff Heartbeat® power supplies. Through IO-Link, users can access detailed diagnostic and status information about the device, including operating parameters and historical data. This capability not only enhances transparency but also facilitates informed decision-making in maintenance and operation.
The extra narrow design of these power supply units makes them ideal for resource-optimized control cabinet configurations (IP20 housing). For decentralized structures, IP67 variants are available, offering robust power supply solutions in direct proximity to the consumer.
Key Features That Set Balluff Heartbeat® Power Supplies Apart
The Balluff Heartbeat® power supplies are packed with features designed to meet the diverse needs of modern automation systems:
24 V, Single Phase: Available in various power ratings (91, 120, 240, and 480 W), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of applications.
Short-Circuit Proof with PowerBoost 150%: Delivers extra power when needed, ensuring the system’s resilience during peak loads.
Regulatable Output Voltage: Provides flexibility in maintaining optimal performance.
Low Residual Ripple: Ensures a stable output voltage, crucial for sensitive electronic components.
Preventative Maintenance and Condition-Based Maintenance: Supports Industry 4.0 initiatives, allowing for predictive and condition-based maintenance strategies.
Galvanic Isolation: Ensures that IO-Link communication and power supply units are electrically separated, enhancing safety and performance.
Tailored Solutions for Control Cabinets and Field Applications
Control Cabinet Power Supplies: Available in single-phase or three-phase configurations, these units range from 75 to 960 W and can be connected in parallel to provide up to 2.8 kW. They offer features such as regulatable output voltage, alarm LED-output digital, and the ability to operate in parallel or series configurations for flexible application adaptation.
Field Power Supplies with IO-Link Interface: These units come in compact IP67 housings without potting, offering over 95% efficiency. They are available in 1- or 3-phase configurations with 7/8″ or M12 connectors, providing up to 12 A continuous power per channel. The field power supplies also include 2 outputs with 4 fused channels, allowing for separate monitoring and remote parameterization via IO-Link.
Conclusion
The Balluff Heartbeat® power supply units with IO-Link interfaces are more than just power sources—they are integral components of a sophisticated automation ecosystem. Their advanced diagnostic capabilities, high-quality construction, and flexible configurations make them an ideal choice for industries that demand the highest levels of reliability and efficiency. By integrating these power supplies into your automation solution, you are not just powering your systems; you are future-proofing your operations with a robust, intelligent power supply solution.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
Exploring the ctrlX Core: Revolutionizing Automation and Control
In the ever-evolving landscape of automation and control technology, the ctrlX CORE has emerged as a game-changer. Developed by Bosch Rexroth, the ctrlX CORE represents a significant leap forward in how we design and implement automation systems. This blog post delves into what makes the ctrlX CORE stand out and how it’s reshaping the future of industrial control.
What is the ctrlX CORE?
At its core, the ctrlX CORE is a highly flexible, scalable, and modular control platform designed to meet the diverse needs of modern industrial automation. It integrates a range of functionalities into a single, compact unit, enabling unprecedented levels of efficiency and adaptability in automation systems.
Key Features and Benefits
Modular Design: The ctrlX CORE’S modular architecture allows users to tailor their automation solutions with various modules and components. This flexibility ensures that the system can be customized to specific application requirements, making it suitable for a wide range of industries and use cases.
Open Architecture: Embracing an open architecture, the ctrlX CORE supports a broad spectrum of standards and protocols. This openness facilitates seamless integration with existing systems and third-party devices, providing users with greater freedom and interoperability.
High Performance: Equipped with advanced processing capabilities, the ctrlX CORE delivers exceptional performance in terms of speed, responsiveness, and data handling. This high-performance backbone is crucial for real-time control and complex automation tasks.
Scalability: One of the standout features of the ctrlX CORE is its scalability. Whether you need a small, simple controller or a more robust system with extensive I/O capabilities, the ctrlX CORE can scale to meet your needs. This scalability helps future-proof investments and allows for easy upgrades as requirements evolve.
Intuitive User Interface: The ctrlX CORE offers an intuitive user interface that simplifies programming, configuration, and monitoring. With tools designed to streamline workflows and reduce complexity, users can quickly set up and manage their automation systems.
Edge Computing Capabilities: Leveraging edge computing, the ctrlX CORE processes data locally, reducing latency and improving response times. This capability is particularly beneficial for applications requiring real-time analytics and decision-making.
Applications Across Industries
The versatility of the ctrlX CORE makes it applicable across a variety of industries:
Manufacturing: In manufacturing, the ctrlX CORE can drive complex production lines, coordinate multiple machines, and ensure high precision and efficiency.
Logistics: For logistics and warehousing, it can manage automated guided vehicles (AGVs), conveyor systems, and sorting equipment, optimizing operations and reducing downtime.
Energy: In the energy sector, it supports the automation of renewable energy systems, power distribution, and monitoring of critical infrastructure.
Automotive: The CtrlX Core is also used in the automotive industry for controlling assembly lines, testing equipment, and other automation processes.
Looking Ahead
As industrial automation continues to advance, the ctrlX CORE stands out as a pivotal innovation. Its combination of modularity, performance, and flexibility makes it a valuable tool for businesses looking to enhance their automation capabilities and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Bosch Rexroth’s ctrlX CORE is more than just a control platform; it’s a step towards a more connected, intelligent, and adaptable future in industrial automation. For businesses seeking to leverage the latest in automation technology, the ctrlX CORE represents a powerful and forward-thinking solution.
Here is a showcase for Node RED, one of the most popular apps for the ctrlX.
Unleashing Creativity and Efficiency with Node-RED
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, staying ahead often means finding new and efficient ways to integrate and automate processes. Enter Node-RED, a powerful tool that’s been making waves in the tech community for its versatility and ease of use. If you haven’t heard of it yet, it’s time to get acquainted.
What is Node-RED?
Node-RED is an open-source flow-based development tool designed for wiring together hardware devices, APIs, and online services. Developed by IBM, Node-RED provides a browser-based flow editor that makes it incredibly easy to create and manage workflows with minimal coding. Think of it as a visual programming environment where you can drag and drop nodes (blocks of code) to build applications or automate tasks.
Why Node-RED?
**1. Ease of Use: Node-RED’s drag-and-drop interface simplifies the process of designing and deploying workflows. You don’t need to be a coding expert to get started; the visual nature of the tool allows you to create complex systems by simply connecting different nodes.
**2. Flexibility: Whether you’re working with IoT devices, APIs, or just need to automate a task, Node-RED has a vast library of pre-built nodes and integrations. This flexibility allows you to connect to almost any service or device with minimal configuration.
**3. Rapid Prototyping: Node-RED is ideal for prototyping and experimentation. Its visual interface allows you to quickly iterate on your design, test different workflows, and see results in real-time.
**4. Community and Ecosystem: Being open-source, Node-RED has a vibrant community that contributes to its ecosystem. There are countless nodes available for various purposes, from integrating with social media platforms to controlling home automation systems.
How Node-RED Works
Node-RED uses a flow-based programming model where you build your application by connecting different nodes in a flow. Each node represents a specific function or task, such as sending an HTTP request, processing data, or interacting with a database.
Nodes: These are the building blocks of your application. Each node performs a specific function, such as a sensor reading, data transformation, or sending a notification.
Flows: Flows are the connections between nodes. They define the path that data takes through your application, specifying how data should be processed and transferred between nodes.
Debugging and Monitoring: Node-RED provides built-in tools for debugging and monitoring your flows. You can see real-time logs, inspect data as it moves through your nodes, and quickly identify issues.
Programming Flow
Practical Applications
**1. IoT and Home Automation: Node-RED is a popular choice for IoT applications and smart home automation. You can easily connect sensors, actuators, and other devices to create custom automation rules and control systems.
**2. API Integration: If you need to integrate multiple APIs or services, Node-RED’s flexible nodes make it straightforward to connect and manage data from various sources. This can be particularly useful for aggregating data or creating custom dashboards.
**3. Data Processing: Node-RED’s ability to process and transform data makes it a powerful tool for data pipelines. You can fetch data from different sources, perform transformations, and output the results to your desired destination.
**4. Rapid Prototyping: Whether you’re building a new application or testing an idea, Node-RED’s ease of use and rapid prototyping capabilities allow you to quickly validate concepts and iterate on your designs.
Sample Node Red Dashboard Visualization Credit: Richard Hopkins
Conclusion
Node-RED is transforming how we approach building and integrating applications. Its visual, flow-based programming model simplifies complex tasks and opens up possibilities for both technical and non-technical users. Whether you’re looking to automate your home, integrate APIs, or prototype new ideas, Node-RED offers a powerful and user-friendly platform to bring your projects to life.
So why not give Node-RED a try? Dive into its capabilities and see how it can streamline your workflow and spark your creativity in the world of technology.
In addition to distribution, we design and fabricate complete engineered systems, including hydraulic power units, electrical control panels, pneumatic panels & aluminum framing. Our advanced components and system solutions are found in a wide variety of industrial applications such as wind energy, solar energy, process control and more.
Do you need the high speed of a bang-bang valve with less wear on your components? Maybe a Comnica directional control valve from Tokyo Keiki will be the solution to your problems.
Tokyo Keiki has come out with a line of directional and flow control valves called “Comnica.” This line of valves is a smart bang-bang valve with many adjustable settings. There are three modes for the valve, analog, channel and shockless. This new design offers independent settings for acceleration and deceleration. These valves have an onboard microprocessor that allows setting of parameters. Programming can be done per valve with the touch buttons or across many valves with a handheld setting device, ideal for multiple valves or mounted valves. Comnica has a compact space saving design with the same configuration as a solenoid valve. Can be connected to general purpose relays, PLCs, and much more. Quantity discounts available and a lead time of 11-23 weeks. Can run with either petroleum based hydraulic oil or water/glycol based hydraulic oil.
Analog setting needs a separate power supply of -10 to 10 volts. The polarity can be reversed and controls the operation with absolute values specified for flow. The change time is set to reduce the shock when inputting an analog command voltage in a stepwise manner. Ramp up and ramp down time can be set into the valve separately in each direction to ensure a smoother transition.
Channel Setting (CH) can use various switches to control speed, can turn them on in chronological order and it will take the command of the last switch. Good for slowing down and ramping up speed. 3 channels for each side with ramp up/ramp down times built in to commands. Ramp time can be between 0 and 9.9 seconds. This setting is good for connecting to a PLC, general-purpose relays, proximity switches, etc. to manage shockless operation, flow control and position.
Shockless setting (SH) only has two settings per direction, no 3A and 3B. Switch to turn on (high speed), then switch off for second setting (low speed). 1st time setting controls the ramp up time, 2nd time setting reduces close speed of valve for soft close. Halt signal used to obtain position control. Low speeds with only wiring 1A and 1B, making this a good option for PLCs with less available outputs. Ramp time of 0 to 9.9 seconds.
In addition to the valve parameters previously mentioned, the COMNICA software includes an adjustable dither frequency, current gain, and current offset value under the “Extension Settings” Tab.
Dither frequency is important in applications where the static friction of the valve is high enough to cause irregular operation of the valve spool. There is also hysteresis in the valve shifting, meaning that for a given input signal you would get a difference response. The dither frequency ensures that the valve response is consistent by constantly breaking the static friction through small vibrations. Current Gain and Current % gives the user more control over the response of the valve. All of the parameters can be saved to and read from a .txt file.
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Contributors:
Victoria O’Neill, Application Engineer at CMAFH email Robert Fetcho, Application Engineer at CMAFH email
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