ctrlX FLOW: Flexibility and high speed during transport and positioning
Flexibility and high speed during transportation and positioning – and with a small footprint. These are the characteristics of a linear motion system that factories need to meet today’s demand for fast and versatile processes. The linear motion system ctrlX FLOWHS from Bosch Rexroth is designed to meet these characteristics exactly while remaining open to all types of operating concepts.
ctrlX FLOWHS is designed for openness and flexibility. It is based on the control system ctrlX CORE with the operating system ctrlX OS. The solution is easily expandable and future-proof thanks to app technology. The linear motion system is 100 percent integrated into the automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION and benefits from the complete ctrlX OS Ecosystem.
“The connection to our automation system means that all building blocks of the platform and also the apps of the partner network ctrlX World can be used. This is a major benefit compared to self-contained systems, as users can access a range of functions and expand individual parts. As a result, companies can easily adapt their processes to meet changing requirements. This encourages not only innovation but also efficiency in the entire production process chain,” explained Steffen Winkler, Senior Vice President of Sales Business Unit Automation & Electrification Solutions at Bosch Rexroth.
High dynamics and small footprint
The plug-and-play functionality provides even more flexibility. Straight and curved segments as well as points can be combined as necessary to create specific topologies, lengths, and routes.
One benefit of ctrlX FLOW is its high dynamics which helps to ensure the necessary performance levels in modern factories. With acceleration of up to 10G and a speed of 5m/s, the system allows quick movements. Multiple movers with a scalable payload of up to 2.5kg (individually) or 5kg (in a group) offer suitable performance and precision. The U-shaped design improves routing and minimizes friction to ensure a constant maximum speed – even in curves.
At the same time, the system takes up only a very small amount of space. Compared to other solutions, the system has smaller movers and a product spacing reduced by 20 percent to just 40 mm. This makes it possible to build more compact products and manufacture them more efficiently.
Flexible operating concepts – also with IoT capability
Companies can choose different operating concepts for ctrlX FLOW. The combination with the i.safe MOBILE industrial tablet IS940.x, which features an industrial IoT processor from Qualcomm Technologies Inc., is completely new. Specially designed for IoT applications, the application processor features a high-performance CPU and AI capabilities. It is also equipped with an integrated 5G modem and Wi-Fi connectivity. With it, the i.safe MOBILE tablet can be used as a connected and highly available IoT solution for operating ctrlX FLOW. The tablet can be connected wirelessly to the ctrlX AUTOMATION system and visualizes the live operation of ctrlX FLOW in the 3D viewer app.
