Bosch Rexroth introduced the ctrlX Automation modular automation system in 2019, following the trend "towards distributed software and data-based automation solutions - from the field level to edge devices and the cloud," says Steffen Winkler, Head of Sales for the Automation & Electrification Solutions business unit. In 2021, the company made the leap from an open platform to an industrial partner network with the ctrlX World app store. The company is now taking a unique step in automation technology: the real-time-capable, Linux-based operating system, which was previously used exclusively on the ctrlX Core controller, will in future be available as a separate solution for the industrial environment. In other words, Bosch Rexroth is offering ctrlX OS, a Linux-based operating system designed for real-time use in an industrial environment, for sale.

According to Winkler, this far-reaching openness has many advantages: software-based functions can be developed, installed, updated and operated more easily and flexibly across all levels of the automation topology. The hardware independence also makes it possible to operate a virtual controller on hypervisor platforms, in the data center, on edge servers or in the cloud. The operating system supports app technology, web-based engineering, secure user management and data exchange via the ctrlX data layer. All devices in the network are connected via this layer. A standardized toolchain and a software development kit (SDK) are available for all devices. The ctrlX Device Portal enables device management worldwide. This is a digital service for deploying new software functions, managing and maintaining device settings or remote maintenance. The ctrlX OS also provides access to all apps from the ctrlX Store and the ctrlX Automation Community. Users can run their own software on any hardware to suit the application. And, according to Winkler, the whole thing takes place on a secure level: A hardened software stack ensures a high level of cybersecurity.

The hardware-less solution seems to be giving the app store a boost: "We were able to increase the number of third-party providers from 50 to the current 65 within just a few weeks," explains Hans Michael Krause, Head of Product Management CtrlX World. Another 10 partners are to be added by the SPS in November. The latest partners include Salesforce and Sick. CRM provider Salesforce wants to support users in the implementation of digital service concepts. With the apps and services (SaaS), companies can network their value chain and partners, implement new services and automate processes. For example, new business models, proactive services and central digital touchpoints can be developed.

Sick will make the AppSpace eco-system - an engineering framework for sensor applications - applicable to the ctrlX Core controller. This opens the door to sensor apps and digital services.