Manuela Kessler07.05.2026Lohr am Main / Germany | PI 016/26
ROVEMA links in-house developments with the automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION from Bosch Rexroth
ROVEMA combines the motion expertise that has been built up over decades with the automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION from Bosch Rexroth. (Image source: ROVEMA)
Connectivity, modular expandability, safety and the fulfillment of new regulations determine the future viability of automation and the machine generations equipped with it. Modular platforms enable machine manufacturers to contribute their own strengths in a targeted manner and at the same time benefit from the advantages and solutions offered by an open ecosystem. For example, in its packaging machines, ROVEMA combines its own motion expertise that has been built up over decades with the open automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION from Bosch Rexroth.
“Our proprietary control system is a key competitive advantage,” explains Ingo Hamel, CTO at ROVEMA. “With ctrlX AUTOMATION, we’re not replacing this expertise, but rather elevating it to a new platform level. Our motion core remains the heart of the machine. Bosch Rexroth provides the open operating system, the interfaces, the security, and the ability to update. It is precisely this combination that makes our machines future-proof in the long term.”
ctrlX AUTOMATION serves as an open platform at ROVEMA. Its proprietary motion logic is integrated into it. The Linux-based operating system ctrlX OS provides the runtime environment and brings modularity, scalability, and continuous development to automation. The central ctrlX Data Layer enables high-performance and transparent data exchange between applications – a crucial prerequisite for connected machines, data-driven services, and digital expansions. Machines can be seamlessly integrated into existing IT and OT landscapes via standardized interfaces such as OPC UA, MQTT, or REST. App technology and open programming languages also create flexibility for in-house developments as well as the easy integration of third-party components such as vision systems, robotics, or sensor technology.
The operating system ctrlX OS is certified to IEC 62443-4-2, applications run in isolated sandboxes, and security features such as firewalls, role-based user management, and secure VPN solutions are built into the system. The ctrlX Device Portal also enables centralized device and update management – a key component for the secure operation of connected machines.
Future-proofing for machine operators
With ctrlX AUTOMATION, existing machines can be upgraded to the new, future-proof P@ck-Control generation with minimal effort. This significantly extends the service life of the systems and protects investments that has been made. Operators gain a platform designed from the ground up to meet future requirements: from predictive maintenance and AI-based applications to new digital services. Openness, security by design, and long-term component availability ensure planning reliability for many years to come.
New functions, digital services, or safety-related updates can be integrated via the platform without ROVEMA having to redevelop its own core logic. In this way, the company creates the conditions to manage regulatory requirements, market changes, and technological innovations in the long term, enabling it to deliver future-proof machines to its customers.
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 31,900 associates generated sales revenue of 6.5 billion euros in 2025.
Basic Information Bosch
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 413,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2025). The company generated sales of 91 billion euros in 2025. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Mobility, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. With its business activities, the company aims to use technology to help shape universal trends such as automation, digitalization, electrification, and artificial intelligence. In this context, Bosch’s broad diversification across regions and industries strengthens its innovativeness and robustness. Bosch uses its proven expertise in hardware, software, and services to offer customers cross-domain solutions from a single source. It also applies its expertise in connectivity and artificial intelligence in order to develop and manufacture intelligent, user-friendly, and sustainable products. With technology that is “Invented for life,” Bosch wants to help improve quality of life and conserve natural resources. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 500 subsidiary and regional companies in over 60 countries. Including sales and service partners, Bosch’s global manufacturing, engineering, and sales network covers nearly every country in the world. Bosch’s innovative strength is key to the company’s further development. Bosch employs some 82,000 associates in research and development.
The Bosch Rexroth operating system ctrlX OS is already well prepared for the requirements of the CRA and shows how manufacturing companies can future-proof themselves with this solution.
At LogiMAT, Bosch Rexroth will be showcasing open, flexible automation solutions for automated guided vehicles (AGV) and autonomous mobile robots (AMR).
