Modular solutions and maximum openness for more flexibility in production
Manuela Kessler20.05.2025Lohr am Main / Germany | PI 026/25
Bosch Rexroth and Certified Excellence Partner Heinrich Reiter present automation solutions at SMART Automation Austria
At SMART Automation Austria, Bosch Rexroth will be presenting how complex value streams and end-to-end material flow solutions can be implemented with maximum dynamics. (Image source: Bosch Rexroth AG)
Small batch sizes and individualized products require flexibility in assembly and production. Bosch Rexroth offers modular, open hardware and software solutions for this purpose and, with this portfolio, covers both general automation tasks and specific industry solutions, such as for battery production. At SMART Automation Austria, the company will be presenting its portfolio based on the modular automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION. Rexroth linear and assembly technology will be shown at the stand of Certified Excellence Partner Heinrich Reiter.
Automation solutions for battery production
Bosch Rexroth supports machine and plant manufacturers with the broadest range of products and solutions across the entire value stream of battery production - from electrode and cell production to end-of-line testing and battery recycling. At SMART Automation Austria, Rexroth automation solutions for the module and pack assembly of round cell modules will be shown: Two linear robots apply a lid and screw it automatically. Thanks to the high precision of the Rexroth linear axes, the positioning requires no additional measuring systems, such as image processing. This makes assembly faster and more economical.
Automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION
The key to combining a wide variety of solutions is the open automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION. With a real-time-capable Linux-based operating system, consistently open standards, app programming technology, web-based engineering and a comprehensive IoT connection, it reduces component and engineering costs by 30 to 50%. It offers all components for comprehensive automation solutions – from controls, I/Os, IPCs, HMIs, drives and safety solutions through to extensive motion, PLC and IoT functionalities. The operating system ctrlX OS has numerous interfaces and standards and is therefore open to partner integration. The partner network ctrlX World is continuously expanding its range of solutions to include software that is available in the ctrlX OS Store, as well as ctrlX OS-compatible hardware.
Digital Tools shorten time-to-market
Digital tools such as design tools, selectors and configurators significantly shorten engineering processes. For example, the browser-based Linear Motion Technology Selector from Bosch Rexroth guides developers and engineers to the right product quickly and intuitively. After a few clicks and parameter entries, they receive plausible solution recommendations and sensible alternatives including limit values, price information and delivery times. Currently, the new Linear Motion Technology Selector covers the product groups ball and roller rail systems, linear bushings, and ball and planetary screw assemblies. Actuators, linear axes, and multi-axis systems as well as new features will be gradually integrated in the tool.
Smart servo press with force control
The complete mechatronic package Smart Function Kit Pressing enables simple, fast and safe implementation of servo presses. With a software function for force control, processes can also be mapped in which the target force must be kept constant over a defined period of time, even if the position of the workpiece fluctuates or its size changes. This force-controlled joining is used in numerous manufacturing and assembly processes, as well as in material testing. Here too, intelligent e-tools shorten the selection and configuration process. The pre-installed operating software speeds up commissioning, process definition and integration into the production line.
Certified Excellence partner Heinrich Reiter GmbH
Heinrich Reiter is a supplier of machine components as well as operating technology and a Certified Excellence (CE) partner distribution for linear motion and assembly technology from Bosch Rexroth. Certified partner companies such as Heinrich Reiter support customers directly on site with quickly available products, in-house engineering services and/or comprehensive service. The CE partner network comprises the partner types distribution, service and solution.
At SMART Automation Austria from May 20 to 22, 2025, Bosch Rexroth will be presenting solutions relating to its automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION at booth 334. Heinrich Reiter will be exhibiting linear motion and assembly technology from Bosch Rexroth at stand 137.
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 32,600 associates generated sales revenue of 6.5 billion euros in 2024.
Basic Information Bosch
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 418,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2024). The company generated sales of 90.3 billion euros in 2024. 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, electrification, digitalization, connectivity, and an orientation to sustainability. In this context, Bosch’s broad diversification across regions and industries strengthens its innovativeness and robustness. Bosch uses its proven expertise in sensor technology, 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 user-friendly, 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 490 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. At 136 locations across the globe, Bosch employs some 87,000 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).
