ctrlX I/O

Enabler for the next level: I/O portfolio

Connectivity forms the foundation for a successful digital factory. Smooth communication between machines, systems, and operators enables the full potential of Industry 4.0 to be exploited. In other industries, too, connectivity is indispensable for intelligent processes and new business models. With the ctrlX I/O portfolio from Bosch Rexroth, users are ideally equipped for the future and can benefit from efficiency and flexibility.

 

An overview of the key facts:

  • 50% less space required in the control cabinet
  • Flexible and unlimited topologies
  • EtherCAT as far as the terminal
  • Simple, quick commissioning

  • Perfectly tailored to ctrlX CORE
  • Integration of own modules possible
  • Future-proof

Highlights of the I/O portfolio ctrlX I/O

ctrlX I/O expands the automation system ctrlX AUTOMATION with additional interfaces to the field and control level. Bosch Rexroth relies uncompromisingly on standardized, sector and vendor-neutral interfaces.

Picture of the industrial controller ctrlX CORE with ctrlX I/O components attached. Network cable and signal lines are connected.

The setup is compact, modular and robust – significant savings are possible on the DIN rail: up to 50% less space is needed in the control cabinet. Installation and wiring are possible without the use of tools. The flexible, high-performance solution stands out in a number of areas, for example through its openness towards the EtherCAT ecosystem, flexible machine topologies and various communication standards. Web-based configuration and diagnostics, Plug & Run and integrated monitoring functions take engineering to a whole new level. ctrlX I/O is perfectly tailored to ctrlX CORE. The mapping in the ctrlX Data Layer allows easy I/O access by all apps or applications. The field and management level are linked, even without PLC.

ctrlX I/O – Driver for intelligent networked machines

Together with ctrlX AUTOMATION, ctrlX I/O is a driver for intelligent connectivity in the field of automation. For developers, ctrlX I/O means the greatest possible degrees of freedom when implementing modular machine concepts and great potential for savings.

Flexible machine topology

ctrlX I/O is a functional extension of the ctrlX CORE control system, adding technology and hardware options such as memory expansions, USB and Ethernet interfaces and much more. The solution can be integrated seamlessly into ctrlX CORE. On the field level, ctrlX I/O allows flexible machine topologies and the seamless integration of the sensor/actuator level. As a result, higher-level control systems as well as MES and cloud solutions can easily be connected on the control level.

ctrlX AUTOMATION control-based automation architecture with the ctrlX CORE industrial controller, with ctrlX I/O. External I/O stations, ctrlX HMI and DRIVE can be seen. The caption reads: More Communication Standards.

Analog and digital inputs/outputs allow standard sensors and actuators to be connected. Via encoder interfaces and drive modules, small and stepping motors can be controlled straight from the I/O level. Machine manufacturers can combine modules and extensions freely. Apps tailored to ctrlX I/O from the ctrlX WORKS software and engineering toolbox cover numerous technological functions.

Picture of a ctrlX I/O station. One connector is equipped with signal lines and is just clipped on. Lettering: Assembly and Wiring

Compact, modular I/O portfolio

ctrlX I/O offers a compact and modular I/O portfolio that can be accommodated in the control cabinet to save space. Up to 16 I/O points on 12 mm width allow a high density of input and output signals. The ergonomic mechanical design and tool-free assembly using push-in technology allow modules to be replaced quickly. Downtimes are minimized with a clever diagnostic concept at module and channel level. The robust system is designed with IP20 protection and enables maintenance-free and trouble-free operation in the control cabinet. Performance functions also offer flexible expandability of the system.

ctrlX AUTOMATION control-based automation architecture with the ctrlX CORE industrial controller, with ctrlX I/O . Also shown are external I/O stations, as well as ctrlX HMI and DRIVE. The caption reads: EtherCat based Architecture.

EtherCAT based architecture

The system enables connection to EtherCAT, one of the largest industrial ecosystems for I/Os, slaves and fieldbus devices. This allows real-time capable data processing at the machine control level. Other established communication standards such as IO-Link are also supported. Users benefit from an almost unlimited portfolio of powerful and freely combinable interfaces.

Reduced effort

The simulation of I/O and peripheral levels as well as the use of digital twins for offline commissioning are key to reducing engineering effort and the use of third-party devices. The ctrlX Configurator optimally supports the planner in selecting and configuring ctrlX I/O stations to quickly and easily arrive at a correct design.

Ready for the future

The solution is designed to be future-proof and thus open for future trends. Upgrades, remote updates and ongoing enhancements can be easily implemented. With the co-creation concept, partners can contribute to and benefit from the ecosystem by developing their own ctrlX I/O modules.

ctrlX I/O portfolio

Bosch Rexroth offers a suitable solution for every requirement:

Bus modules

  • EtherCAT bus coupler
  • EtherCAT extension

 

System modules

  • Potential distribution
  • Powerfeeder UP diagnosis / passive
  • Blank housing

Digital Inputs

  • 4 / 8 / 16 channel
  • DC 24V, 3 ms input filter
  • 1- / 2-wire technology

 

Digital Outputs

  • 2 / 4 / 8 / 16 channel
  • DC 24V
  • 0.5 A / 2.0A
  • Relais 230 VAC - 1A
  • 1- / 2-wire technology

Analog Inputs

  • 2 / 4 channel
  • -10V to +10V | 0V to +10V
  • 0 to 20mA | 4 to 20mA
  • Thermocouple (TC)
  • Resistor (RTD)
  • 16 Bit resolution

Analog Outputs

  • 2 / 4 channel
  • -10Vto +10V | 0V to +10V
  • 0 to 20mA | 4 to 20mA
  • 16 Bit resolution

 

 

General Motion Control

By using ctrlX AUTOMATION in general motion control applications, users benefit from a compact system with minimum footprint, smart apps and motion modules, as well as safe and flexible operation. This is especially important for tasks in the field of robotics and handling.

Further application examples:

IOT & PLC, Performance Motion Control, Manufacturing, Smart Energy

General Motion Control

By using ctrlX AUTOMATION in general motion control applications, users benefit from a compact system with minimum footprint, smart apps and motion modules, as well as safe and flexible operation. This is especially important for tasks in the field of robotics and handling.

Further application examples:

IOT & PLC, Performance Motion Control, Manufacturing, Smart Energy

More information regarding the modular I/O portfolio ctrlX I/O

Configurator
Rexroth Store
Documentation
Community
Opened copy of the ctrlX AUTOMATION magazine 2023/2024

ctrlX AUTOMATION Magazine 2023/2024 –
Now available!

„Openness is everything“ ­– this is the motto of the ctrlX AUTOMATION magazine 2023/2024. This year, it´s all about openness and co-creation, which enables a completely new world of automation. Furthermore, there will be innovations of the product portfolio, exciting case studies and expert opinions on digitalization and connectivity.

More information!