Safe tire handling in connected production

More freedom is impossible: ctrlX AUTOMATION from Bosch Rexroth with open software architecture, free choice of programming language and app technology (Image Source: Bosch Rexroth AG)

New automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION from Bosch Rexroth meets all requirements for the use in the tire industry

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Tire manufacturers are looking for automation solutions that integrate seamlessly into their IT systems while providing protection against hacker attacks and data theft. The new automation platform ctrlX AUTOMATION from Bosch Rexroth meets these requirements, is also extremely compact and designed for the harsh environmental conditions in tire production.

ctrlX AUTOMATION is the first automation platform that was developed explicitly for connected applications and the use in the Internet of Things (IoT). It uses the extensive ecosystem of EtherCAT for field communication and fits into connected environments with more than 30 direct connection options to IT and IoT. It also communicates with MES and ERP systems via OPC UA and MQTT.

The entire automation platform is Secure by Design and complies with the IT security standards according to IEC 62443. The system software offers increased protection against viruses and Trojans. An integrated firewall enables the encrypted transmission of data via VPN and secure remote services. Via the ctrlX Device Portal from Bosch Rexroth, users can centrally manage all intelligent components of ctrlX AUTOMATION and install security updates and new functions from any location. In Secure Production Mode, the system maximizes productivity through non-reactive updates of, for example, IoT functions during the production process.

The first users, amongst others in the tire industry, are already starting to integrate the drives, which are up to 50 percent more compact than the previous generation, into their plants. In the case of large gantries for the stacking of tires, these drives travel in control cabinets. The new compactness reduces the design effort in the mechanics and the low weight leads to energy savings with every movement in daily operation. The ctrlX CORE control system, which is fully integrated into the drive, does not require any additional installation space.

Both the ctrlX DRIVE drives and the ctrlX CORE control system have proven their suitability for use in tire production. The results of the mixed gas test correspond to the resistance of 10 years of class G3 (aggressive) of ANSI/ISA 71.04-2013.

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 Applications, Machinery Applications and Engineering, and Factory Automation. With its intelligent components, customized system solutions 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, more than 32,300 associates generated sales revenue of roughly 6.2 billion euros in 2018.