Using the standard as a foundation, Bosch Rexroth Singapore developed a technology that facilitates seamless communication across industrial systems, allowing clients to gain full control of their factory floors for data and energy monitoring.

ctrlX AUTOMATION is an automation technology that utilises SS IEC 62541 as its foundation for data exchange – seen here is the toolkit. 

About the Company

Bosch Rexroth Singapore is a subsidiary of Bosch Rexroth, a global engineering firm headquartered in Lohr am Main, Germany, specialising in automation solutions for factory, industrial and mobile applications. A key focus of the company is developing innovative solutions to enhance the energy efficiency of machines and plants. 

Jason Lee,  Automation & Electrification Sales, Southeast Asia, Bosch Rexroth

Bringing Machine Communications to the Next Level

Launched in 2019, ctrlX AUTOMATION is one of Bosch Rexroth Singapore's leading automation solutions. Its open, flexible architecture offers a modular and scalable approach to system automation, enabling seamless integration of apps, third-party software and multiple programming languages into existing systems.

ctrlX AUTOMATION leverages SS IEC 62541 – Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) to ensure secure, reliable and platform-independent data exchange between software, machines and devices. This allows for seamless interoperability across a wide range of systems. ctrlX AUTOMATION is currently utilised in industries such as automation and material handling. 

Business Benefits of Adopting SS IEC 62541

1. Enable Interoperability

In the past, OPC technology was confined to Microsoft platforms, limiting server and client installations to Windows systems and networks. SS IEC 62541 overcomes this limitation with a standardised communication framework. Bosch Rexroth Singapore utilises this framework in ctrlX AUTOMATION, enabling seamless data exchange between diverse software – regardless of the manufacturer – for its clients.

“The standard grants our ctrlX AUTOMATION platform greater independence and interoperability, opening up new opportunities for us to deliver innovative solutions to our clients,” says Mr Jason Lee, Automation & Electrification Sales, Southeast Asia, Bosch Rexroth.

Since its launch in 2019, the ctrlX AUTOMATION technology has experienced a 40% increase in adoption rate. 

2. Go beyond software to machine communications 

In Industry 4.0, it is crucial for machines – such as sensors and industrial devices – not just software, to communicate and function like services. These machines can then provide specific functions and data over a network. Bosch Rexroth Singapore taps SS IEC 62541 in ctrlX AUTOMATION to enable seamless machine interoperability. For instance, with the SS IEC 62541 framework, ctrlX AUTOMATION can connect with machines like smart meters to provide real-time energy usage data. It also integrates with HVAC systems for comprehensive building-level monitoring. 

3. Meet market demand

In Industry 4.0, two market needs stand out: energy monitoring for production machines and visibility into machine utilisation and status. These needs are driven by rising energy costs, prompting businesses to adapt quickly to maintain productivity and sustainability.

ctrlX AUTOMATION addresses these needs by enabling software-, machine- and building-level monitoring, where systems communicate seamlessly via SS IEC 62541, which then provides data to clients for full visibility into their energy consumption across their facilities.

“The data from ctrlX AUTOMATION gives our clients complete control over their machines and buildings,” Mr Lee explains. “They can optimise machine efficiency and better manage building factors such as heating, ventilation and cooling systems to reduce costs.”

This approach has delivered significant benefits for Bosch Rexroth Singapore’s clients. One client saw a 20% increase in productivity through automated machine monitoring, while another saved up to $500 per month through improved building monitoring. 

ctrlX AUTOMATION installed for use on an industrial floor. 

Aligning with Industry 4.0 and IIoT Trends

SS IEC 62541 allows Bosch Rexroth Singapore to confidently enter the Industry 4.0 and IIoT markets, positioning itself as a competitive player with the ctrlX AUTOMATION solution.

Mr Lee says, “The standard enables us to integrate diverse technologies from the machine to the building level, which is essential in helping our clients create smart factories of the future. SS IEC 62541 forms the foundation for real-time data exchange, improved automation and advanced analytics. By harnessing these capabilities, ctrlX AUTOMATION empowers our clients to drive efficiency, flexibility and scalability in their modern industrial environments.”