Grossenbacher Automation extends ctrlX OS Ecosystem with Smart Panels, Web Panels and Smart Controllers
- Grossenbacher Automation is the latest ctrlX OS OEM partner
- Smart Panels, Web Panels and Smart Controllers: HMI-PLC, HMI and control systems for flexible automation concepts
- Standardized solutions reduce engineering, commissioning and time to market
Bosch Rexroth has welcomed Swiss company Grossenbacher Automation AG as a new OEM partner for ctrlX OS. Grossenbacher Automation AG offers Smart Panel and Web Panel solutions as well as Smart Controllers based on the open Linux operating system ctrlX OS with ARM CPUs. In this way, it is expanding the ctrlX OS Ecosystem to include ready-to-use HMI-PLCs, HMI and control solutions for mechanical and plant engineering as well as other general automation applications. This enables companies to realize automation projects more quickly and with a lower engineering outlay.
“With Grossenbacher Automation our OEM network has gained a partner that develops and markets its own Smart Panels, Web Panels and Smart Controllers based on ctrlX OS. In this way, the ctrlX OS Ecosystem is being expanded to include additional automation solutions ready for series production. This gives users even more options to build their systems according to their own requirements without having to rely on different operating systems or proprietary software ecosystems," explains Steffen Winkler, Senior Vice President Sales Business Unit Automation & Electrification Solutions at Bosch Rexroth.
Steffen Winkler, Vertriebsleitung Business Unit Automation & Electrification Solutions bei Bosch Rexroth begrüßt Oliver Roth, Chairman of the Board, Grossenbacher Automation AG als neuen ctrlX OS OEM Partner. (Bildquelle: Bosch Rexroth AG)
HMI, visualization and control
While some applications require HMI and control functions within a single device, others make use of separate control and visualization layers. Grossenbacher Automation addresses both requirements with an all-in-one concept based on ctrlX OS.
Acting as an HMI-PLC, the Smart Panel combines visualization and control functions in a single ARM-based device. A software PLC can be integrated via the CODESYS-based PLC app for ctrlX OS. For distributed architectures, the Web Panel complements control systems such as the ctrlX CORE X3 or X5, enabling web-based visualization. The Smart Controller is a compact real-time industrial controller designed for automation tasks and rounds out the assortment in the lower performance range. This allows various machine concepts to be implemented and scaled on a unified platform.
Open software platform reduces development outlay
The app-based approach of ctrlX OS means functions can be added as required and existing solutions expanded on a flexible basis. This opens up new and innovative software concepts in automation – such as the seamless combination of Python-based apps with a classic soft PLC. At the same time, open interfaces such as OPC UA, MQTT and the ctrlX Data Layer enable straightforward integration into machines as well as higher-level MES, SCADA and cloud systems.
As the Smart Panel, Web Panel and Smart Controller are available as standard products, customers can start implementing their concepts immediately. These solutions can be deployed flexibly across a wide range of applications – from mechanical and plant engineering to process engineering and building automation – and adapted to specific application requirements as necessary.
They are based on ctrlX OS, which has been configured to meet the requirements of the Cyber Resilience Act and is certified to IEC 62443-4-2 Security Level 2. This provides a secure, updateable platform that supports manufacturers and engineers in meeting the regulatory requirements while also enabling the implementation of innovative automation software on a contemporary and maintainable basis.
“With ctrlX OS, we have found a platform that allows us to build our vision for Grossenbacher Automation. Grossenbacher Automation emerged in 2025 from Grossenbacher Systeme AG, which was launched over 30 years ago. This means we are combining decades of experience with a contemporary open software platform for automation. We aren’t building isolated solutions – we’re developing forward-looking products that integrate seamlessly into differing environments,” explains Oliver Roth, Chairman of the Board, Grossenbacher Automation AG.
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.
To learn more, please visit www.boschrexroth.com
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 412,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2025). According to preliminary figures, 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, 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 82,000 associates in research and development.
Additional information is available online at www.bosch-press.com, www.bosch-mobility.com, www.bosch.com
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