Free-floating transport platforms - movers - are moved on a horizontally, vertically or overhead oriented work surface. Each mover operates in six degrees of freedom with high speed and precision, without any friction or contamination. Integration into the ctrlX Automation modular automation system results in a complete solution with a compact control system and apps to expand the range of functions.

A planar system serves as a contactless hovering system for the efficient and safe transportation, positioning and handling of a payload. Several movers of different shapes and sizes, each in six dimensions, can be controlled on a modular, customizable work surface. This is made possible by powerful, specially arranged permanent magnets. Due to their modularity and easy adaptability, planar systems can be used in numerous industrial sectors, for example in the semiconductor industry, the food industry, the pharmaceutical industry or in assembly systems.

ctrlX ^Flow6D opens up new scope for action and innovative concepts for production systems. Bosch Rexroth has equipped the system with numerous features that clearly set it apart from conventional technology. Significantly larger movement ranges such as 20 mm floating height, 10° tilting angle and endless rotation at any location set new standards. The six degrees of freedom of the movers can be combined with each other as required, for example turning and tilting during movement. Vertical or overhead operation of the system is also possible.

The movers are networked: Users have access to power and data on the floating platform. A mover can be transformed into an active agent by equipping it with actuators, sensors and handling components.

These and other features enable completely new system concepts and workflows. For example, movers can be operated in a process chamber, transport and process tasks can be seamlessly combined and transport systems can be standardized. The additional degrees of freedom allow savings to be made in the peripherals, making the system more compact and cost-effective.

"ctrlX ^Flow6D is the backbone of flexible and efficient production. As an open system, it can interact seamlessly with different plants and systems. Software-controlled production enables rapid adaptation to changed products or processes," explains Steffen Winkler, Sales Manager of the Automation & Electrification Solutions business unit at Bosch Rexroth.

By embedding ctrlX ^Flow6D in its automation world, Bosch Rexroth is creating a holistic, agile system. "ctrlX AUTOMATION provides the software platform for design, simulation, engineering, operation and service. With ctrlX Core, we offer a compact and powerful controller that enables users to make optimum use of the new planar system technology. New functions can be easily added as apps via the ctrlX Store. This allows the potential of hovering to be fully exploited," says Steffen Winkler.