A motion control system that has it all covered – from the simple to the highly complex

November 27, 2018

Rexroth’s motion control system MLC: new embedded controller for high-end solutions simplifies system architecture. Using a scalable approach, motion control system MLC can control between 2 and 192 synchronous axes.

With its motion control solutions, Bosch Rexroth is breaking the mold when it comes to automation. The new embedded control XM42 tops the motion kit off perfectly. The motion control system MLC can now control up to 192 synchronized axes. As such, with the same engineering and software core, it covers the entire range from cost-effective entry-level solutions for straightforward handling applications right through to complex solutions involving robotics and hydraulics. The system software includes numerous pre-defined technology functions that only need to be parameterized.

In the case of simple applications and coordinated hardware, the wizard-supported Generic Application Template (GAT) speeds up commissioning. As a result, users can create synchronized axis motions within a matter of minutes which GAT automatically converts into PLC code. For more complex applications, numerous pre-defined functions, such as winding and register control, belt synchronization and various different robotic kinematics simplify fast engineering.

With the new, extremely high-performance hardware variant XM42, users decide, simply by selecting the corresponding software package, whether they want to synchronize up to 64, 128 or 192 axes. The embedded control XM42 is based on the latest cutting-edge dual core chip technology and is therefore a high-performance controller. This reduces complexity in new and existing concepts as machine manufacturers can now bundle tasks, previously allocated to several controllers, centrally at one point. In addition to considerably less wiring work, reducing the number of controllers down to one also streamlines machine software and commissioning. With OPC UA, all MLC solutions can now be integrated into connected environments and the Internet of Things.

For more information, check https://www.boschrexroth.com/en/xc/company/press/index2-33536.

Related Articles

Editor’s Pick: Featured Article

Weidmüller’s u-control 2000: The Automation Controller

Weidmüller’s u-control 2000: The Automation Controller

Weidmüller’s scalable engineering software, u-control 2000, adapts individually to your requirements. And, the u-control is powerful, compact and fully compatible with Weidmüller’s I/O system u-remote. This article looks at what makes u-control the heart of your automation.

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are one of the main components of any automated system. A typical control system has inputs, outputs, controllers (i.e., PLCs), and some type of human interaction with the system, a human machine interface (HMI), for example.

Read More

Latest Articles

  • Comparing maxon EC-i vs ECX Motors: Which One Fits Your Design?

    August 19, 2025 The choice between maxon’s EC-i and ECX motor series depends on whether the application prioritizes torque or speed, rugged durability or quick responsiveness, and high load-handling capability or low-inertia performance. Both maxon product lines use brushless DC motor technology but are engineered with distinct rotor architectures and performance envelopes. This comparison outlines… Read More…

  • HMI and Edge Computing: The New Dynamic Duo Delivering Instant Insights to Drive Industrial Success

    August 18, 2025 By Ali Haj Fraj The landscape of industrial automation has undergone a seismic shift over the past few decades, and so has Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI). Once simple interfaces, allowing operators to control machinery through basic visual representations, industrial HMIs have evolved into advanced systems that allow the user to do so much… Read More…