Extrusion device for processing and / or preparing compositions

Abstract

Extrusion device (1) for processing and / or preparing compositions, comprising a housing (11) forming a working area (A) and receiving at least two rotatable feed elements (3, 4) therein, at least one feed opening (12, 12.1 to 12.n) connected to the working area (A) for feeding a composition and with at least one shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) at the end of the working area (A) for discharging the extrudate, characterized by the fact that the function of the input (19E) of a transfer case (19) is already taken over by one of at least two second drive shafts (21.1, 21.2) such that each of the at least two feed elements (3, 4) is detachably connected to one of the at least two second drive shafts (21.1, 21.2), wherein one of the at least two second drive shafts (21.1, 21.2) is coupled to a first drive shaft (18) of a drive unit (5) which is mounted in a drive shaft bearing housing (14) outside the working area (A), one of the at least two drive shafts (21.1, 21.2) which is coupled to the first drive shaft (18) is arranged to drive the other of the at least two drive shafts (21.1, 21.2), and the housing (11) is made in one piece and is connected to the drive shaft bearing housing (14) via a detachable connection (16).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an extrusion device, in particular for wet and / or melt extrusion for processing and / or preparing compositions to form extrudate, comprising a housing forming a working area and accommodating at least one, preferably at least two, feed elements rotatable therein, at least one feed opening connected to the working area for feeding a composition and at least one shaping opening at the end of the working area for discharging the extrudate, wherein the at least one feed element is detachably connected to a drive shaft of a drive unit which is mounted in a drive shaft bearing housing outside the working area.

[0002] A generic method for producing a wear-resistant layer in the screw housing of a twin-screw extruder is known from DE 31 40 188 A1. The screw housing of the twin-screw extruder has a working chamber for accommodating two screws arranged side by side in a plane. The working chamber consists of two adjacent, longitudinally extending, and intertwined bores and has a cross-sectional border in the shape of an open "8."

[0003] Furthermore, a screw press for extruding synthetic resins is known from DE 25 15 866 A1, and a device for changing an extrusion cylinder of an extruder is known from DE 10 2004 040 186 B3, both of which show a detachable connection of a plasticizing cylinder to a drive housing. One-piece cylinder housings are also known from DE 39 36 438 A1 and DE 44 45 149 A1.

[0004] A composition within the meaning of the invention is understood to be a substance or mixture of substances. The individual substance and / or the mixture of substances can be in the liquid state, in particular as a suspension, in the solid state, in particular as granules, powder, or in the semi-solid state, in particular pasty state. The individual composition to be extruded forms the starting material for the extrusion process and is referred to as the material to be extruded. The result of an extrusion process is what is known as an extrudate, which is subjected to further processing and / or treatment steps to produce the desired end product in strand form or in a form already separated from the strand as an intermediate product or semi-finished product, or is already present as the end product in a form separated from the strand if a separating device is arranged directly at or after the outlet from the shaping opening.In the pharmaceutical sector, when producing medicines, the resulting final product is also referred to as a formulation. It contains at least one active ingredient that must be released within a specific timeframe.

[0005] Processing the composition within the meaning of the invention essentially refers to the shaping of the extrudate. The treatment or preparation of the material to be extruded involves physical and / or chemical processes, such as mixing, melting, and chemical reactions between the materials to be extruded.

[0006] It is known to produce pharmaceuticals in a form referred to as a formulation directly by extrusion or from a formulation intermediate present at the end of the extrusion process by post-processing or post-treatment. Extrusion results in either multiparticulate forms or granules, particularly when narrow die diameters are used, or tablets when wide die openings are employed, which can then be directly formed into tablets in a calender by post-processing. To determine the optimal composition and dosage form, particularly when the active ingredient contained in the composition is poorly soluble or poorly permeable, and therefore complex excipient mixtures are necessary to achieve sufficient bioavailability, a large number of tests are required in the development of such formulations.Producing the largest possible number of different dosage forms for optimal optimization requires very large quantities of substance for typical batch sizes. This is problematic because often only very small amounts of active ingredients are available for these experiments and / or the required test materials are very expensive. The entire formulation development process is therefore very complex and often very costly.

[0007] When using extrusion equipment to prepare formulations during formulation development, it is imperative to clean it whenever the individual composition to be extruded and / or the treatment parameters used during extrusion change to achieve extrudates with high repeatability. To achieve this, the extrusion equipment must be easily disassembled and very easy to clean in order to operate economically, especially when using small batch sizes with modified compositions to create new formulation trials. Extrusion equipment is available in a wide variety of state-of-the-art designs for producing extrudates for a wide variety of applications.Particularly advantageous are often so-called twin-screw extruders, which have two identical or counter-rotating feed elements, i.e., conveying elements in the form of screws, which are guided through the barrel and move the material to be extruded towards a shaping opening. Common twin-screw extruders in standard design are characterized by a diameter in the range of 16 mm to 18 mm, a drive unit 1 m to 2 m long, and weigh more than 100 kg. The required minimum batch size for these is approximately 50 g per recipe. Due to the large batch sizes and the resulting high waste rate, these devices are particularly unsuitable for the processing and preparation of very expensive and hard-to-obtain materials. Disassembling and cleaning the extrusion device is very complex and time-consuming.Timely or short-term changes in composition and / or extrusion parameters are not possible with this type of design. Furthermore, such extrusion devices are only suitable for the processing and treatment of hazardous substances to a limited extent and require complex safety precautions.

[0008] The trend is therefore toward smaller extruders, characterized by feed element diameters ranging from 7.5 mm to 16 mm. The housing typically consists of several subunits that are interconnected to form the housing. The individual subunits are arranged one after the other in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device or are divided vertically and are usually clamped together using fasteners, particularly screw connections.However, in melt extrusion, where the extrudate mass is not only plasticized but also actually melted, this leads to significant leakage problems. These leaks cause the material to be extruded to leak between the individual housing segments and, in the presence of an additional metering device, in the area where it is coupled to the feed opening. This leakage results in undefined extrudate results and also in contamination of the extrusion device, which precludes its use for extruding hazardous substances and increases the cleaning effort. Due to the type of connection, disassembly for cleaning purposes is very complex and time-consuming.Furthermore, with barrels consisting of a single piece lengthwise and multiple sub-units vertically, the very high heat transfer within the barrel makes it impossible to set steep temperature gradients between individual sections. This is a significant disadvantage, particularly in melt extrusion. A unit of this type with sub-units divided vertically and connected to one another via clamp connections, but which only offers screws made from a single piece, is already known, for example, from the company brochure of MPR Material Processing and Research Incorporation: "World's Smallest Twin Screw Extruder www.mprus.com / en / documents / mini.php", a printout dated December 17, 2008. Due to the required defined arrangement of the individual feed elements relative to one another, the structural design is very complex.

[0009] The invention is therefore based on the object of creating an extrusion device suitable for extruding batch quantities of less than 50 g, in particular in the range from 0.3 g to 20 g, particularly preferably from 0.5 g to 10 g, and thus an extrusion device in miniaturized form, which is characterized by a simple structure, short assembly and disassembly times, easy cleaning and maintenance, and the possibility of setting steep temperature gradients over the entire longitudinal extent of the working area. In particular, for use in obtaining extrudates in the form of formulations or formulation intermediates in the pharmaceutical sector, a very high degree of tightness of the housing design is important in order to ensure, in particular, high repeatability with regard to the resulting extrudates and stability of the extrusion conditions.

[0010] The inventive solution is characterized by the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the subclaims.

[0011] The extrusion device according to the invention for processing and / or preparing compositions, comprising a housing forming a working area and accommodating at least two feed elements rotatable therein, at least one feed opening connected to the working area for feeding a composition and at least one shaping opening at the end of the working area for dispensing the extrudate, is characterized in that each of the at least two feed elements is detachably connected to one of at least two second drive shafts, wherein one of the at least two second drive shafts is coupled to a first drive shaft of a drive unit which is mounted in a drive shaft bearing housing outside the working area, that one of the at least two drive shafts which is coupled to the first drive shaft is arranged toto drive the other of the at least two drive shafts and to generate a counter-rotation of the at least two drive shafts by engagement with a gear located on the other of the at least two drive shafts, and that the housing is designed as a single piece and is connected to the drive shaft bearing housing via a detachable connection.

[0012] Advantageously, the function of the input of a typically required transfer case is already taken over by one of the drive shafts for the individual feed elements, which eliminates the need for a transfer case according to the invention and provides a particularly space-saving solution. The one-piece housing design and the associated reduction in connection points increase the tightness of the system, ensuring stable extrusion conditions without material loss and thus a high degree of repeatability.

[0013] The working area is understood to be the area of ​​the extrusion device that encompasses the supply of the composition, the area of ​​influence on the composition, and the feed at least until it enters the shaping opening, preferably until the extrusion result in the form of the extrudate exits the shaping opening. This is generally described by the interior of the housing that accommodates the feed elements. The single-piece design of the housing refers to the extent of the working area, i.e., the part enclosing the feed elements, so that the housing is easy to handle.

[0014] The inventive solution with a one-piece housing design and the possibility of coupling the housing via a quick-release connection to the drive shaft bearing housing for fixing the position of the housing relative to the feed elements, combined with the coupling of the drive shaft to the individual feed element, offers the advantage of rapid assembly and disassembly of the extrusion device while maintaining a very compact design. The rapid assembly and disassembly of the individual feed elements and the housing make it possible to quickly and easily separate and clean these functional elements, which are essential for the extrusion process. The compact design with its small size, which is supported by these features, also allows it to be used in an isolator and is therefore suitable for the extrusion of hazardous substances under isolation conditions.

[0015] Regarding the specific design of the individual connections, there are basically a multitude of options. In one advantageous embodiment, the detachable connection between the drive shaft bearing housing and the housing is designed as a quick-release coupling device to reduce assembly and disassembly times. The detachable connection can be implemented as a force-locking connection, preferably a clamping connection, particularly preferably a Tri-Clamp connection. This is a force-locking connection in the radial and / or circumferential direction. This allows for a secure and tight connection in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device with minimal force and a short handling time. Furthermore, standardized Tri-Clamp connecting elements, in particular clamping rings, can be used.Complex screw connections and the necessary threaded holes in at least one of the components to be connected can be eliminated.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the detachable connection between the drive shaft bearing housing and the housing can be designed as a positive connection or a combination of force and form fit.

[0017] Preferably, means are provided for sealing the working area from the drive shaft bearing housing in order to completely prevent leaks and the influence of ambient conditions on the extrusion process. Sealing is achieved by means of sealing surfaces forming sealing pairs. These sealing pairs are arranged on the connecting means of the detachable connection, which are arranged on the housing side and / or the drive shaft bearing housing side and can be brought into operative connection with one another. These sealing pairs form sealing pairs directly with one another or with separate sealing devices arranged between them. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a separate, replaceable sealing device is provided between the detachable connection and the drive shaft bearing housing and / or the drive shaft. This can be easily replaced if necessary.

[0018] If the sealing device is designed as an integral component with the individual connecting elements assigned to the housing or the drive shaft bearing housing, the number of required sealing pairs and thus the potential for leakage can be reduced.

[0019] The connection of the individual drive shaft to the feed element is preferably also in the form of a quickly detachable connection. This connection can be realized by positive locking and / or frictional locking. The connection is rotationally fixed in the circumferential direction and secured in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device. The functions of the rotationally fixed connection and axial locking can be assigned to different connecting elements in a functionally separate manner or, in a particularly advantageous embodiment, in an integral form to the same connecting elements, whereby the connection area can be kept very compact. According to a particularly simple embodiment, the connection can be realized as a bayonet connection or as a combined plug-in connection with axial locking, preferably a bayonet lock.

[0020] The at least one shaping opening in the end region of the housing arranged in the feed direction of the material to be extruded forms the outlet opening for the extrudate and can be characterized by a cross-sectional and / or geometric change extending in the feed direction. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, this forms a nozzle.

[0021] The shaping opening at the end of the working area is either formed integrally with the housing in the wall of the end area located in the feed direction or, according to a particularly advantageous further development, is formed by an element, in particular a nozzle plate, that can be detachably connected to the housing and forms a shaping opening. This can be easily removed for cleaning purposes. Interchangeability offers the advantage of simple and quick adaptation to a wide variety of extrusion requirements, particularly regarding the geometry and / or dimensions of the outlet opening. Furthermore, this option offers the advantage of combining a standardized housing with a wide variety of extrusion nozzles to achieve a high degree of extrudate diversity.

[0022] The connection between the nozzle plate and the housing is made by force or form fit, whereby the connection is designed in such a way that it preferably also assumes a sealing function or further sealing means can be provided between the nozzle plate and the housing.

[0023] The nozzle plate is designed and dimensioned to ensure high stability even under extrusion conditions. This is preferably characterized by a minimum thickness of ≥ 6 mm.

[0024] As a rule, the shaping opening is aligned with the feed direction, i.e. the interior space and the adjoining shaping opening are aligned. An eccentric arrangement between the interior space and the shaping opening is also conceivable, particularly when a plurality of shaping openings is provided. In the case of formulations that are difficult to extrude, the distance over which the extrudate is only pushed passively in the outlet channel by pressure must be minimized in order to prevent the outlet channel from becoming blocked. However, since the nozzle plate must be at least approx. 6 mm thick to ensure sufficient mechanical stability, in a preferred embodiment the feed elements project into the element forming the shaping opening, in particular the nozzle plate, so that the outlet channel formed by the nozzle formed in this way is preferably only approx.1.5 mm to 3 mm long or between 1 / 6 and 1 / 2 the thickness of the element forming the shaping opening.

[0025] The interior space accommodating the feed elements and the shaping opening can be arranged and aligned such that, according to a first embodiment, the feed direction for the material to be extruded occurs without any change of direction until it exits the extrusion device, or according to a further second embodiment, with a change of direction. In the latter case, the shaping opening is aligned at an angle to the interior of the housing. This solution offers the advantage of adapting the position of the exit from the shaping opening to the functional units that further process the extrudate. Such a design with an exit opening at an angle to the feed direction is particularly advantageous when rapid further processing in a calender is desired.This allows the formulation intermediate, which is present as an extrudate, to be fed to the functional elements of the further processing unit in a space-saving manner without intermediate guides.

[0026] There are no restrictions regarding the design of the cross-sectional area of ​​the forming opening. Circular cross-sectional areas are particularly advantageous.

[0027] The housing is constructed in one piece in the longitudinal and circumferential directions and has an interior formed by a through-opening that accommodates the feed elements. The through-opening preferably has a cross-section that is adapted to the outer shape of the feed elements, particularly the screws, with only minimal clearance of approximately 10-200 µm. In a twin-screw extruder, this is, for example, a figure-eight cross-section. Other cross-sectional shapes are conceivable, particularly depending on the arrangement and number of feed elements.

[0028] The geometric shape of the housing can be designed in a variety of ways. The housing is preferably cylindrical, oval, or cuboid, with the longitudinal design occurring in the installed position in the extrusion device with or without cross-sectional changes. The cylindrical design, with a longitudinally constant housing and interior cross-section, offers the advantage of consistent external boundary conditions for the extrusion process across the entire working area. The cuboid design offers the advantage that heating and / or cooling elements can be easily inserted and positioned, and a partial surface of the outer circumference can simultaneously serve as a base for the housing in the installed position.

[0029] The housing can be designed with or without a cross-sectional change in the longitudinal direction describing the extrusion direction. In an advantageous embodiment, the housing has at least one circumferentially extending notch on the outer circumference of the working area, which runs along the outer circumference of the housing and partially divides the housing into individual housing segments in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device. These individual segments can be assigned to different functional areas of the working area and optimized based on the different temperature gradients in these areas. The temperature transition between the individual housing segments can be greatly minimized by the notches, so that the required temperatures can be precisely adjusted and maintained in the individual housing segments.The arrangement and function of the incisions is selected for the respective housing depending on the structure and functioning of such an extrusion device, in order to be able to adjust the temperatures according to the requirements and free from influence by the adjacent functional areas, particularly in the dosing area, in the actual working area in which the material to be extruded is processed and prepared while being fed, for example melted, mixed, homogenized or treated in another way, as well as in the outlet area for the material to be extruded.

[0030] The housing is provided with means for influencing the temperature in the working area and thus, at least indirectly, the temperature of the material to be extruded. For this purpose, heating and / or cooling devices can preferably be assigned to the individual functional sections of the working area and can be coupled to the housing. Depending on the housing configuration, the heating and / or cooling of individual areas of the working area can be implemented in different ways. A distinction is made between designs with heat transfer and heat radiation, with a heat transfer medium and / or heat transfer medium acting either only on the outer circumference of the housing and / or in the housing wall.

[0031] In the simplest case, the temperature is influenced by the arrangement of heating and / or cooling devices on the outer circumference of the housing, which in this case is preferably round or oval. A distinction is made here between the arrangement of heating and / or cooling devices that either only partially or completely enclose the housing in the circumferential direction on a portion of the length of the working area. In the latter case, the individual heating and / or cooling device can either be designed as a one-piece component that can be pushed separately onto the outer circumference, the positioning of which describes a local effective area over the length of the working area, or the enclosure in the circumferential direction is achieved by the series connection of individual heating and / or cooling devices in the circumferential direction on the outer circumference of the housing.Partial enclosure in the circumferential direction allows for the generation of strong local temperature changes. Complete enclosure by one or more heating and / or cooling devices connected in series in the circumferential direction offers the advantage of providing uniform conditions in the circumferential direction in a subsection of the working area.

[0032] The one-piece design allows the housing to be constructed with a thin wall thickness to ensure sufficient mechanical stability. This design is particularly advantageous for cylindrical or oval housings with a ratio of the thickness of the wall surrounding the interior space containing the feed elements to the cross-section of the feed elements in the range of 0.3:1 to 1:1.5, preferably 0.35:1 to 1:1.

[0033] In designs with only partial enclosure of the outer circumference, the individual heating and / or cooling device comprises at least one heating and / or cooling element which is fastened to a central support device which in turn can be coupled to the housing, i.e. the connection of the heating and / or cooling elements to the housing is made indirectly via the support device. This is arranged relative to the housing in such a way that the heating and / or cooling elements fastened to it can be inserted into corresponding openings, blind bores or channels in the housing. In this way, so-called heating and / or cooling blocks can be formed from a large number of heating and / or cooling elements which can be easily separated from or connected to the housing in one work step.

[0034] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, for example, only one central support device can be provided for a housing, which has a grid to which the individual heating and / or cooling devices can be coupled in a predefined manner and which interact with corresponding openings in the respective housing areas formed by the segmentation, contacting or free of contact, in particular can be inserted or suspended into these. The grid for the heating and / or cooling elements on the support device and the openings provided on the housing can be standardized, with openings that are not currently required being closable, preferably pressure- and liquid-tight. Also conceivable are several individual support devices, each carrying a plurality of heating and / or cooling elements.

[0035] The individual heating and / or cooling elements, which can be attached to a support device, can be controlled individually or in groups. These can be electrical elements that achieve a heating or cooling effect by reversing the polarity, or they can be elements that carry other carrier media.

[0036] All mentioned embodiments of the allocation of means for at least indirectly influencing the temperature in the working area are characterized by simple addition and removal, free from complex heating or cooling coil arrangements.

[0037] The extrusion device comprises a housing with at least one feed opening, preferably a plurality of feed openings, which can be arranged at any location in the circumferential direction and / or distributed longitudinally. The spaced-apart arrangement in the longitudinal direction offers the advantage of forming formulations formed from differently treated compositions, for example, by adding another composition containing an active ingredient at a later time to an already pretreated, for example, mixed, blended, and / or mechanically compacted material.

[0038] The available feed options offer the advantage of producing extrudates from a variety of compositions that can be mixed and / or reacted with each other in the working area. Feed openings not currently in use can be sealed using closure devices.

[0039] The individual feed opening can be coupled to a dosing device. The coupling is preferably mechanical and sealed. Rotary dosing devices or piston dosing devices are used as dosing devices. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, these are inserted into the feed opening in the connection area and connected to it, whereby the connection can be force- and / or positive-locking. The outlet of the dosing device thus extends into the area of ​​the interior space accommodating the feed elements and, in a particularly advantageous embodiment, opens into this space.

[0040] In order to have the corresponding formulation in the final state in the corresponding shape, this can be formed according to a first embodiment, for example by separating it from the extrusion strand which emerges from the shaping opening. In this case, the extrusion device can preferably be combined with a separating device. This is preferably a mechanical separating device with mechanical separating elements which become effective on the strand in a specific time sequence. This can be achieved in different ways, for example by an alternating lifting movement towards and away from the strand or by arranging separating elements in the form of knives or other cutting elements which can be rotated around an axis. The shape of the final product in the longitudinal direction can be controlled via the movement of the separating elements, their number and the feed movement of the strand.

[0041] In a particularly advantageous further development, a calender can be arranged downstream of the outlet opening. This allows for further processing of the extrudate into tablet form.

[0042] There are a multitude of options regarding the design of the feed elements. In the simplest case, these are simply pure feed elements that enable a feed movement, i.e., conveying movement in one direction with simultaneous mixing. In conjunction with high pressure and a high temperature in the interior of the housing, a chemical and thermal effect on the material to be extruded can also occur. Furthermore, in a particularly advantageous manner, areas can also be provided on the feed element that perform additional functions, for example a mechanical effect, in particular kneading or improving mixing. According to a first embodiment, the feed element can be designed as an integral structural unit.This has at least a first end region, which acts as a connection region with the drive shaft, while the remaining region is characterized by an external profiling that ensures the corresponding functions, in particular the feed movement and any additional functions.

[0043] According to a particularly advantageous further development, the individual feed element has a modular design. This modular design enables the individual functional areas to be arranged in a specific manner depending on the application requirements of the extrusion process, in particular for the feed movement and the functional areas responsible for other functions such as compacting, crushing and mixing. These differ in the geometry and dimensions of the processing or preparation elements arranged on the outer circumference. The modular design can be achieved by axially arranging and connecting the functional modules that form these functional areas, or by axially arranging them by sliding or plugging them onto a central base body, which usually also has a connection area to the drive shaft in the end area.The outer circumference of such a feed element is characterized by a profile adapted to the application requirements, usually a thread with a certain number of threads and pitch, toothing, profile or attached auxiliary elements.The disadvantage of the modular design compared to the feed elements made from a single piece, which consists in reduced mechanical stability due to the small possible wall thicknesses of the base body in the form of the shaft and the push-on modules, in particular at the coupling part of the shaft with the drive unit, in particular a drive gear, which becomes critical especially with very small diameters of the feed elements in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, is eliminated by the particularly preferred embodiment, which represents a combination of both systems, namely an integrally designed solid section of the base body in the coupling and filling area, in which only conveying has to take place anyway, and a modular area in the middle and front area, in which variable extrusion conditions are desirable.

[0044] The drive unit can be characterized by at least one drive motor and a downstream reduction unit. In designs with more than one feed element, a transfer case is usually provided, which can form an integral unit with the reduction gear. Other designs are also conceivable.

[0045] The feed elements can be driven in the same or opposite directions. In the latter case, one feed element can be coupled to the drive unit via the other feed element, i.e., one feed element directly drives the other.

[0046] The solution according to the invention can be used particularly advantageously for the production of formulation proposals in the pharmaceutical sector, since a desired end product in the form of an extrudate or an intermediate for further processing can be formed from small batch quantities. However, the solution according to the invention is not limited to the pharmaceutical sector.

[0047] The solution according to the invention is particularly advantageously suitable for producing miniaturized extrusion devices which are characterized by a ratio of the length of the housing to the maximum extent of the cross-sectional area of ​​the interior space accommodating the individual feed element perpendicular to the feed direction of the material to be extruded in the range from 5:1 to 30:1.

[0048] The inventive solution is explained below with reference to figures, which show the following in detail: Fig. 1 illustrates, by means of an exploded view, the basic structure of an extrusion device designed according to the invention using the example of a twin-screw extruder; Fig. 2 illustrates the structure of a drive unit in a simplified schematic representation; Fig. 3a to 3c show designs of feed elements; Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b illustrates the structure of a housing with a shaping opening; Fig. 5a illustrates an alternative orientation of the shaping opening; Fig. 5b shows an embodiment according to Fig. 5a using the example of a perspective view of a nozzle plate; Fig. 6 shows an advantageous housing design; Fig. 7 shows arrangements of feed openings; Fig. 8 illustrates an axial section of an embodiment of a piston dosing device; Fig. 9a and Fig. 9b illustrate advantageous embodiments of heating and / or cooling devices; Fig. 10a shows a first alternative embodiment of the heating and / or cooling devices for implementation according to the Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b; Fig. 10a shows a second alternative embodiment of the heating and / or cooling devices for implementation according to the Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b; Fig. 11a to 11c illustrate an embodiment of a separating device in three views; Fig. 12a and Fig. 12b shows a design of a calender in two views.

[0049] The Fig. Figure 1 illustrates, in a schematically simplified representation based on a perspective exploded view, the basic structure and the basic function of an apparatus according to the invention for extrudate production, in particular an extrusion apparatus 1 for use in the processing and / or preparation of compositions, in particular substances or mixtures of substances in the pharmaceutical sector for the preparation of formulations. The extrusion apparatus 1 is a device which is constructed and designed in such a way as to be suitable for transporting solid to viscous substances or mixtures of substances under high pressure and / or temperature and for pressing them evenly out of a shaping opening 7. This process usually takes place continuously. Fig. For the extrusion device 1 shown in Figure 1, a coordinate system has been created to clarify the directions used in the explanation, which is also retained for the other figures. The X-direction describes the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1 and corresponds to the conveying and, as a rule, also the ejection direction of the extrudate. The Y-direction corresponds to the width direction in a horizontal plane with the conveying direction, while the Z-direction describes the height direction. Fig. 1 shows, by way of example, a particularly advantageous embodiment in the form of a so-called twin-screw extruder 2 with high power density. The extrusion device 1 comprises at least two conveying devices in the form of feed elements 3, 4, in particular conveyor screws, which can be driven in the same direction or in opposite directions. Other embodiments are also conceivable. The feed elements 3, 4 are driven by means of a drive unit 5. For this purpose, the feed elements 3, 4 are coupled to it in a rotationally fixed manner. The coupling of the individual feed elements 3, 4 is effected at least indirectly and detachably to a drive shaft 18 of the drive unit 5, which is mounted in a drive shaft bearing housing 14, in the case shown to the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 which are connected indirectly to the drive shaft 18, i.e. via further transmission elements. The detachable connection is designated 15.The feed elements 3, 4 are guided through an extrudate forming unit 6 which defines a working area A and which, in cooperation with the feed elements 3, 4, forms a so-called screw press. In the extrudate forming unit 6, the compositions, in particular substances or mixtures of substances, are fed to the feed elements 3, 4, possibly processed, and transported to a shaping opening 7 located in the feed direction. For this purpose, the extrudate forming unit 6 has an interior space 9 through which the individual feed elements 3, 4 are guided free from contact with the inner wall of the extrudate forming unit 6 formed by the interior space 9, and at whose end region 10.2 located longitudinally in the conveying direction, the shaping opening 7 is arranged. This is designed by extending in the longitudinal direction with a changing cross-section, forming a nozzle 8.For this purpose, the extrudate forming unit 6 comprises a housing 11, in particular a so-called barrel, with a through-opening that describes the interior 9 in the feed direction and extends in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1, which serves to receive the feed elements 3, 4. The shaping opening 7 can be configured according to . Fig. 5a either directly from the housing 11 enclosed interior 9 of the extrudate forming unit 6 or from separate units 13 forming the shaping opening 7 in the end region 10.2 of the housing 11 according to Fig. 5b. The compositions to be extruded are processed and prepared within this housing 11. These are subjected to high pressure and, in the case of melt extrusion, also to high temperatures. The working area A is characterized by several different and sequentially connected functional areas, at least a feed or metering area, a feed area, and an outlet area formed by the nozzle 8.

[0050] For supplying the individual compositions, the housing 11 has at least one supply opening 12 coupled to the interior 9. Depending on the design, one or more such supply openings 12.1 to 12.n can be provided, which serve to supply different compositions, in particular substances and / or mixtures of substances, and thus also enable mixing within the extrudate formation unit 6 in cooperation with the feed elements 3, 4.

[0051] The extrusion device 1 is designed and dimensioned such that it is suitable for extruding very small quantities of compositions, in particular for producing batch quantities of 0.3 g - 20 g, preferably 0.5 g - 10 g. If larger quantities are required for special purposes, these can also be produced without problem using small extruders, since extrusion is a continuous process by extending the extrusion time. For this purpose, the diameter D of the individual feed elements 3, 4, in particular of the screws, is dimensioned such that its ratio to the length of the respective feed element 3, 4 is between 10:1 and 20:1, and the diameter D of the individual feed elements 3, 4 is in the range from 3 mm to ≤16 mm, preferably 4 mm to 9 mm, very particularly preferably 5 mm to 7.5 mm.In order to be able to operate such extrusion devices 1 in an economical manner, the invention provides for simplified assembly and disassembly, in particular for cleaning purposes, that the connection between the individual feed elements 3, 4 and the drive unit 5 is designed as a quickly detachable connection 15, the housing 11 of the extrudate formation unit 6 is designed in one piece and can be sealingly coupled to the drive shaft bearing housing 14 via a detachable connection 16. The connecting plane between the housing 11 and the drive shaft bearing housing 14 is arranged outside the working area A and upstream of it in the extrusion direction. The one-piece design of the housing 11 means a design as an integral unit both in the circumferential direction and in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1. The assembly and disassembly of the housing 11 can take place in a single work step.This combination of features enables rapid disassembly and easy cleaning of the individual components and functional units of the extrusion device 1. This allows even extremely small quantities in the above-mentioned weight range, which are particularly important when developing formulations in the pharmaceutical sector, to be produced economically. The use of active ingredients, in particular the quantity required for formulation development, can be minimized and adapted to actual requirements without any disadvantages regarding the handling of the extrusion device 1. Adjustments to the active ingredient quantities can be made quickly, so that the extrusion device 1 according to the invention is characterized by a high throughput per unit of time due to the short cleaning times, even with changing material to be extruded.

[0052] The Fig. 1 illustrates a particularly advantageous embodiment as a twin-screw extruder 2, in particular with regard to the design of the connection between the drive unit 5 and the feed elements 3, 4 as well as the housing 11 and the drive shaft bearing housing 14. The drive unit 5 comprises at least one drive motor 17, at least one drive shaft 18 of which is coupled to a distributor gear 19, which distributes the power to the individual feed elements 3, 4. Depending on the design and dimensioning of the distributor gear 19, the distribution can be evenly between both feed elements 3, 4 or differently. To reduce the drive speed, a reduction gear 20 is preferably arranged upstream of the distributor gear 19. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the distributor gear 19 and the reduction gear 20 are combined in one structural unit.The quick-release connection 15 between the individual feed elements 3, 4 and the drive unit 5 can be realized in a force-locking or form-locking manner, preferably as a quick-release coupling.

[0053] The quick-release connection 16 between the drive shaft bearing housing 14 and the housing 11 can also be implemented as a force-locking and / or form-locking connection. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a coupling device that can be actuated in one direction for closing is used. In the illustrated embodiment, the quick-release connection is designed as a clamp connection, in particular a Tri-Clamp connection, comprising at least one quick-release ring 16A. To prevent leaks, means 28 are provided for sealing between the connection 16 and the drive shaft bearing housing 14.

[0054] The housing 11 is characterized by a ratio of its length to the diameter of the interior space 9 in the range of 5:1 to 35:1. To further increase this ratio, it is possible to arrange several such housings 11 one behind the other in the axial direction. The coupling is then preferably also achieved via a quick-release coupling to the upstream housing 11.

[0055] Also visible are examples of bearing housings L1 to L3, which serve to support the drive shafts 18, 21.1, 21.2 on the drive side.

[0056] The Fig. 2 illustrates an advantageous embodiment of a drive unit 5 using a section from Fig. 1. The drive motor 17 can be designed in various ways. DC or AC motors are used. Stepper motors are particularly preferred because they can generate high power even at low speeds, do not require an additional reduction gear, and are therefore considerably smaller than AC motors for the same drive power. The drive shaft 18, which corresponds to the output shaft of the drive motor 17 or a reduction gear 20 arranged downstream of it, is coupled to the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 via a distributor gear 19, which distributes the drive power between the two feed elements 3, 4. The outputs of the distributor gear 19, designated here as 19A1 and 19A2, form the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 and, through their position and orientation, determine the relative position of the feed elements 3, 4, in particular their position and spacing within the extrusion device 1.

[0057] Commercially available mechanical gears can be used as the reduction gear 20, with the reduction ratio being selected such that the required speeds for the individual feed elements 3, 4 are achieved from the speed of the drive motor 17 in conjunction with frequency converters and the distribution gear 19. These speeds are in the range between 1 rpm and 700 rpm, preferably from 10 rpm to 350 rpm, most preferably from 50 rpm to 200 rpm.

[0058] The distribution gear 19, which serves to distribute the drive power in the desired manner to the feed elements 3, 4, either evenly or differently, can also be designed as a mechanical gear, whereby gear transmissions can preferably be used to ensure the function of the distribution gear 19 and the reduction gear 20. These enable, in addition to high precision, good power transmission with a relatively small design. Fig. In Figure 2, the reduction gear 20 and the transfer case 19 are shown in a separate configuration. However, in a particularly advantageous embodiment, it is also conceivable to combine this function in a single gear unit, which significantly shortens the structure, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1.

[0059] The use of gear drives offers the advantage of a fixed gear ratio, while the use of traction drives also allows for variable adjustment, although this advantage comes with the disadvantage of a larger design.

[0060] The feed elements 3, 4 can be driven in the same or opposite directions. For this purpose, in the illustrated case, the input 19E of the transfer case is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the drive shaft 18, while the two outputs 19A1 and 19A2 are each connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the feed elements 3, 4. In the simplest case, the input 19E is formed by a drive gear arranged on the drive shaft 18 or formed integrally therewith, while the outputs 19A1 and 19A2 are each formed by a further gear that can be at least indirectly coupled to the drive gear. These gears are located on the drive shafts 21.1 and 21.2, in or to which the individual feed elements 3, 4 can be coupled.

[0061] In the case of counter-rotating drive, one of the drive wheels is generally coupled via at least one or an odd number of intermediate wheels to the gearwheel coupled to the drive shaft 21.1 or 21.2 of one of the feed elements 3, 4 or designed as an integral part. In the case of the counter-rotating drive of the feed elements 3, 4 shown in the figure, the drive of the feed element 4 is effected by coupling with the feed element 3. For this purpose, for example, the gearwheel coupled to the output 19A1 is in engagement with the drive gearwheel 19E and the coupling of the gearwheel forming the output 19A2 or connected thereto with the drive gearwheel 19E takes place with the interposition of the gearwheel 19A1, ie the gearwheel of the output 19A2 meshes directly with the gearwheel of the output 19A1, so that 19A1 and 19A2 rotate in opposite directions.

[0062] The drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 are mounted in corresponding bearing devices, in particular in plain bearings or ball bearings in the drive shaft bearing housing 14. In order to achieve very high mechanical robustness with a synchronous drive even with small diameters of the feed elements in the range of 5 mm, the outputs 19A1 and 19A2 of the transfer case 19, i.e. the gears connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2, are arranged offset from one another in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1, whereby the individual gears can be dimensioned larger and both gears 19A1 and 19A2 are driven in the same direction by the gear 19E.

[0063] In the case of counter-rotating feed elements 3, 4, the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 each serve directly to drive a feed element 3, 4.

[0064] However, a solution not shown here is also conceivable, in which the function of the input 19E of the transfer case 19 is already taken over by one of the drive shafts 21.1 or 21.2 for the individual feed elements 3, 4. This one drive shaft 21.1, 21.2 then drives the other 21.2, 21.1 and engages a gear located on the other drive shaft 21.1 or 21.2 to generate the counter-rotation. This solution is particularly space-saving.

[0065] The connection of the individual drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 with the feed elements 3, 4 by a quick-release connection 15, here 15.1, 15.2, is carried out in the simplest case via bushings and shafts with corresponding connecting means, which are shown in the designs in the Fig. 3a to 3c will be explained in more detail.

[0066] The feed elements 3,4 can be Fig. 3a using the example of the feed element 3 basically in one piece or according to Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c be constructed in a modular design. Designs according to the Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c were chosen because they offer the possibility of variable screw geometries with regard to the construction of an individual feed element in the longitudinal direction. Modular feed elements 3, 4 allow optimal adaptation of the screw geometry to the respective extrusion process due to the freely selectable composition and the high variability of the individual modules. The preferred diameter D of the individual feed elements 3, 4 is in the range between 3 mm and 16 mm, preferably 4 mm to 9 mm, most preferably 5 mm to 7.5 mm. The connection between the individual feed elements 3, 4 and the drive unit 5 is at least indirectly non-rotatably via the drive shaft 18. In the illustrated embodiment according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the connection is made indirectly via the coupling to the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 and the intermediate transfer case 19. The connection of the feed elements 3, 4 to the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 themselves can be frictionally and / or positively connected. Shaft / hub connections are preferably used, which enable a rotationally fixed coupling between the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 and the feed elements 3, 4 in the circumferential direction and are additionally secured in the axial direction. In a simple manner, profile connections are selected as connections 15.1, 15.2, wherein the connecting means 22 arranged on the outer circumference of the feed elements 3, 4 in the drive-side end region 3A can be in the form of round, square, hexagonal or multi-tooth profiles, for example, which can be brought into operative connection with connecting means arranged complementarily on the inner circumference of the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2.These connections are then preferably displaceable in the axial direction and are secured by means of additional securing means 23 in the longitudinal direction of the feed element 3, 4 or the extrusion device 1.

[0067] In the Fig. 3a shows a feed element 3 of integral construction, in particular with a one-piece base body 24, on whose outer circumference 25 the connecting means 22 are incorporated in the end region 3A and the required screw geometry is incorporated in the remaining region extending in the direction of the end region 3E lying in the feed direction. For this purpose, in the drive-side end region 3A, connecting means 22 are provided on the base body 24 for a positive and / or non-positive connection to the drive unit 5 in the form of a profile. This is designed and dimensioned in such a way that it is suitable for being brought into operative connection with a complementary connecting means on the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2. The securing means 23 are only indicated and interact with the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2.

[0068] In an alternative embodiment, not shown here, the coupling is implemented via a single-acting coupling. In the simplest case, however, the coupling is implemented via a quick-release fastener, preferably in the form of a bayonet connection. In these cases, the rotationally fixed coupling and axial locking are achieved by a combined twisting movement and movement in the longitudinal direction of the drive shafts 21.1, 21.2 of the individual feed elements 3, 4, which is determined by their longitudinal axis. This creates a hooking effect.

[0069] A further possibility, not shown here, is the design with engagement elements that are provided on one of the elements to be connected to one another - drive shaft 21.1, 21.2 or feed element 3, 4 - and can engage in recesses provided for this purpose on the other element.

[0070] The Fig. The feed element 3 shown in Figure 3a is characterized by a profile extending uniformly in the longitudinal direction of the feed element 3 on the base body 24 outside the drive-side end region 3a. According to a further embodiment, it is conceivable to provide sub-regions of different screw geometries on the base body 24. These can then be incorporated into the outer circumference 25 of the base body 24 in an integral embodiment of the feed element 3 or, in a particularly advantageous embodiment, can be arranged on separate elements that can be joined together to form the feed element 3. Feed elements 3 of such a modular design are shown by way of example in Figures 3 and 4. Fig. 3b and Fig. 3c. Outside the end region 3A intended for connection to the drive shaft 21.1, these are characterized, for example, by a plurality of different subregions 26.1 to 26.n, which may differ in terms of their dimensions and / or geometry.

[0071] The modular construction according to Fig. 3b, which allows for the advantage of free variability in the screw geometry over the longitudinal extension of the individual feed elements 3, is characterized, outside the end region 3A intended for connection to the drive shaft 21.1, by a plurality of different subregions 26.1 to 26.3, which are joined together in the axial direction by means of positive and / or non-positive connections. The rotationally fixed connection and coupling in the circumferential direction takes place between the elements 27.1 to 27.n forming the individual subregions 26.1 to 26.n.

[0072] In contrast, an execution according to Fig. 3c has a one-piece end region 3A, preferably carrying the connecting means 22, with a base body 24 onto which the elements 27.1 to 27.n forming the different sub-regions 26.1 to 26.n can be pulled, pushed, or plugged. In the simplest case, the base body 24 is designed as an externally profiled, preferably cylindrical element. The profiling interacts with complementary profilings arranged on the inner circumference of the elements 27.1 to 27.n forming the sub-regions 26.1 to 26.n, forming a rotationally fixed connection in the circumferential direction of the feed element 3. This base body forms, so to speak, a receiving or supporting part for the elements 27.1 to 27.n forming the sub-regions 26.1 to 26.n, with the worm profilings required in the respective functional section. The variety of variations of the modular elements 27.1 to 27.n is very large in terms of the geometry and dimensions of the external profiles that perform the functions. The individual elements 27.1 to 27.n can, for example, include conveyor elements running spirally or helically around the outer circumference with different pitches and numbers of threads, toothed elements, mixing and kneading elements. This list is not exhaustive. The elements carrying the individual sub-regions 26.1 to 26.n are preferably designed in such a way with regard to their longitudinal dimensions that the extension in the longitudinal direction of the feed element 3 is still in a reasonable ratio to the diameter D. This ratio is preferably selected in the range between 0.25:1 and 4:1. Securing in the axial direction is achieved via axial securing means in the front end region 3E in the feed direction or via corresponding means on the individual element 27.1 to 27.n itself.In the case shown, the individual sub-areas 26.n and 26.5 describe fine concave conveyor segments that differ in terms of their length, the sub-areas 26.3 and 26.4 describe coarse concave conveyor segments and the sub-area 26.2 describes a mixed segment.

[0073] The disadvantage of the modular design compared to feed elements made from a single piece, which is reduced mechanical stability due to the small possible wall thicknesses of the base body 24 and the slide-on modules, in particular in the connection area of ​​the base body 24 with the drive unit 5, which becomes critical especially with very small diameters of the feed elements 3, 4 in the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, is eliminated by the particularly preferred embodiment, which represents a combination of both systems, namely a solid end area 3A in the coupling and filling area with preferably integral design of the connecting means for coupling with the drive unit 5, in which only conveying has to take place anyway, and a modular area in the middle and front area in the extrusion direction, in which variable extrusion conditions are desirable.

[0074] The Fig. 4a illustrates an embodiment with the formation of the shaping opening 7 at the end of the working area A at the outlet from the interior space 9 of a unit 13 forming the shaping opening, which unit can be, for example, an exchangeable nozzle plate. This can be designed so that it can be connected to the housing 11, preferably detachably, in the axial direction, i.e., viewed in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device. The plate can be clamped to the housing 11 in the axial direction and / or in the vertical direction or fastened thereto. This interchangeability allows for a high degree of variability with regard to the geometry of the shaping opening 7. The unit 13 is flanged, plugged on, or otherwise connected to the housing 11 in the end region 10.2, with the interior space 9 and the nozzle 8 overlapping in this position. In the case shown, the end face 13.1 of the unit 13 rests against the housing 11.

[0075] The Fig. Figure 4b illustrates, by way of example, a design of a unit 13 forming the shaping opening 7 as a nozzle plate in three views for a twin-screw extruder 2 with two nozzles 8.1, 8.2: a front view, i.e., of the outlet from the nozzle 8 at the end face 13.2, a sectional view AA for this view, and a view of the end face 13.1 coupled to the housing 11. The two shaping openings are designated 7.1, 7.2, and the nozzles 8.1 and 8.2. These open into the through-opening forming the interior space 9.

[0076] The unit 13 forming the shaping opening 7 is designed here as a circular plate. Other geometries are conceivable. For positional fixation on the housing 11, this plate has centering holes 31 on the end face 13.1, into which projections provided on the housing 11 can engage. Projections on the unit 13 and centering holes on the housing 11 would also be conceivable. Furthermore, through-openings 29 are provided for fastening elements for connecting the housing 11 and the unit 13. Optionally provided additional receiving holes 30, which are arranged on the end face 13.2, serve to center and guide additional functional units that can be coupled to the extrusion device 1, such as separating devices or calenders.

[0077] The individual shaping opening 7 or 7.1, 7.2 serves to shape the desired extrudates and often has circular bores with diameters in the range of 0.4 mm - 3 mm in order to dispense round extrudate strands, which can then either be cut directly at the nozzle plate, in particular at the end face 13.2 facing away from the housing 11, using a miniaturized cutting device, or are transferred to a transport device. In the latter case, the resulting extrudate is cooled on a conveyor belt and can then be further processed, for example, subjected to a cutting process. The replaceable nozzle plate can be fastened to the housing 11 in such a way that the through-opening forming the individual nozzle 8 or 8.1, 8.2 opens into the interior 9. The nozzle 8 or 8.1, 8.2 can be arranged adjacent to the feed elements 3, 4 or, in a particularly advantageous embodiment, can be at least partially penetrated by the feed elements 3, 4. In this case, the two feed elements 3, 4 extend in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1 into the extension of the nozzle 8 or 8.1, 8.2 and are thus also actively moved within the respective nozzle. The area with only passive movement of the extruded material at the outlet from the respective nozzle 8 or 8.1, 8.2 is thus minimized to the length necessary to form a homogeneous strand. This generally corresponds to two to three times the nozzle diameter.

[0078] A further embodiment of a unit 13 forming the shaping opening 7 in the form of a nozzle plate is shown in the Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b. In this case, the outlet from the nozzle 8 is not parallel to the longitudinal axes of the feed elements 3, 4, but rather oriented at an angle, preferably vertically downwards, so that the strand of extruded material can flow directly onto, for example, a conveyor device located underneath or into a calender device.

[0079] Fig. Figure 5a illustrates an axial section through a housing 11. This shows the perpendicular alignment of the longitudinal axes describing the interior 9 and the nozzle 8. The Fig. 5b illustrates for an execution according to Fig. 5a a perspective view.

[0080] In all versions, the forming opening 7 can be shaped according to the requirements of the extrudate to be produced. Oval, circular, or other cross-sections are conceivable.

[0081] The geometry of the outer circumference of the housing 11 can be designed in various ways. Preferably, housing shapes are selected that allow secure positioning and facilitate easy setup and axial fixing. Furthermore, the housing cross-section is preferably characterized by the fact that, if possible, the same boundary conditions are present in the circumferential direction of the interior space 9.

[0082] In a particularly advantageous further development, it is Fig. 6, on the outer circumference 32, incisions 33.1 to 33.n are provided, which run in the circumferential direction and are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction, forming segments 34.1 to 34.n extending in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1. These groove-shaped incisions 33.1 to 33.n are preferably designed, with regard to their geometry and / or dimensions, to run in the circumferential direction around the outer circumference 32 with a constant cross-section. As a result, the heat transfer between individual segments 34.1 to 34.n of the housing 11 arranged next to one another in the longitudinal direction can be significantly reduced. This enables the provision of different temperature ranges between each two such sections of the working area 4 in the housing 11 arranged next to one another in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device 1.As a result, in the individual sections of the working area A of the extrusion device 1, which is characterized by the conveying path, the temperatures in the individual sections can be optimally adapted to the respective processing or treatment processes. For example, the dosing area, which is actually located at the beginning of the working area A and is arranged in the region of segment 34.1, can have a relatively low temperature, which leads to good removal of powdered compositions from the dosing area, while in the adjoining middle area, which at least partially corresponds to the area of ​​the interior 9 enclosed by segment 34.2, the compositions can be brought to melting temperature for extruding the material, which can very often lead to amorphization and thus better dissolution of the active ingredient, whereas in the area of ​​the shaping opening 7, i.e. segment 34.3 the temperature can be lowered again to such an extent that readily deformable plastic masses are created, which can be cut at the outlet from the shaping opening 7 using simple separation processes, for example, into multiparticulate systems. Since the cuts do not extend into the interior 9, the barrel nevertheless remains sealed.

[0083] The housing 11 has according to Fig. 7 has at least one feed opening 12, preferably a plurality of such feed openings 12.1 to 12.n, which can be arranged at a distance from one another in the circumferential direction and / or at a distance from one another in the longitudinal direction of the working area A. Depending on the utilization, these enable the simultaneous or sequential addition of individual compositions into the interior space 9, which defines the working area A. As already explained, the arrangement can be made anywhere on the outer circumference 32. The decisive factor is that the respective material to be extruded is fed into the interior space 9 with reliability. The openings not required for extrusion processes can be closed with closure devices 35 in the form of plugs or other sealing means. These closure devices 35 are preferably designed such that they are easily removable and thus, depending on the application, the most diverse openings 12.1 to 12.n can be used.

[0084] The addition of liquids or fluids is carried out via fittings that can be inserted into the openings, preferably connected to them with a force-fitting or form-fitting connection, for example, screwed in. Otherwise, these openings are also closed.

[0085] The individual supply openings 12.1 to 12.n are preferably designed and / or configured such that they can be combined with standard addition devices or dosing devices. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the supply openings 12.1 to 12.n are designed with a circular cross-section. Preferably, the channels or line connections to the interior space 9 adjoining them are characterized by a constant cross-section.

[0086] There are a multitude of possibilities regarding the design of the dosing devices 36 that can be combined with the feed openings 12.1 to 12.n. In particular, for the application according to the invention with diameters of the feed elements 3, 4 < 8 mm, a specially developed piston dosing device 37 according to Fig. 8 is used. This doses even small batch quantities of 0.2 g - 5 g almost loss-free and evenly. The dosing device 36 comprises a piston syringe 38, into which the composition to be extruded is introduced and which is firmly connected to the feed opening 12, for example 12.1 of Fig. 1, of the extrusion device 1. In a preferred design, the outer sleeve of the piston syringe is guided into the feed opening 12.1 up to the interior 9, in particular the feed elements 3, 4, so that the material to be extruded is fed directly to the feed elements 3, 4. In addition, this avoids leakage problems and material losses and allows the use of a simple twist lock that is quick and easy to release. To achieve uniform dosing, when using the piston syringe 38, the housing 11 is rotated by 180° so that the feed opening 12.1 is oriented downwards. Furthermore, the dosing device 36 comprises a drive unit 39 which controls the piston 40 of the piston syringe 38 at a variable speed, i.e. moves it, so that uniform dosing is achieved.Preferably, the dosing is adjusted such that the extrusion device 1 is operated with a refill, i.e. more material can be transported to the feed opening 12 than the dosing device 36 delivers.

[0087] The Fig. Figure 8 illustrates an axial section of a piston dosing device 37.

[0088] The Fig. 9a illustrates, in a simplified schematic representation, a particularly advantageous embodiment of the housing 11 with at least one additional heating device 41 and / or an additional cooling device 42. Heating and / or cooling can generally be achieved in different ways. This can be done electrically, e.g., with high- and / or low-voltage heating cartridges, Peltier elements that can both heat and cool, or by means of appropriate carrier media. In many cases, metallic heat sinks with an enlarged surface, e.g., with fins, are also sufficient for cooling. The individual functional elements can be attached either to the surface of the housing 11 or inside the housing 11, preferably passing through the housing wall. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a heating and / or cooling device 41, 42 is provided that can be easily detached from the housing 11 and attached to it.This preferably comprises at least one or a plurality of individual functional elements 43, 44, which are used for heating and / or cooling and which are arranged on the surfaces of the housing 11, in particular the outer circumference 32, in openings provided for this purpose. In order to achieve rapid assembly and disassembly of the individual functional units, in particular during cleaning when changing the extrudate, the functional elements 43, 44 of the individual heating and / or cooling devices 41, 42 are combined in a preferred embodiment into solid blocks or batteries, which can be quickly connected to the housing 11 or inserted into it. Thus, the entire heating / cooling block can be inserted into the extrusion device 1, in particular the housing 11, or removed from it again in a single operation, which enables rapid assembly and cleaning without complex sealing of the electrically operated heating / cooling elements.Safety covers, which are necessary to avoid touching a heated housing 11, are also attached to the extrusion device 1 with quick-release fasteners.

[0089] The individual heating and / or cooling device 41, 42 preferably consists of a plurality of individual heating and / or cooling elements 43, 44, which according to Fig. 9a are detachably attachable to a central support device 45, which is preferably designed as a support plate covering a portion of the housing 11. This allows for easy replacement of just one of the elements, even in the event of a failure. Otherwise, the storage and positioning of the individual elements enables uniform handling and thus easy assembly or disassembly on the housing 11. The individual heating and / or cooling elements 43, 44 can be controlled individually or in groups. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, these are heating cartridges or Peltier elements.

[0090] In an alternative design, which allows even greater flexibility in the arrangement of heating and / or cooling elements while maintaining the possibility of steep temperature gradients, individual heating and / or cooling devices 41.1 to 41.3 and 42.2 to 42.3 are provided, which are assigned to individual areas of the working area A. In an embodiment according to Fig. 6, the housing 11, in particular a barrel, consists of a relatively thin-walled, round or oval base body onto which the individual segments 34.1 to 34.3 are pushed in any grouping. In barrel zones that are to have the same temperatures, the elements are pushed close together; in zones with steep temperature gradients, corresponding air gaps are left so that heat conduction only occurs through the thin-walled barrel and is thus minimal. Each of the individual heating and / or cooling devices 41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3 has one or a plurality of heating and / or cooling elements 43, 44, which are each arranged on a support device 45.1 to 45.3 that at least partially covers the individual sections of the working area A formed by the segments 34.1 to 34.3.Here, too, the housing 11 has a predefined number of corresponding receiving openings for the individual functional elements 43, 44 of the heating and / or cooling device 41, 42 in the individual sections, wherein the unused openings can be closed using closure devices. The corresponding functional elements, in particular heating and / or cooling elements 43, 44, can then be inserted into these openings. Individual heating and cooling devices 41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3 can be provided for individual sections. These heating and cooling devices are constructed and handled separately from one another and in turn consist of a plurality of individual heating or cooling elements 43, 44, which in turn can be detached separately from the individual support devices 45.1 to 45.3. The individual support devices 45.1 to 45.3 can also be coupled to one another.

[0091] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a support device is provided which, if possible, offers a predefined grid for accommodating heating elements and / or cooling elements, which, depending on their configuration, can be brought into engagement with the corresponding openings on the housing 11. Particularly in the case of electrical heating and / or cooling elements 43, 44, this can also be designed such that the individual heating and / or cooling elements 43, 44 can be controlled individually or in groups in sections. There are no restrictions regarding the specific design. The decisive factor is that the modular design of the heating or cooling device enables rapid assembly and disassembly.

[0092] In an advantageous further development, housings 11 with dimensions in the range of preferably 10 cm to 80 cm or with a ratio of the length to the diameter of the feed elements of 5:1 to 40:1 can also be formed in one piece, free from segmentation by incisions. In this case, heating and / or cooling devices 41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3 can be plugged onto the housing 11, preferably enclosing the housing 11 in the circumferential direction and pushed into the respective sections. Such a design is exemplified in Fig. 10a. The shape of the heating and / or cooling devices 41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3 is adapted to that of the housing 11 in the circumferentially enclosing design.

[0093] Fig. Figure 10a shows an embodiment with an integral design, ie a one-piece design surrounding the housing 11 in the circumferential direction, of the heating and / or cooling devices 41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3. In contrast, Fig. 10b shows a design with two heating and / or cooling devices 41.11 to 41.32, 42.11 to 42.32, which are connected one behind the other in the circumferential direction while completely enclosing the housing 11 and are preferably functionally coupled to one another. Each unit comprising two heating and / or cooling devices 41.11, 41.12, 42.11, 42.12 or 41.21, 41.22, 42.21, 42.22 or 41.31, 41.31, 42.31 to 42.32 arranged one behind the other in the circumferential direction is assigned a connection device 50.1 to 50.3, which serves, for example, to connect to devices for applying carrier media for heat transfer, in this case, for example, commercially available ventilated CPU coolers are used.

[0094] The extrusion device 1 according to the invention can be combined and modified with a variety of different components. This particularly relates to the further processing of the extruded material upon exiting the nozzle 8, where it is present as a strand. Depending on the design, a particularly advantageous embodiment can provide a cutting device 46 that can be arranged in the area of ​​the exit from the nozzle 8. While such cutting devices are known in principle, they consist of separate devices weighing more than 100 kg, which must be precisely connected to the extruder unit in a time-consuming process. In addition, cleaning these devices requires a considerable amount of time, approximately 30 - 60 minutes, due to their complex structure. The cutting device specially developed for the extrusion device 1 according to the invention, on the other hand, weighs only approximately650 g and is placed directly onto the element 13 forming the shaping opening 7, in particular the nozzle plate. In a preferred embodiment, it consists of a hollow cylindrical, transparent element 58, into which the drive 59, in particular a motor with a support device 49 for separating elements 48, in particular a knife unit, is inserted via guides, in particular guide pins, via cylindrical guides. This knife unit has two or more separating elements 48.1 to 48.n, in particular knives, resting on the nozzle plate, which thus cut the emerging extrudate strand directly at the front, i.e., the end face 13.2 of the nozzle plate.By adjusting the speed to the extruded extrudate volume, the desired extrudate lengths can be produced precisely and reproducibly. A length / diameter ratio of 1:1 is generally preferred, as the resulting extrudates can be easily rounded into spherical pellets, which can then be easily filled into capsules. To prevent multiple particles from sticking together, the cutter head was designed with a specially developed profile that deflects the pellets backward and outward, as shown schematically in . Fig. 11a, so that the cut pellets are given a spin and thrown backward / outward. This thus enables, in a particularly advantageous manner, the extruded material to be cut to a predefined length in the longitudinal direction.

[0095] The Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b each illustrate a detailed view of a separating device 46 in axial section. Fig. 11b illustrates the view in a plane opposite to the section plane according to Fig. 11a parallel to this offset section plane. The Fig. Figure 11c shows a front view and a section AA through it.

[0096] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the knock-off device 46 is designed according to the Fig. 11a to 11c, can be coupled to the unit 13, in particular the nozzle plate, via a guide device. This can be designed in various ways and comprise a guide, in particular guide rails, and thus enable an axially parallel adjustment movement, i.e., an adjustment movement in or against the extrusion direction. Furthermore, the guide can be attached to receiving openings 30 according to Fig. 4b must be trained.

[0097] In a further alternative embodiment, the cutting device 46 can also be positioned at an angle to the end face 13.2 of the housing 11 formed by the end region 10.2 or to the unit 13 forming the shaping opening 7, for example pivoted in via a corresponding hinge connection which is adjustable such that after pivoting in, the knife heads lie flat on the nozzle plate.

[0098] The teeing device 46 according to the Fig. 11a and Fig. 11b comprises at least one, preferably a plurality of separating elements 48.1, 48.2, which are preferably designed in the form of cutting devices, in particular knives, the number of which can vary. The number is preferably between 2 and 20, most preferably 2-6.

[0099] The individual separating elements 48.1 to 48.n can be applied to the nozzle plate with light pressure. The separating elements 48.1 to 48.n can be moved translationally or rotationally about an axis 47. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a rotational movement is selected in which the individual separating elements 48 are aligned in the radial direction and the cutting edges preferably point in the circumferential direction. The rotation about a stationary axis 47 enables cutting off at a time interval defined depending on the rotational speed of the separating element. In a particularly advantageous manner, the geometry of the cut-off elements, in particular the length-diameter ratio, is characterized by the number of individual separating elements, the feed movement of the strand from the nozzle 8 and the spacing of the individual separating elements 48 as well as the rotational speed of the carrier device 49 for the separating elements.Such a knock-off device 46 is shown as an example in . Fig. 11a to 11c, where Fig. 11b a view from the front, Fig. 11c a section AA according to Fig. 11b and Fig. 11a shows a detailed view.

[0100] Alternatively, other miniaturized separation, preferably cutting, devices such as strand granulators, notched rollers, miniaturized spheronizers can be used.

[0101] The Fig. 12a and Fig. 12b show, by way of example, the structure of a functional unit in the form of a calender 51 that can be combined with the extrusion device 1. This has two drums 52.1, 52.2 that can be driven in opposite directions via a drive unit 53, on whose outer circumferences 55.1, 55.2 the desired tablet shape is machined in half size in the form of depressions 56.2. The coupling between the drive unit 53, preferably in the form of an electric motor, in particular a stepper motor, and the drums 52.1, 52.2 is effected by means of transmission means 53, here, for example, a traction means. The drums 52.1, 52.2, shown in section BB according to Fig. 12a in Fig. The recesses 56.2 shown in Figure 12b are arranged circumferentially on the outer circumference 55.2, preferably at equal distances from one another. After exiting the shaping opening 7, the extrudate reaches the calender 51. It is fed into the gap 57 between the two drums 52.1, 52.2, preferably in a vertical direction from above, such as by means of a nozzle plate according to Fig. 5b. Geometric shapes, especially tablets, are formed from this.

[0102] With a good coordination between the mass outlet and the rotational speed of the calender 51, material losses can be kept to a minimum. The extrudate processed in the calender, especially the tablets, still exhibit small edges after breaking, which are caused by the necessary minimum distance between the rollers. However, these can be easily removed by moving the tablets against each other, for example, in a turbula mixer.

[0103] The calender 51 can be connected to the extrusion device 1, in particular guided on it. List of reference symbols 1 extrusion device 2 twin-screw extruders 3 Feed element 3A drive-side end area 3E End area in feed direction 4 Feed element 5 Drive unit 6 Extrudate formation unit 7 Form-giving opening 8 nozzle 9 Interior 10.1, 10.2 End area 11 Housing, Barrel 12 Feed opening 12.1 - 12.n Feed opening 13 shaping opening forming unit 13.1, 13.2 Front side 14 Drive shaft bearing housing 15 detachable connection 15.1, 15.2 detachable connection 16 detachable connection 17 Drive machine 18 Drive shaft 19 transfer cases 19A1, 19A2 Transfer case outputs 19E Transfer case input 20 reduction gears 21.1, 21.2 Drive shaft 22 connecting devices 23 Securing devices 24 basic bodies 25 outer circumference 26.1 -26.n Sub-areas 27.1-27.n the elements forming sub-areas 26.1-26.n 28 Sealing agents 29 through holes for fasteners 30 mounting holes 31 centering holes 32 outer circumference 33.1-33.n incisions 34.1-34.n segments 35 locking device 36 Dosing device 37 Piston dosing device 38 piston syringe 39 Drive unit 40 pistons 41.1-41.3 Heating device 41.11-41.31 Heating device 41.21-41.32 Heating device 42.1-42.3 Cooling device 42.11-42.31 Cooling device 42.12-42.32 Cooling device 43 Heating element 44 Cooling element 45, 45.1-45.3 Carrier device 46 teeing device 47 Axis 48 dividers 49 Carrier device 50.1-50.3 Connection device 51 calenders 52.1, 52.2 Drum 53 Drive unit 54 means of transmission 55.1, 55.2 Outer circumference 56.2 Deepening 57 gap 58 elements 59 Drive A work area X, Y, Z coordinates

Claims

[1] Extrusion device (1) for processing and / or preparing compositions, comprising a housing (11) forming a working area (A) and accommodating at least two feed elements (3, 4) rotatable therein, at least one feed opening (12, 12.1 to 12.n) connected to the working area (A) for feeding a composition and at least one shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) at the end of the working area (A) for discharging the extrudate, characterized by , that the function of the input (19E) of a transfer case (19) is already taken over by one of at least two second drive shafts (21.1, 21.2) such that each of the at least two feed elements (3, 4) is detachably connected to one of the at least two second drive shafts (21.1, 21.2), wherein one of the at least two second drive shafts (21.1, 21.2) is coupled to a first drive shaft (18) of a drive unit (5) which is mounted in a drive shaft bearing housing (14) outside the working area (A), one of the at least two drive shafts (21.1, 21.2) which is coupled to the first drive shaft (18) is arranged to drive the other of the at least two drive shafts (21.1, 21.2), and the housing (11) is designed in one piece and is connected to the drive shaft bearing housing (14) via a detachable connection (16). [2] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the detachable connection (16) between the drive shaft bearing housing (14) and the housing (11) is designed as a quickly detachable coupling device. [3] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by that the detachable connection (16) between the drive shaft bearing housing (14) and the housing (11) is designed as a force-locking connection, preferably a clamping connection, particularly preferably a triclamp connection. [4] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by that the detachable connection (16) between the drive shaft bearing housing (14) and the housing (11) is designed as a positive connection. [5] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that means (28) are provided for sealing the working area (A) with respect to the drive shaft bearing housing (14). [6] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 5, characterized bythat the means (28) for sealing comprise sealing surfaces arranged on the connecting means of the detachable connection (16) which are arranged on the housing side and / or on the drive shaft bearing housing side and can be brought into operative connection with one another, which sealing surfaces form sealing pairs directly with one another or with separate sealing devices arranged between them. [7] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the connection between a drive shaft (18, 21.1, 21.2) and the individual feed element (3, 4) is designed as a quickly detachable connection (15, 15.1, 15.2), in particular a positive and / or non-positive connection. [8] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 7, characterized by that the connection between the drive shaft (18, 21.1, 21.2) and the individual feed element (3, 4) comprises a rotationally fixed connection in the circumferential direction with securing in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device (1). [9] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized by that the connection between the drive shaft (18, 21.1, 21.2) and the individual feed element (3, 4) comprises a bayonet connection. [10] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by that the cross-sectional area of ​​the interior space (9) accommodating the individual feed element (3, 4) is characterized by a maximum extension perpendicular to the feed direction of the material to be extruded and the ratio of the length of the housing (11) to this maximum extension is in the range from 5:1 to 30:

1. [11] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by that the ratio of the thickness of the wall of the housing (11), which encloses the interior space (9) accommodating the individual feed element (3, 4), to the cross section of the feed elements (2, 3) is selected in the range from 0.35:1 to 1:1.

5. [12] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by that the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) is formed by the housing (11) in the end region of the working area (A) lying in the feed direction of the material to be extruded. [13] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by that the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) is formed by an element (13), in particular a nozzle plate, which can be detachably connected to the housing (11) and forms the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2). [14] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 13, characterized by that the individual feed element (3, 4) extends in the longitudinal direction into the element (13) forming the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) and the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) is designed such that its length is between 1 / 6 and 1 / 2 the thickness of the element (13) forming the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2). [15] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized by that the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2) is formed at an angle to the feed direction. [16] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by that the housing (11) has at least one incision (33.1 to 33.n) running circumferentially around the outer circumference (32) in the longitudinal direction of the working area (A), which incision divides the housing (11) into individual housing segments (34.1 to 34.n) in the longitudinal direction of the extrusion device (1). [17] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 16, characterized by that the arrangement and / or number of cuts (33.1 to 33.n) is selected as a function of the functional sections characterizing the working area (A). [18] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized bythat the housing (11) can be coupled to means for influencing the temperature in the working area (A). [19] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 18, characterized by that the means comprise at least one heating and / or cooling device (41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3; 41.11, 41.12, 41.21, 41.22, 41.31, 41.32, 42.11, 42.12, 42.21, 42.22, 42.31, 42.32) which can be arranged on the outer circumference (32) of the housing (11), preferably by being attached or plugged on. [20] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 18 or 19, characterized by that the individual heating and / or cooling device (41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3; 41.11, 41.12, 41.21, 41.22, 41.31, 41.32, 42.11, 42.12, 42.21, 42.22, 42.31, 42.32) is designed and arranged in such a way that it at least partially encloses the housing (11) in the circumferential direction over a partial area of ​​its extension in the longitudinal direction. [21] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 20, characterized bythat the individual heating and / or cooling device (41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3) is designed as an integral structural unit and can be pushed onto the housing (11) so as to enclose it in the circumferential direction. [22] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 20, characterized by that a plurality of individual heating and / or cooling devices (41.11, 41.12, 41.21, 41.22, 41.31, 41.32, 42.11, 42.12, 42.21, 42.22, 42.31, 42.32) are provided, which are arranged one behind the other in the circumferential direction and are arranged to at least partially enclose the housing (11) in the circumferential direction, preferably to enclose it completely in the circumferential direction, and are functionally coupled to one another or decoupled from one another. [23] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized byin that a single heating and / or cooling device (41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3) is assigned to at least one or more segments (34.1 to 34.n) and comprises a plurality of individual heating and / or cooling elements (43, 44) which are fastened to at least one support device (45, 45.1 to 45.n) which can be fastened to the housing (11), and the support device (45, 45.1 to 45.n) can be arranged relative to the outer circumference (32) of the housing (11) in such a way that the individual heating and / or cooling elements (43, 44) can be inserted into openings in the housing (11). [24] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 23, characterized by that the individual heating and / or cooling elements (43, 44) of a carrier device (45, 45.1 to 45.3) can be controlled individually and / or in groups. [25] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 17 to 24, characterized bythat the individual heating and / or cooling devices (41.1 to 41.3, 42.1 to 42.3; 41.11, 41.12, 41.21, 41.22, 41.31, 41.32, 42.11, 42.12, 42.21, 42.22, 42.31, 42.32) comprise heating cartridges and / or Peltier elements and / or finned coolers with or without ventilation. [26] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized by that the at least one supply opening (12, 12.1 to 12.n) on the housing (11) is arranged and designed such that it can be connected to a dosing device (37). [27] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 26, characterized by that the dosing device (37) is designed as a rotary dosing device. [28] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 26, characterized bythat the dosing device (37) is designed as a piston dosing device, comprising a piston chamber which can be connected to the supply opening (12, 12.1 to 12.n), in which a piston element (40) can be driven to change the piston chamber volume. [29] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 26, characterized by that the individual supply opening (12, 12.1 to 12.n) is connected to a fitting in a form-fitting or force-fitting manner. [30] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 29, characterized by that at least two supply openings (12, 12.1 to 12.n) are provided, which are arranged in different functional areas of the working area (A). [31] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 30, characterized by that a plurality of supply openings (12, 12.1-12.n) are provided, to which closure means (35) are assigned. [32] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 31, characterized bythat a separating device (46) is arranged downstream of it at the outlet from the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2). [33] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 32, characterized by that the separating device (46) has at least one separating element (48) rotating about an axis parallel to an axis describing the exit from the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2). [34] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 32, characterized by that the separating device (46) comprises at least one separating element which can be moved back and forth parallel to a plane describing the outlet opening (7, 7.1, 7.2). [35] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 32 to 34, characterized bythat the geometry and / or dimensioning of the extrudate can be determined as a function of the dimensioning, geometry of the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2), feed rate of the extrudate and / or speed and arrangement of the rotatable separating elements (48) or speed of the movable separating elements (48). [36] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 35, characterized by in that a calender (51) is arranged downstream of the latter, comprising two drums (52.1, 52.2) which can be driven in opposite directions and form a gap with one another, and on whose outer circumference (55.1, 55.2) depressions (56.2) are incorporated. [37] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 36, characterized by that a transport device is arranged downstream of the outlet from the shaping opening (7, 7.1, 7.2). [38] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 32 to 37, characterized bythat means for guiding and / or coupling the separating device (46) or the calender (51) or the transport device are provided on the housing (11). [39] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 38 characterized by that the individual feed element (3, 4) is formed in one piece, comprising a first end region (3A) for connection to the drive shaft (18, 21.1, 21.2) and a region carrying functional elements. [40] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 38 characterized by that the individual feed element (3, 4) is of modular construction. [41] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 40 characterized by that a plurality of elements (27.1 to 27.n) which can be connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner in the axial direction and which have functional elements or form functional areas are provided as individual modules. [42] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 40, characterized in that the individual feed element (3, 4) has at least one longitudinally extending base body (24) onto which individual functional elements or functional area forming elements (27.1 to 27.n) can be pushed or plugged. [43] Extrusion device (1) according to claim 41, characterized in that the base body (24) has a first end region (3A) with integral design of means for coupling to the drive unit (5) and only on the remaining part individual functional elements or elements forming functional regions (27.1 to 27.n) can be pushed or plugged on. [44] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 40 to 43, characterized by that the individual functional area or functional element comprises at least one of the following elements: threads Mixing devices, especially stirrers Processing elements, especially dough hook teeth Profiling [45] Extrusion device (1) according to claims 1 to 44, characterized by that the ratio of length to diameter (D) of the individual feed element (3, 4) is in the range from 0.25:1 to 4:1, preferably from 0.5:1 to 2:

1. [46] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 45, characterized by that the drive unit (5) comprises a drive machine (17) which is designed as an electric motor, in particular as a synchronous or stepper motor. [47] Extrusion device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 46, characterized by that the drive unit (5) comprises a reduction gear (20).

Images