Ejection device for ejecting pharmaceutical production material, pharmaceutical processing equipment and method for ejecting pharmaceutical production material

Abstract

The present invention relates to an ejection device (124) for ejecting pharmaceutical production material (102), preferably pharmaceutical containers (110), from a pharmaceutical processing device (100), preferably a sterilization tunnel (106), comprising: - a system element (194) comprising a system push surface (196) for contacting the pharmaceutical production material (102) and for pushing the pharmaceutical production material (102) out of the pharmaceutical processing device (100) along a push-out direction (198); and - a transmission device (168) which is fixed to the system element (194); wherein the transmission device (168) is couplingable to a drive device (126) for transmitting a thrust force and / or a thrust movement generated by the drive device (126) to the system element (194), and wherein the transmission device (168) comprises several transmission elements (200) which are coupled to each other by means of a respective joint for a relative movement of the several transmission elements (200) to each other for changing the shape and / or size of the transmission device (168). Furthermore, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical processing device and a method for ejecting pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an ejection device for ejecting pharmaceutical production material, preferably pharmaceutical containers, from a pharmaceutical processing facility, preferably a sterilization tunnel.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical processing device for processing pharmaceutical production material, comprising an ejection device as explained above.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for ejecting pharmaceutical production material, preferably pharmaceutical containers, from a pharmaceutical processing facility, preferably a sterilization tunnel, comprising the following steps: - Providing an ejection device as explained above; and - Provision of a pharmaceutical processing facility as explained above.

[0004] When processing pharmaceutical production materials, it is necessary to "empty" the designated pharmaceutical processing equipment at certain times. This means that all the pharmaceutical production material is removed from the equipment. Reasons for emptying or removing the equipment include maintenance of the pharmaceutical processing equipment, a defective batch of pharmaceutical production material, or the end of a production cycle.

[0005] In the current state of the art, rigid ejection devices are used for ejection or emptying. Ejection can be performed manually, either by displaying a prompt on an operator terminal of the pharmaceutical processing equipment indicating that an ejection device must be inserted. However, this manual process requires opening the machine guard of the pharmaceutical processing equipment, and the ejection device must then be inserted by an operator of the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0006] After loading, the ejection process can be carried out using a transport device and the ejection mechanism. At the end of the emptying process, a message appears again on the operator terminal indicating that the ejection mechanism can now be removed. For this, the machine guard must be opened again and closed again after removal.

[0007] Alternatively, the pharmaceutical production material can also be ejected using an automatically controlled and driven ejection device. However, current state-of-the-art solutions only involve these ejection devices being positioned above the pharmaceutical production material in a rest position, from which they can be lowered for ejection. This positioning has the disadvantage of violating the so-called first-air principle, and the airflow surrounding the ejection device also poses a risk of particles being transferred from the device to the pharmaceutical production material, thus creating an additional contamination hazard.

[0008] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide an ejection device, a pharmaceutical processing device and a method for ejecting pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device in order to simplify the ejection of the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device and to improve the processing hygiene of the pharmaceutical processing device.

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention in a generic ejection device by the fact that the ejection device for ejecting pharmaceutical production material, preferably pharmaceutical containers, from a pharmaceutical processing device, preferably a sterilization tunnel, comprises the following: - a system element comprising a system push surface for contact with the pharmaceutical production material and for pushing the pharmaceutical production material out of the pharmaceutical processing equipment along a push-out direction; and - a transmission device fixed to the system element; wherein the transmission device is couplingable to a drive device for transmitting a thrust force and / or a thrust movement generated by the drive device to the system element; and wherein The transmission device comprises several transmission elements which are coupled to each other by means of a respective joint, preferably a rotary joint, for a relative movement, preferably rotation, of the several transmission elements to each other for changing the shape and / or size of the transmission device.

[0010] The ejection device can be considered a subunit of the higher-level unit, namely the pharmaceutical processing equipment. In particular, through interaction with, for example, a transport system of the pharmaceutical processing equipment, the ejection device can be configured to push the pharmaceutical production material out of the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0011] It can be advantageous if the ejection device includes or forms an ejection frame for placement on the transport system of the pharmaceutical processing equipment, preferably for direct contact with the pharmaceutical production material for subsequent ejection from the pharmaceutical processing equipment. Consequently, the ejection device can serve as an extension of the transport system beyond the boundaries of the transport system and / or the pharmaceutical processing equipment. This has the particular advantage that the transport path can be extended in addition to the transport system itself.

[0012] The ejection can be, in particular, a linear ejection motion. Additionally or alternatively, the ejection can also be a rotational motion.

[0013] Pharmaceutical production materials can be categorized into primary packaging (packaging that comes into direct contact with the product) and secondary packaging. Primary packaging can include pharmaceutical containers of all kinds, preferably vials for storing medications or other pharmaceutical products. Secondary packaging can include all components of a finished product that do not come into direct contact with the product. Examples include tubs, trays, nests, magazines, etc.

[0014] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the ejection device could be part of one or more pharmaceutical processing facilities for pharmaceutical products or medicines.

[0015] Preferably, the pharmaceutical processing equipment can be designed as a sterilization tunnel. A preferred embodiment of the sterilization tunnel can be a so-called hot air tunnel for the thermal sterilization of the pharmaceutical production material.

[0016] The pharmaceutical processing equipment can, for example, be designed as a pharmaceutical processing station. Examples of such a processing station include: filling station, capping station, weighing station, transport station, and packaging station. It is also conceivable that the pharmaceutical processing equipment could be an intermediate station positioned between the processing stations described above.

[0017] The transmission device can preferably be understood as forming a mechanical interface to the drive device, so that the ejection device can be driven automatically and thus is also equipped to eject the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing equipment. However, it can also be provided that the ejection device can be automatically pushed onto a transport device of the pharmaceutical processing equipment and subsequently driven further by the transport device to push the material onto the ejection point.

[0018] In general, a joint can be understood as a component or assembly by means of which two transmission elements are mechanically connected to provide one or more degrees of freedom, defined by the joint, for the relative movement of the transmission elements to each other. The joint can, for example, be designed as a shear joint for transmitting linear movements. Additionally or alternatively, the joint can also be designed as a pivot joint for rotational movements between the transmission elements. In particular, the joint ensures a safe and defined transmission of the shear force and / or the shear motion from one transmission element to another, especially an adjacent one.

[0019] Within the scope of this invention, the change in shape can be understood as a change in shape resulting from the relative movement of the respective transmission elements to one another. In particular, the change in shape should not be understood in such a way that, for example, a change in shape resulting from plastic deformation of the transmission device is included in this term. However, elastic deformation that occurs as a result of the transmission of, for example, a shear force, can be understood as a change in shape at the micro level, which is, however, essentially negligible compared to the change in shape at the macroscopic level resulting from the relative movement of the transmission elements to one another. The transmission device can, for example, comprise two to ten or more transmission elements, or, for example, two to fifty or more.

[0020] Due to the previously described change in shape, the transmission element can, for example, be rolled up, similar to a roller door in the case of rotation, or, for example, be slid into one another in the case of linear movement. This results in the following two advantages: firstly, the transmission device, and thus also the ejection device, can be positioned in a space-saving manner within the pharmaceutical processing equipment, especially when the ejection device is inactive; and secondly, it allows for considerable design and construction freedom in the arrangement of the ejection device within the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0021] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the transmission device comprises at least one push chain for transmitting the thrust force and / or thrust movement to the support element, wherein the multiple transmission elements are designed as push chain links. The thrust movement can preferably be a linear, i.e., straight, thrust movement. The push chain can also be described as a back-stiffening chain, the basis of which is a so-called roller chain. Here, each chain link can be connected to the others via a two-dimensional pivot joint, for example in the form of a bolt or pin. The bolt or pin, in turn, is surrounded by a roller, which ultimately forms the engagement surface, for example, for a sprocket.

[0022] These push chains have, for example, a drive end for coupling to a drive element, such as a sprocket, and a reverse side opposite the drive end. This structure applies both generally to the entire chain and to each individual push chain link. Preferably, adjacent push chain links have so-called locking flanks at their respective axial ends, relative to each link's longitudinal axis. These locking flanks, at an angle of 0° / 180° between the respective link's longitudinal axes, only allow rotation towards the drive end. Consequently, rotation in the opposite direction, i.e., towards the reverse side, is blocked or prevented.This locking mechanism enables the transmission of shear movements, particularly when the push chain rests on a flat surface, such as that provided by a transport system in pharmaceutical processing equipment. This flat surface can thus serve as an additional blocking surface to prevent rotation towards the drive side when the chain is in place. This is because, typically, the rigid chain is positioned on the drive side of the transport system when in place.

[0023] The advantage of the push chain can be that it is shape-changeable in the direction of the drive side, i.e., rotatable or coilable, and in the opposite direction, i.e., in the direction of its back side, it can behave like an essentially rigid compression / push bar for transmitting shear / compression forces.

[0024] It can be advantageous if the at least one push chain comprises two end push chain links to physically limit the push chain along a longitudinal chain axis, with the end push chain links being spaced apart from one another. Due to this arrangement or design, the push chain preferably does not form a continuous, so-called endless chain, but rather has two spaced-apart and separate end push chain links. This can be particularly advantageous in that the transmission device, designed, for example, as a push chain, can be completely separated or detached from the drive device, allowing it to be advantageously fed to the transport device, placed on it, and transported to an end of the transport device that, for example, faces away from the drive device.In particular, transport to such a far end can be achieved with an open push chain using significantly fewer push chain links than, for example, with a closed endless push chain. This allows the push chain to be shorter, lighter, and, above all, more cost-effective to manufacture, and it also requires less installation space.

[0025] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, one end link of the push chain can be fixed to the stop element and / or the other end link can be designed as a free end link, located on the side of the push chain facing away from the contact element. The free end allows for the mechanical temporary release or separation of the push chain from the drive unit, as this is achieved by simply unwinding it from the coupled sprocket, which would not be so easily possible with an endless chain, for example. In this respect, the free end offers a structurally simple way to first detach the push chain from the drive unit, which may be configured as a sprocket, and then re-couple it to the drive unit.

[0026] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the transmission device comprises at least two push chains, the respective longitudinal axes of which are aligned parallel at least in sections, with the at least two push chains preferably being identical in design. This structurally identical design allows for the implementation of a common parts strategy, which generally results in cost advantages. The at least partial parallel alignment can be understood, in particular, as referring to an expanded state, i.e., a state completely detached from the drive device. Moreover, two push chains preferably allow for a frame-like design of the extension device, which can offer advantages, especially regarding the rigidity of the extension device.The two push chains can be attached symmetrically to the system element, relative to a central point of the system element and its longitudinal axis. This design can particularly improve the transmission of the thrust force from the drive unit to the system element, because this transmission can be geometrically more defined.

[0027] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the extension device includes a drive element that is fixed to the transmission device and can be detachably coupled to a transport device for the pharmaceutical processing equipment to transmit a transport movement and / or transport force from the transport device to the drive element. Due to the detachable coupling with the transport device, the extension device can be driven by the transport device in addition to or as an alternative to the drive device. Therefore, the extension device does not need to be driven by the drive device across the entire length of the transport device while resting on it.

[0028] Furthermore, the existing drive energy of the transport device can be advantageously utilized by means of the drive element. This allows the drive unit itself to be designed to be smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective, since it does not have to drive the extension mechanism along the entire length of the transport device, but rather this can be at least partially handled by the transport device itself.

[0029] Fixing the drive element to the transmission device can therefore be advantageous because it allows for a structural distance between the system element and the drive element along the extension direction, which can provide an additional increase in the stiffness of the extension device.

[0030] It can be advantageous if the drive element includes a coupling device for engaging with a corresponding coupling device of the transport device or, conversely, for creating a detachable coupling between the drive element and the transport device.

[0031] The coupling device preferably comprises at least one coupling projection, and the corresponding coupling device of the transport device preferably comprises at least one corresponding coupling opening. The transport device can preferably be designed as a conveyor belt with a substantially flat transport surface. Since the pharmaceutical products, for example those designed as pharmaceutical containers, are transported upright on the transport device, coupling projections on or in the transport device would be detrimental to the transport stability of the pharmaceutical containers, as they could increase their tendency to tip over. Therefore, it can be particularly advantageous if the transport device accordingly comprises at least one corresponding coupling opening and the drive element has at least one coupling projection.Furthermore, in sterilization tunnels, which are advantageously designed as hot air tunnels, so-called mesh conveyor belts are preferably used as transport devices, which, due to their structure, already provide at least one of such a corresponding coupling opening.

[0032] Furthermore, the drive element can be arranged between the at least two push chains, with one longitudinal axis of the drive element oriented perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes. With such a perpendicular arrangement, the drive element can absorb a maximum amount of lateral forces, thus further improving the stability of the frame-like extension device. Moreover, this arrangement is advantageous when designing the transmission device using at least two push chains because, while the push chains enable reliable transmission of the thrust force and thrust movement from the drive device, they are not comparable to a rigid push rod, for example, in terms of stiffness and dimensional accuracy.

[0033] Furthermore, it can prove advantageous if the support element is arranged at least partially between the at least two push chains, wherein one longitudinal axis of the support element is oriented perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes, and wherein the support element preferably projects beyond the at least two push chains on both sides along its longitudinal axis by means of two end sections. As described above, the support element can advantageously serve to further stabilize or stiffen the extension mechanism, corresponding to the drive element. Even with this perpendicular arrangement, the support element can advantageously absorb a maximum amount of the transverse forces occurring, i.e., transverse to the chain longitudinal axes.

[0034] By extending the two end sections beyond the at least two push chains along the longitudinal axis of the system element, the rigidity and stability of the ejection device can be advantageously improved. Furthermore, such a design offers the advantage of enabling lateral guidance along the longitudinal axis of the system element outside the at least two push chains. For this purpose, the transport system can be limited by a lateral boundary device within which the system element can be guided by its two respective end sections. Additionally, lateral guide elements can be mounted at the ends of the two end sections, which can interact, for example, with the lateral boundary of the transport system and / or the pharmaceutical processing equipment, such as a hot air tunnel.These lateral guide elements can, for example, be designed as guide rollers to minimize the frictional resistance resulting from the guidance.

[0035] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the ejection device comprises at least one stabilizing element. Preferably, the at least one stabilizing element is arranged between the at least two push chains, with one longitudinal axis of the stabilizing element being oriented perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes. As already discussed above with regard to the support element and the drive element, such a configuration or arrangement also offers the advantage of further mechanically stiffening the ejection device. This stiffening has the particular advantage that the ejection of the pharmaceutical production material can be carried out even more reliably and precisely. In addition, the transfer of the ejection device from the drive unit to the conveyor belt can also be carried out more reliably and precisely.

[0036] It can also prove advantageous if, with respect to an extension direction, the at least one stabilizing element is positioned between the drive element and the support element. Additionally or alternatively, with respect to the extension direction, the support element is positioned in front of the drive element and / or in front of the at least one stabilizing element. Such a design can, in particular, maximize the distance along the extension direction between the drive element and the support element. This provides further stiffening of the extension device, and the extension length along the extension direction can be increased, for example, beyond the longitudinal extent of the transport device. The space available between the drive element and the support element in the extension direction...The available space can be used advantageously in such a way that at least one stabilizing element can be attached within it, thus contributing to the additional stiffening of the extension mechanism.

[0037] Thus, the drive element, with respect to the extension direction, is positioned, for example, as the last element of the extension device, enabling the extension device to move the pharmaceutical production material as far as possible beyond the structural limits or the longitudinal extent of the transport system. This allows, for example, the pharmaceutical production material to be transferred or extended to an adjacent processing unit or processing station particularly advantageously and efficiently using the extension device.

[0038] The ejection device can be advantageously designed such that at least one of the following applies: - The mounting element is designed as a mounting strip, preferably with an L-shaped cross-section; - the drive element is designed as a drive strip, preferably with a rectangular cross-section; or - the at least one stabilizing element is designed as a stabilizing strip, preferably with a rectangular cross-section.

[0039] The L-shaped cross-section can advantageously serve several functions. One function is that the mounting of a push chain end link can be implemented in a particularly space-saving manner within the L-shaped cross-section. Furthermore, the L-shaped cross-section can provide both a bearing surface for the system element on the transport device and the push surface, which are advantageously oriented perpendicular to each other, in a structurally and structurally simple manner. The L-shaped system element can, for example, be made from a sheet metal part bent into an L-shape, preferably steel sheet. The rectangular shapes of the respective cross-sections of the drive element and the at least one stabilizing element are common structural profiles that are readily available as inexpensive semi-finished products and are therefore easy to machine.These strips can be manufactured either as hollow strips, for example from a steel material, or as solid material strips, for example from an aluminum material.

[0040] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical processing device for processing pharmaceutical production material, comprising: - an ejection device of the type described above; - a transport device that is movable relative to the pharmaceutical processing equipment, for transporting pharmaceutical production material, in particular pharmaceutical containers, within the pharmaceutical processing equipment along a transport direction; - a drive device for generating a thrust force and a thrust movement, which is coupled to the transmission device, preferably detachably, for transmitting the thrust force and the thrust movement to the transmission device; - a receiving and / or guiding device for receiving and / or guiding the ejection device; and - an actuating mechanism for adjusting the ejection device relative to the transport device from an inactive position, in which the ejection device is received in the receiving and / or guiding device, to an ejection position, in which the ejection device can be moved out of the receiving and / or guiding device by means of the drive device for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device.

[0041] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the ejection device according to the invention can also be achieved with the pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention. Reference can be made to the preceding statements in this regard.

[0042] Advantageous embodiments of the pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention also result from advantageous embodiments of the ejection device according to the invention. In this respect as well, reference can be made to the preceding explanations to avoid repetition.

[0043] Preferably, the drive device can be designed as a rotary drive and / or a linear drive. Preferably, the drive device as a rotary drive can be implemented in the form of at least one drive wheel (for example, a chain sprocket) which is non-rotatably connected to a drive shaft, wherein the at least one drive wheel can engage with the drive side of the at least one push chain to drive it and to transmit the push force and push motion to the at least one push chain.

[0044] The receiving and / or guiding device can advantageously comprise at least two functions. The first function can be to receive or store the extension device in its inactive position. The second function results from providing a guide track along which the at least one chain can be guided. It should be noted that the guide track can be implemented with considerable design flexibility for positioning the at least one chain.

[0045] The actuation mechanism can be understood as being designed as a linear actuation mechanism, meaning that the adjustment movement of the extension device from the inactive position to the extended position can be a linear displacement movement. In the assembled state, the adjustment movement can preferably be a vertical movement. The adjustment between the inactive position and the extended position can occur along a defined travel distance, which can be, for example, 25 mm or more, and in particular approximately 32 mm.

[0046] In the inactive position, the ejection device can be arranged relative to the transport device in such a way that the transport of the pharmaceutical production material is preferably not affected by the ejection device. This allows for the smooth transport of the pharmaceutical production material through the pharmaceutical processing equipment. However, in the ejection position, the ejection device is inherently positioned in the transport path of the pharmaceutical production material in order to come into contact with it for subsequent ejection from the pharmaceutical processing equipment.The actuation mechanism thus advantageously allows the influencing of the transport flow of the pharmaceutical production material when ejection from the pharmaceutical processing facility is desired, but in regular operation there is no influencing of the transport path and / or the transport flow of the pharmaceutical production material.

[0047] Furthermore, the present invention relates to another pharmaceutical processing device for processing pharmaceutical production material, comprising: - a discharge device comprising a system element having a system push surface for applying to the pharmaceutical production material and for discharging the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device along a discharge direction and a transmission device fixed to the system element; - a transport device that is movable relative to the pharmaceutical processing facility, for transporting the pharmaceutical production material within the pharmaceutical processing facility; - a drive device for generating a thrust force and a thrust movement, which is coupled to the transmission device for transmitting the thrust force and the thrust movement to the transmission device; - a receiving and / or guiding device for receiving and / or guiding the ejection device; and - an actuating mechanism for adjusting the ejection device relative to the transport device from an inactive position, in which the ejection device is received in the receiving and / or guiding device, to an ejection position, in which the ejection device can be moved out of the receiving and / or guiding device by means of the drive device, for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device.

[0048] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention can also be achieved with the further pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention. Reference can be made to the preceding statements in this regard.

[0049] Advantageous embodiments of the further pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention described above. In this respect, reference can also be made to the preceding explanations to avoid repetition.

[0050] In the other pharmaceutical processing equipment, the ejection device can, for example, be rigidly designed. In contrast to the pharmaceutical processing equipment described above, the transmission device in this case cannot include transmission elements that are movable relative to each other.

[0051] In particular, the ejection device of the additional pharmaceutical processing equipment can, for example, be arranged in an inactive position below a conveyor belt for the pharmaceutical production material when not in use, or laterally next to such a conveyor belt, and be moved into an ejection position onto the conveyor belt (for example, by sliding). This avoids positioning the ejection device in an inactive position above pharmaceutical production material, as is the case in the prior art.

[0052] The features of the pharmaceutical processing facility described below may also be present in the other pharmaceutical processing facility.

[0053] It can be advantageously further provided that the drive unit is fixed to the actuating mechanism for adjusting the drive unit together with the extension unit from the inactive position to the extended position, and vice versa. This type of kinematic relationship advantageously allows the drive unit to move synchronously from the inactive position to the extended position, and vice versa. Since an adjustment path must be overcome during this change of position, this is not necessary in this case by moving drive elements, but rather the drive unit can move along with the extension unit. In this respect, the drive unit can be structurally simpler and more cost-effective.

[0054] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the receiving and / or guiding device, in its assembled state, is arranged at least partially below the transport direction in the direction of gravity. In pharmaceutical processing equipment, no restrictions regarding installation space, such as limited space, are generally expected in the direction of gravity below the transport device during normal use. Therefore, this installation space below the transport device in the direction of gravity can be used particularly advantageously in the assembled state to accommodate the ejection device in its inactive position, at least partially. Moreover, this installation space can be made easily accessible, thus facilitating assembly, disassembly, and maintenance.

[0055] A further advantage arises in particular from the fact that the ejection device, in its inactive position, does not need to be positioned in the direction of gravity and, when mounted, above the pharmaceutical production material being transported. This can be particularly advantageous in that an airflow striking the pharmaceutical production material from above is not affected or interrupted by an ejection device located within it.As a result, the so-called first-air principle can be adhered to, which can mean a further improvement in the sterility of the pharmaceutical production material, because the at least partial arrangement of the ejection device in the direction of gravity below the transport device eliminates the possibility of particles from the sterile airflow being transferred from the ejection device to the pharmaceutical production material, which could lead to contamination of the latter and associated production disruptions.

[0056] The arrangement of the receiving and / or guiding device, at least in sections, in the direction of gravity below the transport device can be understood, for example, as meaning that this device has several guiding and / or receiving sections, at least one of which is arranged in the direction of gravity below the transport device.

[0057] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the pharmaceutical processing equipment includes a transfer zone by means of which the pharmaceutical production material can be transferred from an inlet area of ​​the pharmaceutical processing equipment to the transport device along the transport direction, wherein an end section of the receiving and / or guiding device opens into the transfer zone to release and move the ejection device from the receiving and / or guiding device. The transfer zone, which can also be referred to as a transition zone or threshold, can therefore be important for feeding the pharmaceutical production material flush and precisely from an upstream device or station first to the pharmaceutical processing equipment at its inlet and from there precisely and flush to the transport device. The end section can preferably be shaped as an end-end deflection section.

[0058] The opening into the transition area is advantageous because, in the direction of gravity, an additional installation space can be easily created below the transition area, in which the end section of the receiving and / or guiding device can thus be advantageously integrated. A further advantage that can result from this is that the extension device can be positioned adjacent to one end of the transport device. This enables a particularly efficient transfer of the extension device from the receiving and / or guiding device to the transport device, and vice versa.

[0059] It can be further advantageous if the transfer area includes a transfer plate with a transfer surface for feeding the pharmaceutical production material to the transport device, the transfer plate being fixed to the actuating mechanism. This design has the advantage that both the drive unit and the transfer plate can now be adjusted simultaneously with particular ease due to their rigid or fixed kinematic relationship to each other, as they are both fixed to the actuating mechanism. The transfer plate can preferably be shaped as a flat or planar plate.

[0060] Additionally, it is conceivable that the end section is arranged below the transfer plate in the direction of gravity. Alternatively, or in addition, it is conceivable that the drive unit is arranged below the transfer plate in the direction of gravity. Consequently, the extension mechanism can be moved outwards in the direction of gravity from below the transfer plate, which represents a simple design feature, especially if the transfer plate is flush with the transport device. This also advantageously simplifies the alignment and transfer of the extension mechanism from the receiving and / or guiding device to the transport device. Therefore, this kinematic relationship between the transfer plate and the transport device can also be advantageously utilized for the end section of the receiving and / or guiding device.Furthermore, such a design solution allows the drive unit to be positioned in close proximity to the end section, potentially resulting in high drive efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, the drive unit can at least partially engage with or be located within the end section.

[0061] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the transfer surface in the inactive position is flush with a transport surface of the transport device, and that in the ejection position, a release opening is created between the transfer surface and the transport surface, through which the ejection device can be pushed by the drive unit and onto the transport device. As explained above, this flush kinematic relationship can also be advantageous for precise alignment of the release opening with respect to the transport device. This can result, in particular, in safer transport and processing, or ejection, of the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0062] The release opening can be advantageously defined by the spatial relationship between the transfer plate and the transport device, so that the orientation of the release opening can result from this relationship, thus providing a particularly simple release opening in terms of structure and function. For example, the transfer plate can simply be moved linearly in the vertical direction, whereby the transfer surface and the transport surface can be aligned parallel in any position of the transfer plate due to their flush relationship, thus allowing the release opening to also have a defined orientation or positioning relative to the transport surface of the transport device. In this way, a particularly efficient and space-saving arrangement of the transfer plate, end section, drive device and / or receiving and / or guiding device can be achieved.

[0063] Furthermore, a floor guide device may be arranged between the transfer plate and the transport device in the transport and / or ejection direction for guiding the transmission device on the floor after exiting and / or entering the release opening(s). The floor guide device provides further improved guidance and transfer of the ejection device in general, and the transmission device in particular, from the receiving and / or guiding device to the transport device and vice versa. If the transmission device is designed with at least one push chain, the floor guidance is provided on the drive side of the push chain.

[0064] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the ejection device can be fully extended from the receiving and / or guiding device by means of the drive device and fully slid onto the transport device so that the coupling device of the drive element engages with the corresponding coupling device of the transport device to eject the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device. As already explained above in connection with the two interlocking coupling devices, the drive energy already provided for transporting the pharmaceutical production material by means of the transport device can advantageously also be used for the ejection device to eject the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing device.

[0065] This allows for a synergistic drive linkage between the drive unit and the transport unit, whereby, beyond a certain transport distance, the extension unit leaves the drive unit and is driven exclusively by the transport unit via the drive element. Therefore, it is not necessary to drive the extension unit along the entire transport distance of the transport unit via the drive unit, which allows the latter to be designed to be smaller, lighter, and more cost-effective. A further contribution to this can be made by the separate or spaced-apart construction of, for example, two end links of the at least one push chain, as this design eliminates the need for a continuous circulating chain, thus saving a large number of chain links or push chain links.

[0066] After the pharmaceutical production material has been ejected from the pharmaceutical processing unit, the ejection device can be moved by the transport device in the opposite direction of transport to allow it to be inserted into the receiving and / or guiding unit until it is fully inserted. Once fully inserted, the ejection device is preferably returned from the extended position to the inactive position by means of the actuating mechanism. Thus, the ejection process described above—first from the receiving and / or guiding unit onto the transport unit, followed by the ejection of the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing unit—can now be carried out in reverse order.Thus, a reversible ejection process can be provided by means of the ejection device, which is preferably automated and repeatable. Accordingly, the ejection of the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing equipment can be automated, further increasing the efficiency of the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0067] Furthermore, the receiving and / or guiding device may include at least one chain receiving guide for receiving and / or guiding at least one push chain. For example, the receiving and / or guiding device may include at least two chain receiving guides for receiving and / or guiding the at least two push chains. If only one chain receiving guide is provided, this can simplify the structure and design of the receiving and / or guiding device. However, if preferably at least two chain receiving guides are provided, in addition to the advantages of increased rigidity of the ejection device itself, the receiving and / or guiding of the at least two push chains can be more precise.

[0068] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the at least two chain guides each have two deflection sections and / or two linear chain guide sections, with each of the two deflection sections having a chain deflection angle of 90° relative to the at least two linear chain guide sections. A total chain deflection angle of 180° can be achieved by means of the two deflection sections. As explained above, the spatial relationship between the transfer plate and the transport device can influence the extension direction of the extension device from the release opening such that the extension direction is also essentially parallel to the transport surface.Against this background, a chain deflection angle of 180° is advantageous, as each individual chain guide section can be positioned and aligned parallel to the transport surface of the transport device in the direction of gravity below the transport device. This allows for particularly efficient use of the installation space.

[0069] Furthermore, the drive unit may include at least one sprocket for engaging and driving the at least one push chain and be coupled to a torque and / or angle sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the transport unit may include deflection pulleys for driving and deflecting the transport unit, preferably a conveyor belt, with at least one of the deflection pulleys being coupled to another torque and / or angle sensor. The respective angles of rotation can be detected by means of the torque and / or angle sensor of the drive unit and the additional torque and / or angle sensor of the at least one deflection pulley. This detection can allow the rotational speeds of the deflection pulleys and the at least one sprocket to be synchronized.This synchronization can be particularly advantageous in that there are no speed differences when the extension device is pushed onto the transport device, so that less wear can occur between these two components during the pushing process.

[0070] If the respective drive torque is also recorded, the respective drive power of the drive unit and the deflection pulleys can be determined. This power measurement can, in particular, enable the adjustment of power values ​​according to operating conditions. For example, at the beginning of the extension process of the extension unit onto the transport unit, more power can be transferred from the drive unit to the transmission unit than, for example, shortly before the unit leaves the transmission unit.

[0071] Furthermore, it may be provided that the drive unit and the transport unit are connected or connectable to a control and / or regulating unit configured to control and / or regulate the drive unit and the transport unit in such a way that the extension unit can be driven at an extension speed equal to the transport speed of the transport unit. As explained above, such a control or regulating unit can advantageously align the extension speed and the transport speed with each other in a very simple manner.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, it can be advantageous if the drive unit and the transport unit are connected or connectable to a control and / or regulation unit configured to control and / or regulate the drive unit and the transport unit depending on a position, preferably the coupling unit, of the drive element and, preferably, the corresponding coupling unit, of the transport unit. Position control enables even more precise mutual positional coupling between the drive element and the transport unit. The position of the drive element, preferably the coupling unit, and the transport unit, preferably the corresponding coupling unit, can be determined directly or indirectly by means of position sensors, e.g., rotary angle sensors. The latter detect the position of the drive element, or...preferably the coupling device, and the transport device, or preferably the corresponding coupling device, and transmit the recorded position data to the control and / or regulation device, in particular to engage the coupling devices with each other.

[0073] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for ejecting pharmaceutical production material, preferably pharmaceutical containers, from a pharmaceutical processing facility, preferably a sterilization tunnel, comprising the following steps: - Provision of an ejection device, in particular of the type described above; - Provision of a pharmaceutical processing facility of the type described above; - Adjusting the position of the extension device relative to the transport device from an inactive position, in which the extension device is received in the receiving and / or guiding device, to an extension position; - Driving and extending the extension device by means of the drive device, in the extension position, from the receiving and / or guiding device onto the transport device along an extension direction that corresponds to a transport direction of the transport device; and - Ejection of the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing facility using the ejection device.

[0074] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the ejection device and the pharmaceutical processing device can also be achieved with the method according to the invention. Reference can be made to the preceding explanations in this regard.

[0075] Advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention result from advantageous embodiments of the ejection device and the pharmaceutical processing device. In this regard, reference can also be made to the preceding explanations to avoid repetition.

[0076] According to a further step of this procedure, the actuation and movement of the ejection device from the receiving and / or guiding device onto the transport device can be carried out for at least as long as necessary until the ejection device, by means of its drive element, engages releasably in the transport device for the purpose of driving the ejection device by means of the transport device. This step of the procedure can, in particular, ensure a safe transition from the drive device to the transport device, which can, for example, enable a trouble-free transition from normal operation to the ejection mode of the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0077] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it is conceivable that, at least during the releasable engagement process of the drive element with the transport device or vice versa, an extension speed and / or an extension cycle from the receiving and / or guiding device is equal to a transport speed and / or a transport cycle of the transport device. As already explained above, a synchronization of the drive speed and the transport speed or the extension and transport cycles can take place, which is particularly advantageous in that it enables a particularly safe engagement of the drive element with the transport device.If the transmission device is designed using one or more push chains, the individual push chain links can be monitored by means of an optical monitoring device, for example a light barrier, so that, in particular, the start of the extension of the ejection device can be coordinated with the transport device at a position of at least one engagement opening of the transport device. This provides a further option for even more precise and reliable engagement.

[0078] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it can also be provided that the extension device is driven by the drive unit until the extension device is detachably separated from the drive unit. Since, for example, a chain drive is efficient, this efficient drive can advantageously be utilized right down to the last chain link, thus improving the overall efficiency.

[0079] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it is conceivable that the ejection device on the transport system is positioned at a distance from the pharmaceutical production material in the transport direction, or that the device element is in contact with the pharmaceutical production material. The pharmaceutical production material is then ejected from the pharmaceutical processing equipment by means of the ejection device either during or only after it has left the transport system. Since the pharmaceutical production material is driven or transported by the transport system anyway, a drive mechanism using the device element on the transport system is not strictly necessary, so such a distance can advantageously be provided.Only when the pharmaceutical production material leaves the transport system does this drive option cease to function, and the alternative drive option, in the form of the ejection element, then becomes advantageously usable. This allows for targeted and particularly efficient transport of the pharmaceutical production material. Furthermore, the distance between the components reduces the risk of damage or breakage to the pharmaceutical production material closest to the system element.

[0080] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it can be provided that, after the pharmaceutical production material has been ejected, the transport device is driven in a return direction opposite to the transport direction to return the ejection device to the drive unit, by which the ejection device is additionally driven and moved back into the receiving and / or guiding unit. The movement of the ejection device out of and into the receiving and / or guiding unit can therefore be automated and advantageously adapted in a reversible manner to the respective requirements for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0081] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it is conceivable that the ejection device is moved back into the receiving and / or guiding device until it has completely left the transport device and is received in the receiving and / or guiding device, after which the ejection device is moved from the ejection position to the inactive position. This creates a fully automatable, reversible, and efficient process for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material from the pharmaceutical processing equipment. Consequently, the ejection position described above can also be understood as the insertion position during insertion. In particular, this process does not disrupt the normal transport operation through the pharmaceutical processing equipment.

[0082] The following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with the drawings, serves to further explain the invention. A pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention, comprising an ejection device according to the invention, is described in a preferred embodiment, with which a method according to the invention can be carried out in a preferred embodiment for its operation.

[0083] They show: Fig. 1: a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a pharmaceutical processing device according to the invention; Fig. 2: a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an extension device according to the invention, coupled with a drive device according to the invention; Fig. 3: another schematic perspective view of the extension device and the drive device according to Fig. 2; Fig. 4: A schematic perspective view of the embodiment of the ejection device according to the invention. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3; Fig. 5: a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of the ejection device according to the invention Fig. 2 to 4 in a state partially pushed onto a transport device; Fig. 6: a schematic sectional view of the embodiment of the ejection device according to the invention Fig. 4 in an inactive position, recorded and guided in a recording and guidance facility; Fig. 7: a schematic sectional view of the embodiment of the ejection device according to the invention Fig. 6 in an extended position; Fig. 8: the schematic sectional view according to Fig. 6 with a schematic partial sectional view of a transport device; Fig. 9: the schematic sectional view according to Fig. 7 with a schematic partial sectional view of the transport device; Fig. 10: a schematic perspective detail view of a floor guide device with the transmission device of the ejection device according to the invention guided therein; Fig. 11: a schematic sectional view of the embodiment of the ejection device according to the invention Fig. 4 in the fully extended state and placed on the transport device; Fig. 12: A schematic sectional view of an actuating mechanism for actuating the ejection device according to the invention. Fig. 4; and Fig. 13: another schematic sectional view of the actuating mechanism according to Fig. 12.

[0084] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a pharmaceutical processing device 100 according to the invention.

[0085] The pharmaceutical processing unit 100 is designed as a sterilization tunnel 106 and includes a housing 104. The sterilization tunnel 106 can be designed in particular as a hot air tunnel for the thermal sterilization of the pharmaceutical production material 102.

[0086] A transport device 108 is arranged within the sterilization tunnel 106 for transporting the pharmaceutical production material 102 through the sterilization tunnel 106. The pharmaceutical production material 102 is according to Fig. 1 exemplified as a plurality of pharmaceutical containers 110, for example in the form of vials 110.

[0087] The transport device 108 is movable relative to the pharmaceutical processing device 100 for the transport of the pharmaceutical containers 110 within the pharmaceutical processing device 100 along a transport direction 112.

[0088] The transport device 108 comprises, with respect to the transport direction 112, an inlet-side end 114 and an outlet-side end 116. Based on Fig. Figure 1 shows that the inlet end 114 faces an inlet area 118 of the pharmaceutical processing equipment 100. Similarly, the outlet end 116 faces an outlet area 120 of the pharmaceutical processing equipment 100.

[0089] The pharmaceutical processing unit 100 comprises a transfer area 122, by means of which the pharmaceutical containers 110 can be transferred from the inlet area 118 of the pharmaceutical processing unit 100 to the transport unit 108 along the transport direction 112. The transfer area 122 is located, with respect to the transport direction 112, between the inlet-side end 114 of the transport unit 108 and the inlet area 118.

[0090] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an extension device 124 according to the invention, coupled with a drive device 126 according to the invention.

[0091] The pharmaceutical processing facility 100 according to Fig. 1 includes both the extension device 124 and the drive device 126, these devices not being in Fig. 1 are shown.

[0092] The in Fig. 1 already identifiable transition area 122 comprises according to Fig. 2. A transfer plate 128, which has a transfer surface 130 for feeding the pharmaceutical containers 110 to the transport device 108. In a transverse direction 132 to the transport direction 112, the transfer plate 128 is bounded by two lateral guides 134. The transfer plate 128 is essentially horizontally oriented in the assembled state. The pharmaceutical processing device 100 comprises, in the transfer area 122, a carrier plate 136, which is vertically oriented in the assembled state and to which several components or assemblies are attached, as described below (see also [reference to be added]). Fig. 3).

[0093] The pharmaceutical processing device 100 comprises a receiving and guiding device 138 for receiving and guiding the ejection device 124. The receiving and guiding device 138 is fixed to the carrier plate 136.

[0094] Furthermore, the pharmaceutical processing device 100 includes an actuating mechanism 140 for adjusting the ejection device 124 relative to the transport device 108 from an inactive position in which the ejection device 124 is received in the receiving and guiding device 138 (see also the following). Fig. 6 to 8).

[0095] The adjustment is made from the inactive position to an ejection position, in which the ejection device 124, guided by the drive device 126, can be moved out of the receiving and guiding device 138 to eject the pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing device 100 (see figure). Fig. 11).

[0096] The actuating mechanism 140 is fixed to the carrier plate 136. For fixing it to the carrier plate 136, the actuating mechanism 140 comprises two bearing blocks 142 in which a rotary lever shaft 144 is rotatably mounted by means of its respective ends. Furthermore, the actuating mechanism 140 comprises an actuating element 146, which according to Fig. 2 can be designed as a pneumatic cylinder. The actuating element 146 is in turn fixed to the carrier plate 136 via a fixing profile 150. The pneumatic cylinder 148 is rotatably connected by means of its actuating end 152 to a rotary lever 154, which is non-rotatably connected to the end of the rotary lever shaft 144.

[0097] According to Fig. 2 is merely an actuating element 146 arranged in the region of one end of the rotary lever shaft 144 for actuating only one rotary lever 154. The torque generated by means of the actuating element 146 and the rotary lever 154 connected to it via an actuating pivot joint 153 is transmitted via the rotary lever shaft 144 to its opposite end and to the further rotary lever 154 which is arranged there in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0098] Including Fig. Figure 12 shows that both rotary levers 154 are connected to a push rod 156 by means of a further actuating swivel joint 153. The push rod 156 has, in addition to the end on the respective rotary lever side, an opposite end which is connected via a further actuating swivel joint 153 to an adjusting transmission element 158 ​​(see Figure 12). Fig. 12) is connected.

[0099] The adjustment transmission element 158 ​​is in turn fixed to an adjustment carrier 160. The adjustment carrier 160 is designed as a J-shaped profile and its short and long legs respectively encompass the support plate 136 at its end facing the transition area 122. In the assembled state, the adjustment carrier 160 is adjustable in the vertical direction relative to the support plate 136 by means of the actuating device 140 in the form of the pneumatic cylinder 148, via the respective rotary levers 154 and the respective push rods 156, and via the respective adjustment transmission elements 158.

[0100] Based on Fig. 2 in conjunction with Fig. Figure 12 further shows that the connecting plate 128 is generally fixed to the actuating mechanism 140. In particular, a combination of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 can be seen that the transfer plate 128 rests on the adjustment carrier 160 and is connected to it, for example, by screwing.

[0101] Fig. Figure 3 shows another schematic perspective view of the extension device 124 and the drive device 126 according to Fig. 2.

[0102] In Fig. Figure 3 does not show the connecting plate 128. By omitting the connecting plate 128, the adjustment carrier 160 located underneath it can be shown, in relation to the assembled state. As mentioned above in connection with Fig. As explained in section 2, the adjusting carrier 160 can be actuated by means of the actuating mechanism 140 such that it can perform a vertical adjustment movement relative to its mounted state. The vertical adjustment movement is, in particular, a linear adjustment movement. For this purpose, two fixing receptacles 162 are fixed to the adjusting carrier 160, to each of which a linear guide rod 164 is fixed. The linear guide rod 164 is, in turn, mounted axially displaceable along its respective axis within two linear bearing units 166.

[0103] The linear bearing units 166 are in turn fixed to the carrier plate 136. The following section will describe the already mentioned Fig. 2. The drive unit 126, which is supported by or attached to the adjusting carrier 160, will be explained in more detail below.

[0104] The drive device 126 serves to generate a thrust force Fs and a thrust movement, which is detachably coupled to the transmission device 168 for the transmission of the thrust force Fs and the thrust movement to the transmission device 168 (cf. Fig. 6) The structure and function of the transmission device 168, which is an essential component of the ejection device 124, are described in detail below. Fig. 4 described.

[0105] The transmission device 168 can be detachably coupled to the drive device 126 for transmitting the thrust force Fs generated by the drive device 126 and the thrust movement. The transmission device 168 is, in this case, designed according to Fig. 3 is formed by means of two so-called push chains 170. Accordingly, the drive device 126 comprises two sprockets 172 for engaging and driving the two push chains 170. The two sprockets 172 are each rotationally fixed to a drive shaft 174. The drive shaft 174 extends along its axis essentially to the same extent as the adjusting carrier 160 extends along its longitudinal axis.

[0106] The drive shaft 174 is supported by means of appropriate ball bearings (not in Fig. (3 shown) on corresponding drive bearing blocks 176, each of which is fixed to the adjusting carrier 160. The drive shaft 174 has a drive-side end where it is rotationally fixed to a servo motor bevel gear unit 180 by means of a slip clutch 178, for the rotary drive of the drive shaft 174. At an end opposite the drive-side end, the drive shaft 174 is coupled to a torque and / or angle sensor 184 via another clutch 182. The torque and / or angle sensor 184 is connected via a corresponding signal line to a control and / or regulating device 186, which in turn is connected to the servo motor bevel gear unit 180 via another signal line.

[0107] The servomotor bevel gear unit 180 is fixed to the adjustment carrier 160. For this purpose, the adjustment carrier 160 has a flange-like fixing section 188 oriented perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, to which the servomotor bevel gear unit 180 is fixed.

[0108] As explained above, the transmission device 168 comprises two push chains 170. Alternatively, the transmission device 168 may also comprise, for example, one or three push chains 170. To accommodate or guide the push chains 170 in the event of... Fig. 3 The receiving and guiding device 138 comprises two chain receiving guides 190 for the respective receiving and guiding of the two push chains 170.

[0109] According to Fig. 3 are the two push chains 170 (further explanation in Fig. 4) each fully guided within the respective chain guides 190. The respective push chains 170 thus extend within the complete respective chain guide 190 from a respective free end 192 of the chain guide 19 to the respective sprocket 172 with which they engage (see also Fig. 6).

[0110] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of the ejection device 124 according to the invention. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3.

[0111] The ejection device 124 is used to eject pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing device 100, such as those found in Fig. 1 is shown.

[0112] The ejection device 124 comprises a system element 194. The system element 194 has a contact thrust surface 196 for contacting the pharmaceutical containers 110 and for ejecting the pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing device 100 along an ejection direction 198.

[0113] The extension device 124 further comprises a transmission device 168, which is fixed to the system element 194. The transmission device 168 can be coupled to a drive device 126, as already shown from Fig. 3 described, for the transmission of the thrust force Fs generated by the drive device 126 and the thrust movement to the system element 194.

[0114] The transmission device 168 comprises several transmission elements 200, which are coupled to one another by means of a respective rotary joint 204 for a relative movement in the form of a rotation of the several transmission elements 200 to change the shape and / or size of the transmission device 168. The change in shape can result in particular from the respective rotation of the several transmission elements 200 relative to each other. The change in size could result from the fact that, if the rotary joints 204 were designed, for example, as linear joints (not shown), this would lead to a change in the length of the transmission device.

[0115] The transmission device 168 according to Fig. 4 comprises the two push chains 170 for transmitting the push force Fs and the push motion in the form of a linear push motion to the system element 194. Accordingly, the several transmission elements 200 are designed as push chain links 200.

[0116] The two push chains 170 each comprise two end push chain links 204 for the physical limitation of the respective push chain 170 along a chain longitudinal axis KL. The respective end push chain links 204 are spaced apart from one another. This means that, unlike the other so-called intermediate push chain links, they are not connected to each other by means of swivel joints 202, so that a closed, continuous push chain 170 cannot be formed. Rather, the respective push chain 170 is divided into a, in Fig. The expanded linear state shown in section 4 can be converted, which would not be possible with an endlessly closed push chain of this kind. In this respect, this design allows the two push chains 170 to be positioned on a flat or planar surface, such as that of the transport device (see section 4). Fig. 8), to put on.

[0117] Each end link 204 of the two push chains 170 is fixed to the mounting element 194, and the other end link 204 is designed as a free end link 204. The free end link 204 is located on the side of each push chain 170 facing away from the mounting element 194. The free end link 204 makes it possible, in particular, to operate the extension device, cf. Fig. 3, to move out of the chain guides 190 by means of the sprockets 172 and to be temporarily released from the respective end link 204 of the respective sprocket 172 after leaving them.

[0118] In Fig. Figure 4 shows the two push chains 170 in an expanded state, in which they are, for example, on the transport device 108 of the pharmaceutical processing device 100. Fig. 1 can be laid down. In this expanded and in particular linearly or straight expanded state, the respective chain longitudinal axes KL are aligned parallel to each other, and the two push chains 170 can preferably be identically designed.

[0119] The ejection device according to Fig. 4 further comprises a drive element 206, which is fixed to the two push chains 170 and which is connected to the transport device 108 (see, for example, Fig. 1) for the pharmaceutical processing device 100 detachably coupled is for the transmission of a transport movement and transport force of the transport device 108 to the drive element 206.

[0120] The drive element 206 serves to engage with a corresponding coupling device of the transport device 108 or, conversely, to establish a detachable coupling between the drive element 206 and the transport device 108. The coupling device 208 comprises, according to Fig. 4 at least one coupling advantage 210, of which in Fig. Figure 4 shows four examples. It is understood that more or fewer than four coupling projections 210 may also be provided. The same applies to the corresponding coupling device of the transport device 108, which may have at least one coupling opening (for example, four corresponding coupling openings), whereby more or fewer than four corresponding coupling openings may be provided on or in the transport device 108.

[0121] The drive element 206 is according to Fig. 4 arranged between the two push chains 170, wherein a drive element longitudinal axis AEL is aligned perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes KL.

[0122] The support element 194 is also arranged between the two push chains 170, with one longitudinal axis of the support element ANL oriented perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes KL. The support element 194 also projects beyond the two push chains 170 on both sides along its longitudinal axis ANL by means of two end sections 212. Each end section 212 has a free end at which a side guide element 214 is arranged. The side guide elements 214 can, for example, each be designed as a side guide roller.

[0123] The control and / or regulating device 186 is further configured to engage the coupling devices with each other and to control and / or regulate the drive device 126 and the transport device 108 depending on a position (preferably of the coupling device 208) of the drive element 206 and (preferably of the corresponding coupling device) of the transport device 108.

[0124] The position of the drive element 206, preferably the coupling device 208, and the transport device 108, preferably the corresponding coupling device, are determined by means of appropriate position sensors, preferably rotary angle sensors 184, 238 (see Fig. 3 and Fig. 8) The latter detect the position of the drive element 206, preferably the coupling device 208, and the transport device 108, preferably the corresponding coupling device, and transmit the detected position data to the control and / or regulating device 186.

[0125] Additionally or alternatively, the respective position of other components of the extension device 124, such as the push chains 170, the system element 194 and / or the at least one stabilizing element 216, can also be recorded.

[0126] The extension device 124 further comprises a stabilizing element 216, which is fixed to the two push chains 170 and is arranged between the two push chains in the fixed state. A corresponding longitudinal axis SEL of the stabilizing element is oriented perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes KL. Fig. Figure 4 shows only one example of a stabilizing element 216. The extension device 124 can comprise several stabilizing elements 216, the respective longitudinal axis SEL of which can be oriented perpendicular to the respective longitudinal axes KL of the chain.

[0127] The stabilizing element 216 is positioned between the drive element 206 and the support element 194 with respect to the extension direction 198. Accordingly, the support element 194 is positioned in front of the drive element 206 and in front of the stabilizing element 216 with respect to the extension direction 198.

[0128] Based on Fig. Figure 4 shows that the mounting element 194 is preferably designed as a mounting strip. The mounting strip preferably has an L-shaped cross-section. Furthermore, the drive element 206 is designed as a drive strip and the stabilizing element 216 as a stabilizing strip. Both the drive strip and the stabilizing strip can preferably have a rectangular cross-section.

[0129] The perspective view of the extension device 124 shows that it is designed as a frame-like extension device 124. Along the extension direction 198, this frame-like design is bounded by the drive bar 206 and the support bar 194. Accordingly, the frame-like extension device 124 is bounded along one direction along the longitudinal axis of the drive element AEL, the longitudinal axis of the stabilizing element SEL, and the longitudinal axis of the support element ANL by the two push chains 170. However, along the extension direction 198, both free chain end sections of the two push chains 170 project beyond the drive element 206.

[0130] Based on Fig. Figure 4 shows a particularly shape-changing embodiment of the ejection device 124. This shape change can be achieved, in particular, by rotating the respective push chain links relative to each other, so that a shape change of the ejection device 124 can be achieved, for example, by deflection using the sprockets 172 as shown. Fig. 6 can be achieved.

[0131] According to an alternative design of the ejection device 124, however not in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 13, the two push chains 170 can also be replaced by rigid push rods or push bars. In this case, a rigid, frame-like extension device would result. The rigid properties are primarily due to the rigid push bars, which cannot provide any change in shape caused by movement relative to each other. Consequently, a rigid transmission device would be provided by means of the two rigid push bars.

[0132] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of the ejection device 124 according to the invention. Fig. 2 to 4 in a state partially pushed onto a transport device 108.

[0133] In Fig. Figure 5 shows the extension device 124 adjusted relative to the transport device 108 in the extension position, in which the extension device 124 can then be moved out of the receiving and guiding device 138 by means of the drive device 126 and can be slid onto the transport device 108 by means of the drive device 126. The extension position is determined by Fig. 5 can be seen by the vertically raised guide plate 128, which has been moved from the inactive position to the extended position by means of the actuating mechanism 140 and is held there.

[0134] By means of the two side guide elements 214, the system element 194 is guided by a side boundary 107 of the transport device 108 transversely to the transport direction 112.

[0135] Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic sectional view of the embodiment of the ejection device 124 according to the invention. Fig. 4 in an inactive position, in which it is received and guided in a reception and management facility 138.

[0136] As already mentioned in connection with Fig. 3 explains that the receiving and guiding device 138 comprises two chain receiving guides 190, of which only one is in Fig. 6 is shown in the average. Based on Fig. Figure 6 shows that the chain guide 190 has two deflection sections 218 and 220 and two linear chain guide sections 222 and 224. The two deflection sections 218 and 220 have a chain deflection angle of 90° relative to the two linear chain guide sections 222 and 224, with these angles being examples only. Other angles are, of course, also possible.

[0137] The respective chain mounting guide 190 has a drive-side curved mounting and guide rail 226 for receiving and guiding a drive side of the push chain 170. The drive side of the push chain can be understood in particular as the side into which the sprocket 172 engages.

[0138] Furthermore, each chain mounting guide 190 includes a rear-side curved mounting and guide rail 228 for receiving and guiding the back side of the respective push chain 170. The back side of the push chain 170 is, in particular, the side that is opposite the engagement side and, in particular, is not in engagement with the sprocket 172.

[0139] The chain receiving guide 190 is designed to have an intermediate deflection section 220, which is arranged between the two linear chain receiving guide sections 222, 224, and includes an end deflection section 218. The latter can correspond to an end section 230 of the chain receiving guide 190. With respect to the receiving and guiding device 138, which accordingly comprises two such chain receiving guides 190, the latter two of these end sections 230 preferably include for releasing and moving the ejection device 124 out of the receiving and guiding device 138. Fig. 6 shows that such a final section 230 leads into the transition area 122.

[0140] In contrast to the intermediate deflection section 220, the drive side of the push chain 170 in the end section 230 is not deflected by the drive-side arc receiving and guide rail 226, but by the sprocket 172. On the back side, the push chain 170 in the area of ​​the end deflection section 218 or in the end section 230 is also not guided by the back-side arc receiving and guide rail 228, but by a separate back guide element 232.

[0141] The back guide element 232 is movable relative to the two bow receiving and guide rails 226, 228 such that it can be adjusted together with the transfer plate 128 by means of the actuating mechanism 140. This is because a rear guide for the push chain 170 is provided both in the inactive position, in Fig. 6 shown, as well as in the extended position, in Fig. 7 shown, can be guaranteed.

[0142] Fig. It can be further seen from Figure 6 that the end section 230 is arranged in the direction of gravity g below the transfer plate 128, with the drive unit 126 also located there. Fig. Figure 6 shows only the sprocket 172 and the drive shaft 174, arranged in the direction of gravity g below the transfer plate 128. Since the drive unit 126 and the end section 230 have a fixed spatial relationship to each other with respect to the transfer plate 128, this relationship of the arrangement below the transfer plate 128 applies both in the inactive position and in the extended position, which is shown in Fig. 7 is shown.

[0143] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic sectional view of the embodiment of the ejection device 124 according to the invention. Fig. 6 in an extended position;

[0144] Fig. Figure 8 shows the schematic sectional view according to Fig. 6 with a schematic partial sectional view of the transport device 108.

[0145] The transport device 108 is designed as a conveyor belt, which is driven by means of two end rollers 234, of which in Fig. 8 only shows a roller 234 on the transition area side, which is driven.

[0146] In Fig. Figure 8 shows the inactive position of the extension device 124, that is, the extension device 124 is fully received in the receiving and guiding device 138.

[0147] The inactive position can be recognized in particular by the fact that the transition surface 130 (cf. Fig. 2) the transfer plate 128 is aligned flush with a transport surface 236 of the transport device 108 and consequently the extension device 124 cannot be slid onto the transport surface 236 of the transport device 108.

[0148] According to Fig. Figure 8 further shows that the deflection pulley 234 is coupled to another torque and / or angle sensor 238, which in turn is connected to the control and / or regulating device 186 via a signal line according to Fig. 3 is connected.

[0149] Accordingly, the control and / or regulating device 186, which is connected to the drive device 126 and the transport device 108 according to Fig. 3 is connected, configured to control and / or regulate the drive unit 126 and the transport unit 108 such that the extension unit 124 can be driven at an extension speed equal to the transport speed of the transport unit 108. This facilitates the sliding of the extension unit 124 onto the transport unit 108.

[0150] Fig. Figure 9 shows the schematic sectional view according to Fig. 7 with a schematic partial sectional view of the transport device 108. Fig. 9, however, differs from Fig. 8 such that the extension device 124 is now in the extension position.

[0151] In the ejection position, a release opening 240 is created between the transfer surface 130 and the transport surface 236 (also in Fig. 5), through which the extension device 124 can be pushed by means of the drive device 126 and can be pushed onto the transport device 108, preferably onto the transport surface 236.

[0152] Furthermore, it is from Fig. 9 shows that in the transport direction 112 and in the extension direction 198, a floor guide device 242 is arranged between the transfer plate 128 and the transport device 108 for the floor-side guidance of the transmission device 168 in the form of a single push chain 170, which in Fig. 9 is shown. Of course, a second floor guide device 242 can also be provided for the floor-side guidance of a second (however not in Fig. (9 shown) push chain 170. The bottom-side guidance of the push chain takes place in particular after exiting the release opening 240 or before re-entering the release opening 240.

[0153] Fig. Figure 10 shows a schematic perspective detail view of a floor guide device 242 with a transmission device 168 of the ejection device 124 according to the invention guided therein.

[0154] The floor guide device 242 has two floor guide elements 244 (only one in Fig. (10 shown) on with two guide grooves 246 incorporated therein, which in the assembled state are aligned parallel to the extension direction 198 and the transport direction 112, respectively. In addition, the two guide grooves 246 extend symmetrically to a central axis M, which is aligned centrally to an axial gear width, with respect to the shaft axis of the drive shaft 174, of the sprocket 172.

[0155] In the direction of gravity g above the floor guide element 244, a light barrier 248 is positioned, by means of which the position of each chain link 200 can be detected. The light barrier 248 is also connected or connectable to the control and / or regulating device 186. By knowing the position of each chain link 200, even more precise coupling between the extension device 124 and the transport device 108 can be achieved during extension and vice versa during retraction.

[0156] Fig. Figure 11 shows a schematic sectional view of the embodiment of the ejection device 124 according to the invention. Fig. 4 in the fully extended state and placed on the transport device 108

[0157] According to Fig. 11 The extension device 124 is completely pushed out of the receiving and guiding device 138 by means of the drive device 126 and completely pushed onto the transport device 108 for engagement of the coupling device 208 of the drive element 206 (cf. Fig. 4) into the corresponding coupling device of the transport device 108 (not shown in the figures) for pushing out the pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing device 100.

[0158] Based on Fig. Figure 11 again illustrates the basic principle of the present invention, namely that the pharmaceutical containers 110 are no longer located on the transport device 108, but rather on an outlet-side transfer area 250. Although the pharmaceutical containers 110 are no longer in contact with the transport surface 236, they can now be transported along the ejection direction 198 by means of the ejection device 124 along a transport path that extends beyond the maximum longitudinal extent of the transport device 108 in the transport direction 112. Accordingly, the ejection device 124 can be seen as a kind of extension solution for the transport device 108, in order to safely transport the pharmaceutical containers 110 even beyond the structural limits of the transport device 108 and / or the processing station 100 (see Figure 11). Fig. 1) to postpone.

[0159] After the pharmaceutical containers 110 have been ejected from the pharmaceutical processing unit 100, the ejection device 124 can be moved by means of the transport device 108 in the opposite direction to the transport direction 112. This allows the ejection device 124 to be inserted into the receiving and guiding unit 138 through the release opening 240. In this case, the insertion process continues until the ejection device 124 is completely inserted into the receiving and guiding unit 138. In this respect, the ejection position can also be understood as the insertion position.

[0160] Thus, a fully automatable, reversibly repeatable and efficient process for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material 102 from the pharmaceutical processing facility 100 can be created.

[0161] In the fully retracted state, the extension device 124 can then be reset from the extension position to the inactive position by means of the actuating mechanism 140.

[0162] Fig. Figure 12 shows a schematic sectional view of an actuating mechanism 140 for actuating the ejection device 124 according to the invention. Fig. 4. In Fig. 12 the ejection device 124 is in its inactive position.

[0163] Fig. Figure 13 shows another schematic sectional view of the actuating mechanism 140 according to Fig. 12. In Fig. 13 the extension device 124 is in its extension position.

[0164] In the Fig. 12 and Fig. Figure 13 shows a detailed sectional view of the actuating mechanism 140, whereby, with regard to its structure and function for adjusting the extension device 124 from the inactive position to the extension position and vice versa, reference is made to the description in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 is referred to.

[0165] An embodiment of a method according to the invention for ejecting the pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing device 100, in the form of the sterilization tunnel 116, is described below, which in a preferred embodiment comprises the following steps: - Provision of the ejection device 124; - Provision of the pharmaceutical processing equipment 100; - Adjusting the position of the extension device 124 relative to the transport device 108 from an inactive position, in which the extension device 124 is received in the receiving and guiding device 138, to an extension position; - Driving and extending the extension device 124 by means of the drive device 126, in the extension position, from the receiving and / or guide device 138 onto the transport device 108 along the extension direction 198, which corresponds to the transport direction 112 of the transport device 108; and - Ejection of the pharmaceutical production material 102 from the pharmaceutical processing unit 100 by means of the ejection device 124.

[0166] The advantages already mentioned in connection with the explanation of the ejection device 124 and the pharmaceutical processing device 100 according to the invention can also be achieved with the method according to the invention. Reference can be made to the preceding explanations in this regard.

[0167] Before the process for ejecting the pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing unit 100 can take place, it may be necessary that there are no longer any pharmaceutical containers 110 on the transfer plate 128 at the tunnel inlet. Containers 110 positioned in this way can, for example, first be automatically pushed from the transfer plate 128 onto the transport unit 108 by means of a slide (such as a so-called QTB slide arm; not shown in the figures).

[0168] According to a further step of this procedure, it can be provided that the driving and moving of the extension device from the receiving and guiding device 138 onto the transport device 108 takes place at least until the extension device 124, by means of its drive element 206, engages releasably in the transport device 108 for the additional driving of the extension device 124 by means of the transport device 108.

[0169] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it is conceivable that, at least during the releasable engagement process of the drive element 206 in the transport device 108, the extension speed and / or the extension cycle from the receiving and guiding device 138 is equal to a transport speed and / or a transport cycle of the transport device 108. Thus, a synchronization of the drive speed and the transport speed can be achieved, which is particularly advantageous in that it enables a particularly safe engagement of the drive element 206 in the transport device 108.

[0170] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it can also be provided that the extension device 124 is driven by the drive device 126 until the extension device 124 is detachably separated from the drive device 126.

[0171] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it is also conceivable that the system element 194 of the ejection device 124 on the transport device 108 has a distance from the pharmaceutical containers 110 in the transport direction 112. Alternatively, the system element 194 can be in contact with the pharmaceutical containers 110 (see figure). Fig. 5).

[0172] The pharmaceutical containers 110 are preferably pushed out of the pharmaceutical processing device 100 by means of the push-out device 124 only after the pharmaceutical containers 110 have left the transport device 108.

[0173] Only when the pharmaceutical production material leaves the transport device 108 does this drive option cease to be available, and the other drive option, in the form of the ejection element 124, then becomes advantageously usable. This allows for targeted and particularly efficient transport. Furthermore, the distance between the pharmaceutical containers 110 located closest to the system element 194 reduces the risk of damage or breakage.

[0174] According to a further step of the procedure described above, it can be provided that after the pharmaceutical containers 110 have been pushed out, the transport device 108 is driven in a return direction opposite to the transport direction 112 to return the push-out device 124 to the drive device 126, by means of which the push-out device 124 is additionally driven and moved back into the receiving and guiding device 138.

[0175] The movement of the ejection device 124 out of or into the receiving and guiding device 138 can therefore be automated and advantageously adapted in a reversible manner to the respective requirements for ejecting the pharmaceutical containers 110 from the pharmaceutical processing device 100.

[0176] In a further step of the procedure described above, it is also conceivable that the extension device 124 is moved back into the receiving and guiding device 138 until the extension device 124 has completely left the transport device 108 and is received in the receiving and guiding device 138, after which the extension device 124 is moved from the extension position to the inactive position. Reference symbol list 100 pharmaceutical processing facilities 102 pharmaceutical production materials 104 cases 106 sterilization tunnels 107 page limit 108 Transport equipment 110 pharmaceutical containers 112 Direction of transport 114 entrance end 116 exit-side end 118 Entrance area 120 Exit area 122 Transition area 124 Ejection device 126 Drive unit 128 Connecting plate 130 transition area 132 Transverse direction 134 lateral guide 136 Carrier plate 138 Reception and Management Facility 140 Actuating mechanism 142 Bearing block 144 Rotary lever shaft 146 Actuating element 148 pneumatic cylinders 150 Definition profile 152 End of operation 153 Actuating swivel joint 154 rotary levers 156 Push rod 158 Adjustment transmission element 160 adjustable carriers 162 Recording of determinations 164 The linear guide rod 166 linear bearing unit 168 Transmission device 170 push chain 172 sprocket 174 Drive shaft 176 Drive bearing block 178 Slip clutch 180 servo motor right angle gear unit 182 more clutches 184 Torque and / or angle sensor 186 Control and / or regulating device 188 Section for determining the location 190 chain mounting guide 192 free ending 194 Plant element 196 mm thrust area 198 Ejection direction 200 transmission element 202 Swivel joint 204 End push chain link 206 Drive element 208 Coupling device 210 coupling advantage 212 End sections of the plant element 214 Side guide element 216 Stabilizing element 218 Deflection section 220 Deflection section 222 Chain mounting guide section 224 Chain mounting guide section 226 drive-side arc mounting and guide rail 228 rear arch support and guide rail 230 End section of the chain mounting guides 232 Back guide element 234 Deflection pulley 236 transport area 238 additional torque and / or angle sensor 240 Release opening 242 Floor guide device 244 Floor guide element 246 Guide groove 248 Light barrier 250 exit-side transition area M Central axis AEL drive element longitudinal axis KL chain longitudinal axis ANL Plant element longitudinal axis SEL stabilizing element longitudinal axis 9 Direction of gravity

Claims

[1] Ejection device (124) for ejecting pharmaceutical production material (102), preferably pharmaceutical containers (110), from a pharmaceutical processing device (100), preferably a sterilization tunnel (106), comprising: - a system element (194) comprising a system push surface (196) for contacting the pharmaceutical production material (102) and for pushing the pharmaceutical production material (102) out of the pharmaceutical processing device (100) along a push-out direction (198); and - a transmission device (168) which is fixed to the system element (194); wherein the transmission device (168) is coupleable with a drive device (126) for transmitting a thrust force and / or a thrust movement generated by the drive device (126) to the system element (194), and wherein the transmission device (168) comprises several transmission elements (200) which are coupled to each other by means of a respective joint, preferably a rotary joint (202), for a relative movement, preferably rotation, of the several transmission elements (200) to each other for changing the shape and / or size of the transmission device (168). [2] Ejection device (124) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the transmission device (168) comprises at least one push chain (170) for transmitting the push force and / or push movement to the system element (194), wherein the multiple transmission elements (200) are designed as push chain links. [3] Ejection device (124) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the at least one push chain (170) comprises two end push chain links (204) for the physical limitation of the push chain (170) along a chain longitudinal axis (KL), wherein the end push chain links (204) are spaced apart from each other. [4] Ejection device (124) according to claim 3, characterized by , that one end push chain link (204) is fixed to the attachment element (194) and / or that the further end push chain link (204) is designed as a free end push chain link (204) which is arranged on a side of the push chain (170) facing away from the attachment element (194). [5] Ejection device (124) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized by, that the transmission device (168) comprises at least two push chains (170) whose respective chain longitudinal axes (KL) are aligned at least sectionally parallel, wherein the at least two push chains (170) are preferably identical in design. [6] Ejection device (124) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the ejection device (124) comprises a drive element (206) which is fixed to the transmission device (168) and which can be detachably coupled to a transport device (108) for the pharmaceutical processing device (100) for the transmission of a transport movement and / or transport force of the transport device (108) to the drive element (206). [7] Ejection device (124) according to claim 6, characterized by, that the drive element (206) comprises a coupling device (208) for engaging with a corresponding coupling device of the transport device (108) or conversely for establishing a detachable coupling between the drive element (206) and the transport device (108), wherein the coupling device (208) preferably comprises at least one coupling projection (210) and the corresponding coupling device of the transport device (108) preferably comprises at least one corresponding coupling opening. [8] Ejection device (124) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by , that the drive element (206) is arranged between the at least two push chains (170), wherein a drive element longitudinal axis (AEL) is aligned perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes (KL). [9] Ejection device (124) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized by, that the support element (194) is arranged at least sectionally between the at least two push chains (170), wherein a support element longitudinal axis (ANL) is aligned perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes (KL), and wherein the support element (194) preferably projects beyond the at least two push chains (170) on both sides along the support element longitudinal axis (ANL) by means of two end sections (212). [10] Ejection device (124) according to one of claims 5 to 9, characterized by , that the extension device (124) comprises at least one stabilizing element (216) which is fixed to the transmission device (168) and which is arranged between the at least two push chains (170), wherein a stabilizing element longitudinal axis (SEL) is aligned perpendicular to the respective chain longitudinal axes (KL). [11] Ejection device (124) according to one of claims 5 to 10, characterized by, that with respect to the extension direction (198) the at least one stabilizing element (216) is positioned between the drive element (206) and the support element (194) and / or wherein with respect to the extension direction (198) the support element (194) is positioned in front of the drive element (206) and / or in front of the at least one stabilizing element (216). [12] Ejection device (124) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one of the following is true: - the mounting element (194) is designed as a mounting strip, preferably with an L-shaped cross-section; - the drive element (206) is designed as a drive strip, preferably with a rectangular cross-section; or - the at least one stabilizing element (216) is designed as a stabilizing strip, preferably with a rectangular cross-section. [13] Pharmaceutical processing facility (100) for processing pharmaceutical production material (102), comprising: - an ejection device (124) according to one of the preceding claims; - a transport device (108) that is movable relative to the pharmaceutical processing device (100) for transporting pharmaceutical production material (102), in particular pharmaceutical containers (110), within the pharmaceutical processing device (100) along a transport direction (112); - a drive device (126) for generating a thrust force and a thrust movement, which is coupled to the transmission device (168), preferably detachably, for transmitting the thrust force and the thrust movement to the transmission device (168); - a receiving and / or guiding device (138) for receiving and / or guiding the ejection device (124); and - an actuating mechanism (140) for adjusting the ejection device (124) relative to the transport device (108) from an inactive position, in which the ejection device (124) is received in the receiving and / or guiding device (138), to an ejection position, in which the ejection device (124) can be moved out of the receiving and / or guiding device (138) by means of the drive device (126) for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material (102) from the pharmaceutical processing device (100). [14] Pharmaceutical processing facility (100) for processing pharmaceutical production material (102), comprising: - a discharge device (124) comprising a system element (194) having a system thrust surface (196) for contacting the pharmaceutical production material (102) and for discharging the pharmaceutical production material (102) from the pharmaceutical processing device (100) along a discharge direction (198) and a transmission device (168) which is fixed to the system element (194); - a transport device (108) that is movable relative to the pharmaceutical processing device (100) for transporting the pharmaceutical production material (102) within the pharmaceutical processing device (100); - a drive device (126) for generating a thrust force and a thrust movement, which is coupled to the transmission device (168) for transmitting the thrust force and the thrust movement to the transmission device (168); - a receiving and / or guiding device (138) for receiving and / or guiding the ejection device (124); and - an actuating mechanism (140) for adjusting the ejection device (124) relative to the transport device (108) from an inactive position, in which the ejection device (124) is received in the receiving and / or guiding device (138), to an ejection position, in which the ejection device (124) can be moved out of the receiving and / or guiding device (138) by means of the drive device (126) for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material (102) from the pharmaceutical processing device (100). [15] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to claim 13 or claim 14, characterized by, that the actuating mechanism (140) is fitted with the drive device (126) for adjusting the drive device (126) together with the extension device (124) from the inactive position to the extension position and vice versa. [16] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized by that the receiving and / or guiding device (138) is arranged at least sectionally below the transport device (108) in the direction of gravity when assembled. [17] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to claim 15 or claim 16, characterized by, that the pharmaceutical processing facility (100) includes a transfer area (122) by means of which the pharmaceutical production material (102) can be transferred from an entry area (118) of the pharmaceutical processing facility (100) to the transport facility (108) along the transport direction (112), wherein an end section (230) of the receiving and / or guiding device (138) opens into the transfer area (122) for releasing and moving the ejection device (124) out of the receiving and / or guiding device (138). [18] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to claim 17, characterized by , that the transfer area (122) comprises a transfer plate (128) which has a transfer surface (130) for supplying the pharmaceutical production material (102) to the transport device (108), wherein the transfer plate (128) is fixed to the actuating mechanism (140). [19] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to claim 18, characterized by , that the end section (230) is arranged in the direction of gravity below the diverting plate (128) and / or wherein the drive device (126) is arranged in the direction of gravity below the diverting plate (128). [20] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to claim 18 or claim 19, characterized by , that the transition surface (130) in the inactive position is aligned flush with a transport surface (236) of the transport device (108) and in the extension position a release opening (240) is created between the transition surface (130) and the transport surface (236), through which the extension device (124) can be pushed by means of the drive device (126) and pushed onto the transport device (108). [21] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized by, that in the transport direction (112) and / or ejection direction (198) a floor guide device (242) is arranged between the transfer plate (128) and the transport device (108) for the floor-side guidance of the transmission device (168) after exit and / or before entry from / into the release opening (240). [22] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 21, characterized by , that the ejection device (124) can be fully ejected from the receiving and / or guiding device (138) by means of the drive device (126) and fully slid onto the transport device (108) for the coupling device (208) of the drive element (206) to engage with the corresponding coupling device of the transport device (108) for ejecting the pharmaceutical production material (102) from the pharmaceutical processing device (100). [23] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 22, characterized by , that after the pharmaceutical production material (102) has been ejected from the pharmaceutical processing device (100), the ejection device (124) can be moved by means of the transport device (108) in the opposite direction of transport (112) to insert the ejection device (124) into the receiving and / or guiding device (138) until the ejection device (124) is fully received therein, wherein in the fully received state the ejection device (124) can be reset from the ejection position to the inactive position by means of the actuating mechanism (140). [24] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 23, characterized by , that the receiving and / or guiding device (138) comprises at least one chain receiving guide (190) for receiving and / or guiding at least one push chain (170). [25] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to claim 24, characterized by , that the at least two chain receiving guides (190) each have two deflection sections (218, 220) and / or two linear chain receiving guide sections (222, 224), wherein the respective two deflection sections (218, 220) each have a chain deflection angle of 90° to the at least two linear chain receiving guide sections (222, 224). [26] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to one of claims 13, 24 or 25, characterized by, that the drive device (126) comprises at least one sprocket (172) for engaging and driving the at least one push chain (170) and is coupled with a torque and / or angle sensor (184), and / or wherein the transport device (108) comprises deflection rollers (234) for driving and deflecting the transport device (108), preferably a conveyor belt, wherein at least one of the several deflection rollers (234) is coupled with a further torque and / or angle sensor (238). [27] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 26, characterized by, that the drive device (126) and the transport device (108) are connected or connectable to a control and / or regulating device (186) which is configured to control and / or regulate the drive device (126) and the transport device (108) in such a way that the extension device (124) can be driven at an extension speed which is equal to a transport speed of the transport device (108). [28] Pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 27, characterized by, that the drive device (126) and the transport device (108) are connected or connectable to a control and / or regulation device (186) which is configured to control and / or regulate the drive device (126) and the transport device (108) depending on a position, preferably of the coupling device (208), of the drive element (206) and, preferably of the corresponding coupling device, of the transport device (108). [29] Method for ejecting pharmaceutical production material (102), preferably pharmaceutical containers (110), from a pharmaceutical processing facility (100), preferably sterilization tunnel (106), comprising the following steps: - Providing an ejection device (124), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 12; - Providing a pharmaceutical processing facility (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 28; - Adjusting the position of the extension device (124) relative to the transport device (108) from an inactive position, in which the extension device (124) is received in the receiving and / or guiding device (138), to an extension position; - Driving and extending the extension device (124) by means of the drive device (126), in the extension position, from the receiving and / or guide device (138) onto the transport device (108) along an extension direction (198) that corresponds to a transport direction (112) of the transport device (108); and - Ejection of the pharmaceutical production material (102) from the pharmaceutical processing equipment (100) by means of the ejection device (124). [30] Method according to claim 29, characterized by, that the driving and moving of the extension device (124) out of the receiving and / or guiding device (138) onto the transport device (108) takes place for at least as long as it takes for the extension device (124) to engage releasably in the transport device (108) by means of its drive element (206) for driving the extension device (124) by means of the transport device (108). [31] Method according to claim 30, characterized by , that at least during the releasable engagement process of the drive element (206) into the transport device (108) or vice versa, an extension speed and / or an extension cycle from the receiving and / or guiding device (138) is equal to a transport speed and / or a transport cycle of the transport device (108). [32] Method according to any one of claims 29 to 31, characterized by, that the extension device (124) is driven by the drive device (126) until the extension device (124) is detachably separated from the drive device (126). [33] Method according to any one of claims 29 to 32, characterized by , that the ejection device (124) on the transport device (108) has a distance to the pharmaceutical production material (102) in the transport direction (112) or is in contact with the pharmaceutical production material (102) by means of the system element (194), wherein the pharmaceutical production material (102) is ejected from the pharmaceutical processing device (100) by means of the ejection device (124) during or only after the pharmaceutical production material (102) has left the transport device (108). [34] Method according to any one of claims 29 to 33, characterized by, that after the pharmaceutical production material (102) has been ejected, the transport device (108) is driven in a return direction opposite to the transport direction (112) to return the ejection device (124) to the drive device (126), by means of which the ejection device (124) is additionally driven and moved back into the receiving and / or guiding device (138). [35] Method according to claim 34, characterized by , that the retraction of the extension device (124) into the receiving and / or guiding device (138) continues until the extension device (124) has completely left the transport device (108) and is received in the receiving and / or guiding device (138), after which the extension device (124) is moved from the extension position to the inactive position.

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