Modular production plant and design method for production plants

Abstract

A modular production plant (100, 400) for processing materials by extrusion molding, comprising a plurality of functional modules (418-440) and a grid-structured spatial support structure (402) for housing the functional modules (418-440), wherein the grid (202, 302) of the spatial support structure (402), particularly its grid dimensions, are determined at least partially in accordance with the spatial dimensions of the functional modules (418-440) and / or in accordance with the relationships and / or arrangement and / or orientation of the functional modules (418-440), and, A method for designing a production plant (100, 400) for processing materials by extrusion molding, comprising: a step (S1) of determining requirements relating to the plant concept of the planned production plant (100, 400), particularly process requirements and / or method requirements; a step (S2) of selecting a plurality of functional modules (418-440) based on the determined requirements; a step (S3) of defining grids (202, 302), particularly a plant grid and / or building grid, taking into account the determined requirements and / or spatial dimensions of the selected functional modules (418-440), and / or the relationships and / or arrangement and / or alignment of the selected functional modules (418-440); and a step (S4) of arranging and / or aligning the selected functional modules (418-440) in the defined grids (202, 302).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to modular production plants, particularly production plants for processing materials by extrusion molding. The present invention also relates to a method for designing a production plant, particularly a production plant for processing materials by extrusion molding.

Background Art

[0002] The structure and layout of a production plant and its plant buildings must take into account the special framework conditions and requirements of each production plant. The production plant must also be adapted to the respective needs of the operator and, if necessary, to its specifications. In particular, a production system for processing materials by extrusion molding is usually an individually configured and customized system that requires a number of different transactions and plant components, such as an extruder unit, conveyor technology, dosing and metering technology, etc. For each project, it is necessary to plan a new plant, the associated process building, and its supply and connection. Furthermore, in such large-scale plants, work planning, production planning, process planning, operating costs, and logistics often play important roles. To realize such a production plant, usually, many specialized companies have to be involved and cooperate intensively and over time and coordinate. Various companies have to provide relevant data and information.

[0003] In particular, it has been shown that it is impossible to optimally realize, adapt, and / or align production systems to each production process because the placement of individual system components or functional modules is not considered, or is no longer possible due to already planned or completed spatial support structures. For example, the distances between individual system components or functional modules may be too large or too small, failing to meet optimal process requirements. In conventionally planned and designed production systems, it is impossible to customize and optimize system components and associated system peripherals to suit each process requirement. In particular, the spatial structure of production plants is created without considering plant-specific processes or processes optimized for those processes. Plant components and functional modules installed later often have to be adapted in a very time-consuming and costly manner, and their position in the spatial support structure may also have to be changed. As a result, various functional modules cannot be optimally harmonized with one another. Finally, there is an increasing demand for space-saving, ecological, and economical construction methods, which cannot be achieved with conventional production processes or known designs for such processes.

[0004] For example, DE 10 2009 052748 B4 discloses a containerized compound system comprising a frame-like support frame enclosing at least one process space and a base frame positioned within the process chamber so as to be securely connected to the support frame for transport.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 10 2008 037011 A1 discloses an extrusion plant comprising an extruder and a screen changer, the extrusion plant having a space support structure designed to accommodate the extruder and the screen changer.

[0006] The present invention is based on the problem of structurally and / or functionally improving the production plant described at the beginning. Furthermore, the present invention is based on the problem of structurally and / or functionally improving the method for designing a production plant described at the beginning.

[0007] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a production system or a method for designing a production system that can reduce or eliminate problems identified in relation to the prior art. For example, an object is to enable optimal positioning of components or functional modules relative to each other, and optimal realization or adaptation and / or adjustment for each production process. Furthermore, an object is to reduce plant costs, planning work and / or planning time, in particular investment costs as well as the operating costs of the production plant. [Overview of the project]

[0008] This problem is solved by a modular production plant having the features of claim 1 or 26. Furthermore, this problem is solved by a method for designing a production plant having the features of claim 18. Advantageous embodiments and / or further embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims, specification and / or accompanying drawings. In particular, an independent claim of one category of claims may be further developed and / or combined in a similar manner to a dependent claim of another category of claims. Similarly, the features of the apparatus and methods described below can be combined and / or further developed.

[0009] The production plant may be a modular production plant. The production plant may be used to process materials by extrusion, and / or may be designed and / or configured to do so. The production plant may be an extrusion plant and / or compounding plant, or may include them, or may be designed and / or configured to do so. The production plant may be a plant for processing bulk materials, such as a bulk material plant (Schuettgutanlage), such as conveying and / or dispensing, and may include them, or may be designed and / or configured to do so. The production plant may be a food extrusion plant (Lebensmittelextrusionanlage), or may include them, or may be designed and / or configured to do so. The material to be processed may be, for example, an organic bulk material and / or an inorganic bulk material. The bulk material may be a fine-grained bulk material, such as a powder. The material to be processed may be a plastic, or may include a plastic. Alternatively, the material to be processed may be an organic material, such as food or food products or animal feed, or may include them. The material to be processed may also be an organic bulk material and / or a cellulose material. The material to be processed may be a bioplastic, for example, a bioplastic obtained from a melt, or may include such bioplastics. Furthermore, the material to be processed may be a compound material, for example, a wood compound and / or a fiber compound, or may include such compound materials. A wood compound may include wood fibers. A compound material may include a plastic material and an organic material and / or a mineral material.

[0010] For example, the material to be processed may be a material to be recycled, such as a plastic material. The plastic material may be a recycled material or a recycled bulk material. For example, the plastic may be a polyolefin, particularly polypropylene (PP) and / or polyethylene (PE), or may contain these. The polyethylene may be low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The polyolefin may be a low-melting-point polyolefin, particularly ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) or cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE). The plastic may also be polyvinyl chloride (PVC), such as PVC from emulsion polymerization (E-PVC), suspension polymerization (S-PVC), and / or bulk polymerization (M-PVC), or may contain these. The plastic may also be a PVC dry blend, or may contain a PVC dry blend. Furthermore, the plastic may also be an engineering plastic such as polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0011] A production plant may include at least one functional module. A production system may include multiple functional modules. Functional modules may have and / or be defined spatial dimensions. The spatial dimensions of a functional module may include length, width, and / or height.

[0012] A production plant may include a spatial support structure. The spatial support structure may be designed and / or configured to be part of a building, such as a hall or production hall, and / or to be constructed and / or integrated within a building. The spatial support structure may serve to accommodate functional modules, and in particular, may be designed and / or positioned or configured to do so. The spatial support structure may be a steel support structure and / or a concrete support structure and / or a timber support structure, or comprised of these. The spatial support structure may have vertical and / or horizontal carriers or supporting elements or columns. The spatial support structure and / or its carriers or columns may be manufactured from steel. Additionally or alternatively, the spatial support structure and / or its carriers or columns may be manufactured from concrete and / or reinforced concrete and / or timber. It may, for example, be exclusively a steel structure, a concrete structure, or a composite structure.

[0013] The spatial support structure can be a grid structure, and in particular can be designed and / or configured in this manner. The spatial structure may have and / or define a grid. The spatial support structure and / or its grid may have and / or define dimensions or grid dimensions. The dimensions or grid dimensions may have and / or define the height of the grid, the length of the grid, and / or the width of the grid. The grid may be a three-dimensional grid. The grid may be a Cartesian / orthogonal grid. The grid may define and / or have a Cartesian / orthogonal coordinate system. The grid may have three mutually orthogonal directions or directional axes. The grid and / or the dimensions of the grid are defined or can be defined, at least partially, according to the relationships and / or arrangement and / or alignment of the functional modules with respect to and / or between them. The relationships between and / or between functional modules can be understood to mean, for example, functional relationships, line flow relationships (Leitungsflussbeziehung), and / or material flow relationships (Materialflussbeziehung). Functional relationships can be understood as the functional and / or necessary relationships between functional modules, such as force transmission relationships (e.g., drive force transmission relationships) or material transmission relationships. Alternatively, functional relationships can be understood as the functional relationships and / or effective arrangement and / or alignment of functional modules relative to each other. Line flow relationships can be understood as the flow of auxiliary materials and / or working materials / fluids, such as conveying air, flushing gas, water, and cleaning agents. Line flow relationships can also be understood as the routing of lines or wiring (Leitungen), such as supply lines and / or cable routes. Material flow relationships can be understood as the flow of materials being processed, such as supplied main materials and / or additives. Relationships can also be understood as logistics chains. Grids and / or grid dimensions can be determined and implemented according to the function of the functional modules, line flow, material flow, and / or logistics chains.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, grids and / or grid dimensions may be defined or made at least partially according to the functional modules and / or functional modules located within the spatial structure, in particular according to the requirements of the plant concept of a production plant. Requirements may, for example, be process requirements and / or procedure requirements of a production plant. Requirements may include and / or be defined the production volume and / or production capacity of the production plant. Requirements may include and / or be defined occupational safety requirements (Anforderungen an die Arbeitssicherheit). Additionally or alternatively, grids and / or grid dimensions may be defined or made at least partially according to the spatial dimensions of the functional modules. Grid dimensions and / or grid dimensions may substantially correspond, at least in sections, to the spatial dimensions of the functional modules.

[0015] Grid dimensions / measurements (Abmessungen / Masse) and / or grid dimensions and / or spatial dimensions / measurements of functional modules are designed or can be designed at least partially as standardized dimensions / measurements or standardized grid dimensions. Standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions are defined or can be defined based on the size of functional elements present in each functional module, such as process parts, gearboxes, and motors, and / or based on the requirements of the production plant, and / or in accordance with the requirements of the production plant. Standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions are determined or can be determined based on building dimensions specified by standards or guidelines. Additionally or alternatively, standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions are defined or can be defined based on the standardized sizes of assemblies and / or functional modules. Standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions can be standardized container dimensions. At least one or all functional modules have and / or can have standardized dimensions such as height, length, and / or width. Standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions may have and / or be defined as standardized length, width and / or height. For example, a standardized height may be about 6.0 to 10.0 m, preferably about 8.0 m, or about 3.0 to 5.0 m, preferably about 3.5 m. A standardized length may be, for example, about 6.0 to 12.0 m, preferably about 8.0 m or about 10.0 m. Lengths such as standardized length may be the same in the core area and the sub-area. That is, the same length may be provided or can be provided in the core area and the sub-area. For example, a standardized width may be about 4.0 to 12.0 m, preferably about 10 m (e.g., core area) or about 6.0 m (e.g., sub-area). Widths such as standardized width may differ in the core area and the sub-area. That is, different widths may be provided or can be provided in the core area and the sub-area.

[0016] A grid can have multiple grid units. A grid unit can be a container unit or be defined as such. A grid unit can be square, rectangular, cubic, or rectangular and / or container-shaped. A grid can have at least partially identical grid units. Grid units can be substantially all the same. Each grid unit can have a grid length, grid width, and grid height. The grid length, grid width, and / or grid height of at least one grid unit can substantially correspond to the spatial dimensions of a functional module placed within the grid unit. The grid length, grid width, and / or grid height of at least one grid unit can substantially correspond to the spatial dimensions of multiple, e.g., a majority, of the functional modules placed within it. The grid lengths, grid widths, and / or grid heights of multiple, e.g., a majority, grid units can each substantially correspond to the spatial dimensions of a functional module placed within their respective grid units. The grid length and / or grid width can be fixed or made fixed depending on the functional module. The grid height can be fixed or made fixed depending on the structure. A grid unit can have support structures, such as a spatial support structure. Furthermore, not all grid units have a support structure. In other words, it is not necessary for all grid units to have a support structure.

[0017] The grid may comprise a plurality of grid units, each having a grid length, grid width, and grid height, wherein the grid lengths and / or grid widths of grid units arranged vertically to one another in the height direction, for example, the grid lengths and / or grid widths of grid units arranged vertically to one another substantially in the vertical direction, are substantially all the same and / or substantially correspond to the length or width of the functional module arranged to the greatest length or width in this height direction.

[0018] At least one functional module may extend substantially over one, two, or more grid units. For example, at least one functional module may extend substantially over a multiple of the length and / or width and / or height of each grid unit, e.g., about 0.5, 0.8, 1.5, 1.8, or 2.0 times. Additionally or alternatively, the length and / or width of each grid unit may differ at least partially from one grid unit to another. For example, at least one grid unit may extend over one, two, or more other, e.g., adjacent grid units. For example, at least one grid unit may extend substantially over a multiple of the length and / or width and / or height of other, e.g., adjacent grid units, e.g., about 0.5, 0.8, 1.5, 1.8, or 2.0 times.

[0019] A spatial structure and / or its grid may have a first, for example, lowest level having a first minimum height, for example, a minimum grid height. A spatial support structure and / or its grid may have at least one second level located and / or constructed on the first level having a second minimum height, for example, a minimum grid height. A level can also be understood as, for example, a flat area or a tier. The first minimum height of the first level may be greater than the second minimum height of at least one second level. Multiple second levels are provided and / or configured one above the other. For example, two to eight levels of second levels are provided and / or can be provided. Multiple second levels may all have the same second minimum height. Multiple second levels may have at least partially the same second minimum height. That is, multiple second levels may be provided, some having the same second minimum height and others having different second minimum heights. Also, multiple second levels may all have different second minimum heights. The first minimum height of the first level can be about 6.0 to 10.0 m, preferably about 8.0 m. The second minimum height of at least one second level can be about 3.0 to 5.0 m, preferably about 3.5 m.

[0020] Functional modules are selected and / or provided or can be provided according to the requirements and / or purpose of the production plant. Functional modules include, for example, silo modules, additive lift modules, additive distribution modules, additive doping modules, drive train modules, gear modules, process section modules, boosting system modules, granulation modules, and startup system modules. The production plant may include at least one functional module specifically selected from the following: ahrsystemmodul, hot oil module, granulation water system module, pellet drying module, pellet screening module, pellet buffer container module, pellet discharge module, and maintenance module. At least one line module for providing connecting lines between modules and / or at least one connection module for providing functional connections between modules may also be provided. The production plant may also have multiple identical (e.g., multiple process section modules) or at least substantially similar functional modules, and / or may be selected according to the requirements and / or purposes of the production plant.

[0021] At least one silo module may be a feed silo module and / or a powder feed silo module and / or a bulk material storage container module. A silo module may have at least one storage container, such as a bulk material storage container and / or a powder storage container. At least one storage container may be a silo, such as a bulk material silo and / or a powder silo. The silo may be a day silo. A silo module may have multiple storage containers. A silo module may have at least one, for example, two storage containers / silos, such as storage silos. At least one storage container / silo may function and / or be designed as a buffer volume for bulk material. The bulk material may be a fine-grained bulk material, such as a powder, such as a polymer powder. At least one storage container / silo may have a discharge port. At least one storage container / silo and / or its outlet may be connected to at least one additive doping module and / or process section module in such a manner that bulk material can reach or be transported from at least one storage container / silo to at least one additive doping module and / or process section module. At least one silo or at least one storage container may be connected to a process submodule via a downpipe and / or mechanical transport element / transport element. Each storage container / silo may be connected to a process section module via a separate downpipe.

[0022] At least one additive lift module can be designed to transport additives or additives to an additive distribution module. Additives can be transported from a floor-level additive storage area to a production plant, typically in large bags (BBs), or individual containers also called super sacks or FIBCs, small transport containers, or pallets with sacks, using lifts such as forklifts. From there to the additive distribution module can be carried out by the transport of the additive lift module. At least one additive lift module can have at least one transport device. At least one transport device can be located inside or outside the additive lift module. For example, at least one transport device can be located on the exterior wall of the additive lift module and / or building. At least one transport device can be a lifting device such as an elevator, such as a freight elevator, or a crane. Alternatively, at least one conveying device, such as a pneumatic conveying device, can be provided within the additive lift module. At least one conveying device can be designed to transport or deliver additives from outside the building / production plant into the additive distribution module. The pneumatic conveying device can be designed as a suction conveying or a pressurized conveying device. At least one additive lift module can extend across multiple levels, particularly in the height direction.

[0023] At least one additive distribution module may have at least one delivery station, such as an entlerstation, and / or at least one intermediate storage facility. At least one delivery station may be a mobile storage container, also known as a flexible intermediate bulk container (FIBC). Within the additive distribution module, additives can typically be supplied and / or empty as (additive) transport units, such as big bags (BBs) / supersacks / FIBCs. Additives can also be supplied in the form of bagged goods, drums, or transportable intermediate containers, such as premix containers (e.g., in the case of in-house premix manufacturing). At least one additive distribution module may be designed to lift (additive) transport units to at least one entlerstation and / or connect to at least one supply port of the additive module system or additive doping module. Additionally or alternatively, additives can be transported or delivered to the additive supply module from outside the building / production plant via at least one, in particular, pneumatic conveying device. In this case, instead of an unloading station, a container with a built-in filter, such as a total separator, can be provided. That is, the boundary between the additive delivery module and the additive doping module can substantially pass through a container or total separator. The pneumatic transport system can be designed as a suction transport system or a pressure transport system.

[0024] Additives may be additives or aggregates, such as coloring pigments, stabilizers, antiblocking agents, process aids, stearates, titanium dioxide, plasticizers, and / or whitening agents, in particular, to affect the properties of the material being processed. Additives may also be bulk materials. Additives may be, for example, in powder or granular form.

[0025] At least one additive doping module may include at least one additive doping device. At least one additive doping device may be designed to meter or dope and dispense an additive from at least one additive distribution module. At least one additive doping module or at least one additive doping device may include at least one buffer container. The buffer container may have a size appropriate to the process or requirements. At least one additive doping device may have at least one screw, such as a doping screw, and / or at least one downpipe. At least one additive doping device may be connected indirectly or directly to a process section module. At least one additive doping device may supply a specified amount of additive to a material flow according to a predetermined recipe depending on the material flow being processed. At least one additive doping device may supply additives from above to a transport element or transport unit onto the material being processed, for example, via a substantially vertical downpipe. The transport element or transport unit may be a vertical or inclined drop line, and / or a screw conveyor, and / or a mixing screw. The mixture of additives and the material to be processed can be transported, for example, by gravity, via a downpipe to a process section module at the end of the transport element / transport unit.

[0026] At least one drive train module may be a motor module. At least one drive train module may have at least one drive train. At least one drive train may be designed depending on the gear design of the gear module. At least one drive train module may have at least one motor, for example, a drive motor. The bearings of at least one motor may be cooled and / or lubricated via a lubrication system. At least one motor may be connected to the gears of the gear module via a mechanical coupling. The drive unit or motor may be cooled via a central cooling water circuit and / or an integrated heat exchanger and / or a fan.

[0027] At least one gear module may have at least one gear, such as a main gear. At least one gear module may be a main gear module. At least one gear is driven, or may be driven, via at least one drive train module or at least one motor of a drive train module. At least one gear module and / or at least one gear transmits, or may transmit, forces such as driving force and / or rotational force to a process section module and / or its components / process section. At least one gear may be sealed in a soundproof housing, in particular to prevent noise from being emitted to the outside. Also, at least one gear module may have a surface or area for maintenance. This allows for sufficient storage space during maintenance, for example, for large and / or heavy internal components of the gear.

[0028] At least one process section module may have at least one process section. At least one process section module may have at least one storage container for supplying at least one process section. The process section may be designed to draw in the supplied material via a screw, such as a double screw, and melt it by force supplied from a gear module and / or a drive train module. The process section may be heated by different systems, such as heating devices, such as hot oil, steam, or electricity. A distribution battery, particularly located on the left or right side of the process section, can be used to distribute steam or hot oil. The heating device may be connected to a hot oil module and / or by the hot oil module, heat treatment such as heating can be performed. The process section may be or include a screw machine. The screw machine may have at least one feed port for supplying the material and / or additives to be processed. Furthermore, the screw machine may have at least one additional feed port for supplying additional material or additives. For example, at least one additive doping module may be supplied with the material and / or additives to be processed via at least one feed port of the screw machine. At least one process section module and / or at least one screw machine may be equipped with at least one feeder and / or doping device for supplying the material to be processed and / or additives and / or mixtures thereof. At least one screw machine may be equipped with at least one hopper, such as a feed hopper, for supplying the material to be processed and / or additives and / or mixtures thereof. At least one screw machine may be designed to melt and / or plasticize the material supplied thereto. At least one screw machine may be driven by a motor of a drive train module. At least one screw machine may be designed as a multi-screw machine, in particular a twin-screw machine.The screw machine can be an extruder, particularly a multi - screw extruder, such as a two - screw extruder. At least one process section module can be an extruder module. At least one process section module can have one or more process sections. At least one process section can be an extruder. At least one process section module can include at least one side extruder, and / or at least one of its process sections can include at least one side extruder. A side extruder module having at least one side extruder can be provided. A plurality of process sections each having its own drive unit and / or gear module can be connected to each other. For example, two screw machines can be connected to each other such that one screw machine can transfer or supply molten material to a subsequent screw machine. At least one process section module can have a cooling device such as a cooling water battery for cooling the process section. The cooling water can be supplied in a closed circuit as demineralized water, for example, in a SKID unit. At least one screw machine can have a discharge opening, particularly at its downstream end, for example, at the downstream end of the discharge zone. The discharge opening can be designed such that a processed melt, such as a plastic melt, can be discharged through it from the inside of the screw machine. A pressure - boosting system module or a pressure - boosting section of a pressure - boosting system module can be connected to the discharge opening. The melt or mixture processed by the screw machine can be supplied as a melt to the pressure - boosting system module or the pressure - boosting section of the pressure - boosting system module.

[0029] At least one boost system module may have at least one boost section. At least one boost section may be a pump, such as a melting pump. At least one boost section and / or melting pump may be designed to generate pressure or boost and / or pressurize a molten material, such as a plastic molten material. At least one boost section and / or melting pump may be a gear pump and / or a positive displacement pump. At least one boost system module may be a melting pump module. At least one boost system module may have at least one temperature control unit for the boost section and / or melting pump, in particular for its bearings and / or shaft. At least one temperature control unit may be connected to a hot oil module and / or the hot oil module may perform temperature control, such as heating. At least one boost system module may have at least one valve, such as a start valve and / or a throttle valve. At least one boost system module may have at least one screen replacement device and / or a hole plate. The discharge port of the process section or process section module may open to an activation valve at the downstream end in the conveying direction. The booster section may be located downstream of the activation valve in the conveying direction. The booster section may open to a screen changer. The material molten in the process section may be transferred to the activation system module via the activation valve and / or throttle valve at the start of production. By switching the activation valve and / or throttle valve to the production direction, the material may be further supplied to the screen changer, particularly after a predetermined product quality has been achieved. The screen changer may be designed to filter the material. A perforated plate may be located downstream of the screen changer. After the perforated plate, the material extruded through the perforated plate is transferred to the granulation module.

[0030] At least one granulation module can be a submerged granulation module. At least one granulation module can have at least one movable carriage. At least one movable carriage can be displaceably arranged on a rail. The rail can be embedded in the bottom of the granulation module and / or the building in which the production plant is located. The rail can be extended via a rail extension. At least one granulation module can have at least one granulation device. The granulation device can be arranged on a trolley. The granulation device can be docked onto and / or undocked from a pressure boosting system module or its perforated plate by the trolley. When docked, it can be in the production mode. When undocked, it can be in the maintenance mode. The granulation device can be arranged downstream of and / or connected to the perforated plate of the pressure boosting system module. Alternatively, the granulation device can have a perforated plate. The granulation device can be designed and / or intended to granulate strands of materials such as strands of plastic material, and the granulation device can have a granulation bonnet. The granulation device can have a water supply pipe, particularly a water supply pipe that opens into the granulation bonnet. The granulation device can have a water - pellet discharge line, particularly one that opens outside the granulation bonnet. The granulation device or its granulation bonnet can be connected to a granulation water system module, particularly by a water inflow line and / or a water - pellet discharge line. For the discharge process, for example during undocking, a drainage line, such as a channel, can be provided to discharge the granulation water from the granulation bonnet.

[0031] At least one start system module may be a collection module. At least one start system module may have at least one container, such as a collection container or collection tank. At least one start system module may have at least one cutting device. At least one start system module may have at least one discharge line. The discharge line may be designed as a channel. The discharge line may be connected to the start and / or throttle valve of the granulation module, or to at least one cutting device. The discharge line may be designed and / or configured to discharge the material shredded by the cutting device, in particular, into at least one container. The container may function and / or be designed as a storage container for the rinse water required for the discharge line.

[0032] At least one hot oil module may be a hot oil condensation module. At least one hot oil module may have at least one hot oil condensation section (Heissoelaggregat). At least one hot oil condensation section may be designed to temperature-control and / or heat the heating devices and / or temperature control devices of other modules, such as process section modules and / or boost system modules. For example, a hot oil unit may be provided for the process section module, and another hot oil condensation section may be provided for the boost system module.

[0033] At least one granulation water system module may be designed and / or installed to supply and / or discharge granulation water and / or to transport pelletized material in the pelletizing module, in particular to the pellet drying module and / or pellet sorting module. At least one granulation water system module may be designed and / or installed to generate a circuit, such as a water circuit, for material transport, in particular between at least one granulation module and the pellet drying module and / or pellet sorting module. At least one granulation water system module may have at least one granulation water tank, at least one granulation water pump station, at least one granulation water temperature control station, at least one granulation water bypass and / or at least one flow monitoring system. The granulation water tank may have at least one filter unit. Additionally or alternatively, at least one granulation water system module may consist of and / or be connected to a granulation water tank module, a pelletizing water sump module and / or a cooling water module. At least one granulation water system module can be designed and / or configured to receive material pelletized in a pelletizing module by pelletizing water and transport it to a pellet drying module and / or pellet sorting module.

[0034] At least one pellet drying module may have at least one pellet dryer. A granulation dryer may be designed or made to dry the material granulated by the granulation module. At least one pellet drying module may have at least one aggregate separator. Water from the pellet dryer may be returned to the circuit of the pelletization water system module. At least one pellet drying module may be connected to at least one pellet sorting module.

[0035] At least one pellet screening module may be a pellet classification module. At least one pellet screening module may be located downstream of at least one pellet drying module. At least one pellet screening module may be designed to sort or classify a pellet stream dried by the pellet drying module or its pellet dryer, for example, according to a specific particle size. The pellet material or material product / pellets separated in the pellet screening module can be transferred or transported to a pellet buffer container module, particularly by pipes such as channels or downpipes. Material sorted or separated as defective pellets, so-called oversized and undersized pellets, can be fed into a collection container by downpipes.

[0036] At least one pellet drying module and at least one pellet screening module can be designed as a common pellet drying and screening module. This means that at least one common pellet drying and screening module is provided or can be provided. At least one pellet drying and screening module can have the features and / or elements of at least one pellet drying module and at least one pellet screening module.

[0037] At least one pellet buffer container module may be a pellet collection module (Granulat-Auffangmodul). At least one pellet buffer container module may be equipped with at least one mass flow measuring device for recording the mass and / or volume flow of pellets (good pellets (Gutgranulat)) supplied by a pellet screening module or a pellet drying and screening module. The mass flow measuring device may be a mass flow measuring device. Material pellets from the screening or sorting device of the pellet screening module or the pellet drying and screening module can flow substantially continuously through the mass flow measuring device. The material processing rate, in particular the current material processing rate, can be determined by the mass flow measuring device or by the recorded mass and / or volume flow rate of the pellets. At least one pellet buffer container module may have at least one pellet buffer container for pellet material. The pellet buffer container may be connected to the mass flow measuring device in such a manner that pellets can fall from the mass flow measuring device into the pellet buffer container. At least one pellet buffer container module may have at least one dispensing device, such as a rotary valve. At least one doping device can be designed to transfer pellet material from a pellet buffer container to a pellet discharge module or to supply it to a conveyor, particularly a pneumatic conveyor. The pellet buffer container can be used and / or designed for intermediate storage of pellets.

[0038] At least one granular material discharge module may have at least one conveyor, for example, a pneumatic conveyor. At least one conveyor may be connected to at least one dispensing device of the pellet buffer container module. At least one conveyor may be designed and / or configured to transport pellet material fed by at least one dispensing device of the pellet buffer container module from the production plant and / or building to at least one mixing silo and / or bagging silo.

[0039] At least one pellet buffer container module and at least one pellet discharge module can be designed as a common pellet buffer discharge module. At least one pellet buffer discharge module can be provided in this manner. At least one pellet buffer discharge module has the features and / or elements of at least one pellet buffer discharge container module and at least one pellet discharge module.

[0040] At least one maintenance module may be, for example, a placeholder module for the necessary empty space and / or access for the maintenance of each module and / or device. At least one maintenance module may be an oil maintenance module, a motor maintenance module and / or a gear maintenance module. At least one maintenance module may be designed and / or installed to provide the necessary space / area and / or lifting equipment, in particular for maintenance. At least one maintenance module may be designed and / or configured to be accessible from the outside, for example, to provide tools and / or spare parts.

[0041] At least one core area is provided or can be provided, or a production plant and / or its spatial structure may have and / or be defined at least one core area. In at least one core area, the spatial structure is reinforced or may be reinforced. Reinforcement can be understood to mean corresponding stiffness such as bending stiffness and / or torsional stiffness, and / or strength and / or durability. Additionally or alternatively, at least one core area may have a foundation, in particular a reinforced foundation. At least one sub-area may be provided or can be provided, or a production plant and / or its spatial structure may have and / or be defined at least one sub-area. At least one sub-area may be provided and / or positioned adjacent to, for example, directly to, at least one core area. In at least one sub-area, the spatial support structure is reinforced or may be reinforced less than the spatial support structure in at least one core area. In at least one core region, the spatial support structure may be or can be designed to have greater rigidity, e.g., greater rigidity in bending and / or torsion, and / or greater strength and / or greater load-bearing capacity, compared to the spatial support structure in at least one sub-region. Additionally or alternatively, at least one sub-region may have a less reinforced foundation than the foundation in at least one core region. In at least one core region, the foundation may have greater strength and / or greater load-bearing capacity, or be designed to have greater load-bearing capacity, compared to the foundation in at least one sub-region. For example, the foundation in at least one core region may have or include a thicker base plate and / or have more steel inserts / reinforcements compared to the foundation in at least one sub-region. At least one outer region may be provided or can be provided, or the production plant and / or its spatial support structure may have and / or be defined as having at least one outer region.At least one outer region may be provided and / or arranged adjacent to, for example, at least one core region and / or at least one negative k region, for example, directly. No spatial support structure may be provided or arranged in at least one outer area.

[0042] At least one core area may contain, and may contain, at least one functional module selected from the following groups: silo module, additive distribution module, additive doping module, drive train module, gear module, process section module, booster system module, granulation module, pellet drying module, pellet screening module, and pellet discharge module. Functional modules may be arranged in at least one core area according to their function and / or relationships with one another. For example, the drive train module, gear module, and process section module may be arranged in a line and / or on a plane (e.g., first level and / or lowest level), particularly directly in front of and behind each other. In at least one core area, heavy load functional modules and / or force introduction functional modules and / or explosion hazard functional modules may be arranged and / or grouped, for example, substantially adjacent to each other or adjacent to each other in the lateral direction and / or substantially above and below each other in the height direction.

[0043] At least one sub-region may contain, and may contain, at least one functional module selected from the following groups: additive lift module, additive distribution module, additive doping module, process section module, booster system module, granulation module, hot oil module, granulation water system module, pellet drying module, pellet screening module, pellet buffer container module, pellet discharge module, and maintenance module. Functional modules may be arranged in at least one sub-region according to their function and / or relationships with each other. For example, an additive lift module may be arranged adjacent to an additive distribution module, and / or a pellet drying module may be arranged adjacent to a pellet screening module.

[0044] At least one outer region may contain, or may contain, at least one functional module selected from the following groups: additive delivery module, startup system module, hot oil joule, granulation water system module. Functional modules may be located in, or may contain, at least one outer region according to their function and / or relationships to one another.

[0045] Furthermore, each functional module can be arranged across domains, for example, from the core domain to the subdomain, or from the subdomain to the outer domain, depending on its function and / or its relationships with each other. In particular, functional modules near the boundary between two domains (e.g., the core domain and the subdomain, or the subdomain and the outer domain) can be arranged according to their relationships with each other.

[0046] The first level may contain, or may contain, one or more functional modules selected from the following groups: additive lift module, drive train module, gear module, process section module, booster system module, granulation module, start-up system module, hot oil module, granulation water system module, and maintenance module. Functional modules may be arranged in the first level according to their function and / or relationships with each other. For example, the drive train module, gear module, and process section module may be arranged in the first level, for example, the lowest level, particularly directly before and after each other.

[0047] The method can, for example, design a modular production plant and / or perform that role. The production plant may be designed and / or installed to process materials by extrusion. The production plant may be designed or may be designed as described above and / or described below. The method may be a method for grounding and / or determining a spatial support structure, such as a support structure for a production plant in a grid structure.

[0048] This method may include the following steps: Define the requirements for the plant concept of the planned production plant. The requirements may be, for example, process requirements and / or procedural requirements for the production plant. The requirements may include and / or define the output volume and / or production capacity of the production plant. The requirements may include and / or define occupational safety requirements.

[0049] This method may include the following steps: selecting multiple functional modules based on specified requirements. Functional modules are or may be formed as described above and / or below. Functional modules may be a defined group of functional modules or selected from a defined group. These may be groups of functional modules described above and / or below. Functional modules may be selected according to the requirements and / or purpose of the production plant.

[0050] This method may include the following steps: defining a grid, taking into account the specified requirements and / or spatial dimensions of selected functional modules, and / or the relationships between and / or with respect to selected functional modules, and / or their arrangement and / or alignment. The grid may be, for example, a plant grid and / or a building grid. The grid may be a grid of spatial structures and / or define spatial structures. The grid may be formed and / or defined as described above and / or below. The grid and / or the dimensions of the grid may be determined / defined at least partially according to the relationships between and / or with respect to functional modules, and / or their arrangement and / or alignment. The relationships between and / or with respect to functional modules may allow for the understanding and / or specification / definition of, for example, functional relationships, line flow relationships and / or material flow relationships. Functional relationships may be understood and / or defined as functional relationships and / or necessary relationships between functional modules, such as force transmission relationships such as drive force transmission relationships, or material transmission relationships, etc. Functional relationships can also be understood as the interrelationships and / or effective arrangement and / or alignment of functional modules according to their functions. Line flow relationships can be understood and / or specified / defined as the flow of auxiliary materials and / or working materials / working substances such as conveying air, rinsing gas, water, and cleaning agents. Line flow relationships can also be understood and / or defined as the routing of lines such as supply lines and / or cable routes. Material flow relationships can be understood and / or specified / defined as the flow of materials being processed, e.g., supplied main materials and / or any additives / additives. Relationships can also be understood and / or specified / defined as logistics chains. Grids and / or grid dimensions can be determined and / or defined according to the functions of the functional modules, line flows, material flows and / or logistics chains. The arrangement and / or alignment of selected functional modules can be understood and / or specified / defined as meaning that the selected functional modules can and / or should be arranged on the grid accordingly.

[0051] This method may include the following steps: arranging and / or aligning selected functional modules on a defined grid. Functional modules are or may be arranged and / or aligned with one another according to their function and / or effectiveness.

[0052] A grid can be defined, and / or functional modules can be placed and / or aligned on the defined grid so that functions such as the overall function of a production plant, and / or the relationships between each functional module and / or functional modules are realized.

[0053] Defining a grid involves determining a grid unit having a grid length, grid width, and grid height. Grid length and / or grid width can be defined according to the functional module. Grid height can be determined according to the structure. Structural engineering can be understood as referring to building-related building specifications, as well as legal building specifications. Structural engineering can also refer to the design and / or structural analysis of buildings. Furthermore, structural engineering can refer to the corresponding building codes. Grid dimensions, or grid length, grid width, and / or grid height, can be defined as described above and / or below.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, the definition of a grid may include determining several levels having a minimum height, for example, the minimum grid height. The minimum height of a level may be determined and / or defined based on the spatial dimensions, for example, the height, of at least one functional module provided on each level for structural reasons, and / or based on specified requirements.

[0055] Additionally or alternatively, defining a grid may include determining a first minimum height, e.g., a minimum grid height, and a second minimum height, e.g., at least one second level having a minimum grid height. The first minimum height of the first level may be greater than, or set to be greater than, the second minimum height of at least one second level. Multiple second levels arranged and / or constructed vertically may be determined / defined and / or fixed. Multiple second levels may all have the same second minimum height. Multiple second levels may have at least partially the same second minimum height. That is, multiple second levels may be provided or provided, some having the same second minimum height and others having different second minimum heights. Alternatively, multiple second levels may all have different second minimum heights.

[0056] Additionally or alternatively, the definition of a grid may include determinations of multiple height levels. The height interval from one height level to the next may be determined and / or defined such that functional modules arranged substantially in the height direction, for example, functional modules arranged sequentially, are effectively connected to each other or can be connected. The height intervals of at least three consecutive height levels may be identical or defined identically.

[0057] The grid can be determined or defined in the vertical direction, for example from bottom to top or top to bottom, and / or in the horizontal direction, for example from left to right or right to left. The grid can be determined or defined based on at least one basic functional module. At least one basic functional module can be, or can be defined as, a drive train module, a gear module, a process section module, a booster system module or a granulation module, and / or a heavy load function module (Schwerlastfunktionsmodul) and / or a force introduction function module (krafteinleitendes Funktionsmodul). At least one basic functional module can be, or can be defined as, a lowest function module (unterstes Funktionsmodul). At least one basic functional module can be placed at a first, for example, lowest level. For example, at least one basic functional module can be, or can be defined as, a function module constituting an extruder, such as an extruder module, a function module constituting a gear, such as a gear module, or a function module constituting a melting pump, such as a melting pump module or a booster system module.

[0058] The grid can be determined or defined in at least cross-section, longitudinally and / or transversely, based on the spatial dimensions of at least one basic functional module. Additionally or alternatively, the spatial dimensions of adjacent and / or subsequent functional modules starting from at least one basic functional module can be determined or defined in at least cross-section, based on the spatial dimensions of at least one basic functional module, in the height and / or transverse directions. It can be determined whether the spatial dimensions of each functional module adjacent to and / or subsequent to at least one basic functional module in the height and / or transverse directions are smaller than the spatial dimensions of at least one basic functional module assigned to each of them in the height and / or transverse directions. If the spatial dimensions of each functional module are smaller, the spatial dimensions of the functional module, or the spatial dimensions of the grid unit associated with this functional module, can be enlarged accordingly, for example, to fit the spatial dimensions of each of the at least one basic functional modules. This can include the smallest possible spatial dimensions.

[0059] It can be determined whether the spatial dimensions of each functional module adjacent to and / or following at least one basic functional module in the height and / or lateral directions are greater than the spatial dimensions of at least one basic functional module assigned to each of those height and / or lateral directions. If the spatial dimensions of each functional module are greater, the spatial dimensions of at least one basic functional module or the grid unit associated with this basic functional module can be enlarged accordingly, for example, to fit the spatial dimensions of the largest functional module present in the height or lateral direction, or to the spatial dimensions of functional modules present in the height or lateral direction that have the largest spatial dimensions assigned to each of those height and / or lateral directions. These can be the smallest possible spatial dimensions. The largest functional module can be understood as the functional module having the largest spatial dimensions in each of the height and / or lateral directions, such as the largest length, width, and / or height.

[0060] Multiple functional modules of a production plant can be defined and / or designed based on determined requirements. The spatial dimensions of each functional module are determined or can be determined based on the content of each functional module and / or the process requirements of each functional module. The spatial dimensions of each functional module are determined or can be determined based on the design / formation of the functional elements of each functional module and / or, for example, the relationships and / or arrangement of the functional elements of each functional module with respect to each other. The content and / or functional elements of a functional module are dimensionally determined or can be determined based on specified requirements and / or the process requirements of each functional module. The content and / or functional elements of a functional module may include platforms such as operator platforms, lines such as pipelines, pipeline runs or pipeline guides, walkways, access areas, passage areas, maintenance areas, work areas, functional areas, evacuation areas / passages and / or rescue areas. Additionally or alternatively, the content and / or functional elements of a functional module may include air conditioning systems, ventilation systems, vents, fire protection systems such as sprinkler systems and / or work safety devices such as emergency showers.

[0061] For each functional module, for example, for each functional module process, the smallest possible spatial dimensions can be determined. Additionally or alternatively, relationships between and / or within functional modules can be determined, for example, as functional relationships, line flow relationships, material flow relationships, and / or logistics chain relationships. Each functional module can be defined and / or formed based on the determined smallest possible spatial dimensions and / or relationships.

[0062] Functional modules and / or grid units may have standardized dimensions, for example, based on the contents of the functional module and / or the elements of the functional module. Standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions are determined or may be determined based on sizes specified by standards or guidelines. Additionally or alternatively, standardized dimensions or standardized grid dimensions may or may be defined based on the standardized sizes of assemblies (Gewerken) and / or functional modules. Standardized dimensions / grid dimensions of functional modules and / or grid units can be checked and made to conform to specified requirements. Standardized dimensions / grid dimensions of functional modules and / or grid units may or may be defined as described above and / or below.

[0063] Heavy-duty function modules, such as heavy-duty function modules and / or force introduction function modules and / or explosion hazard function modules, can be substantially directly adjacent or adjacent laterally and / or substantially vertically and / or grouped together in the height direction, insofar as they are process-dependent and / or function-dependent. Heavy-duty function modules and / or force introduction function modules may be, for example, silo modules, drive train modules, gear modules, process section modules, booster system modules, granulation modules, granulation water system modules and / or pellet buffer container modules. Force introduction function modules can be designed to generate and / or introduce forces, such as rotational force, driving force, torque force, or moments, such as torque and driving moment, to achieve specific functions, such as rotating a motor, driving a processing screw such as an extruder screw, or driving the cutting head of a granulator. A force introduction function module can be designed to generate and / or introduce force, such as rotational force, driving force, or torque, or torque, such as torque or driving torque, to achieve specific functions, such as the rotation of a motor, the driving of a processing screw such as an extruder screw, or the driving of a granulator cutting head. The force and / or torque can be relatively large. The force introduction function module can be designed to be supported on a foundation and / or support structure. The force introduction function module can be designed to introduce force and / or torque into a foundation and / or spatial support structure, particularly for support, such as reaction force or reaction instantaneous force.

[0064] Support points for the functional module, such as bearing points, support points and / or mounting points, are provided or can be provided. The support points for the functional module, such as bearing points, support points and / or mounting points, can be at least partially arranged and / or aligned on a defined grid.

[0065] Using a defined grid, frame-like support structures, such as spatial support structures and / or building support structures, can be planned and / or defined. The support structures may be production plant support structures or spatial support structures. Support structures or spatial support structures may be designed as described above and / or below.

[0066] At least one core region can be defined and / or specified. In at least one core region, the support structure is reinforced or can be reinforced, and / or at least one core region has a reinforced foundation, can be defined and / or specified. Reinforcement design can be understood to mean corresponding stiffness, such as bending stiffness and / or torsional stiffness, and / or strength and / or durability. For example, at least one secondary region adjacent to at least one core region can be defined and / or specified. In at least one sub-region, the support structure is weaker or can be reinforced compared to the support structure in at least one core region, and / or at least one sub-region has a weaker reinforced foundation compared to the foundation in at least one core region, can be defined and / or specified. In at least one core region, the spatial support structure is stiffer, for example, stiffer in bending and / or torsion, and / or stronger and / or more durable, compared to the spatial support structure in at least one sub-region. In at least one core region, the foundation can be defined as being designed to have greater strength and / or greater durability compared to the foundation in at least one sub-region. Outer regions, for example, adjacent to at least one core region and / or at least one sub-region, can be defined as being absent from and / or not having a supporting structure in at least one outer region.

[0067] Functional modules can be selected, for example, from a collection and / or group of previously defined functional modules stored in a data bank.

[0068] Functional modules can be selected from the following groups: silo module, additive lift module, additive distribution module, additive doping module, drive train module, gear module, process section module, booster system module, granulation module, start-up system module, hot oil module, granulation water system module, pellet drying module, pellet screening module, pellet buffer container module, pellet discharge module, and maintenance module. Multiple identical or substantially similar functional modules and / or different functional modules can be selected.

[0069] The grid and / or grid height, e.g., the maximum or minimum grid height, and / or grid width, e.g., the maximum or minimum grid width, and / or grid length, e.g., the maximum or minimum grid length can be defined and / or determined based on the output of a production line, e.g., an extrusion line, e.g., annual production volume, and / or capacity, e.g., annual production capacity, and / or based on the time-based output of an extruder in a process part of a production line, e.g., an extrusion line, e.g., processing capacity rate.

[0070] At least one ratio coefficient can be specified or determined. The ratio coefficient can define and / or specify the ratio between a height such as the maximum or minimum height of the grid, a width such as the maximum or minimum width, or a length such as the maximum or minimum length, and a capacity such as the output of a production plant, e.g., an extrusion plant, and / or its process section, e.g., the annual output or throughput of an extruder, or the annual production capacity. The grid or its height, width, and / or length can be determined and / or defined based on at least one ratio factor.

[0071] Production plants, such as modular production plants, can be designed and / or implemented according to the methods described above and / or below.

[0072] At least one functional module or at least a portion of a functional module may be designed as a delivery module for transport to the production plant's site of use, and / or as an assembly module for setting up the functional module or portion of a functional module so that it can be immediately operational at the production plant's site of use.

[0073] The present invention enables optimal positioning of components or functional modules relative to each other, and / or optimal realization, adaptation, and / or integration with each production process. Furthermore, it can reduce plant costs, planning costs, and / or planning time, particularly investment and operating costs for production plants. By achieving optimized logistics for material flow and line flow, it not only reduces one-time acquisition and investment costs, but is also rational from an energy and / or ecological standpoint. For example, continuous operating costs can be saved by shortening the distance of pneumatic transport, which is a cause of pressure loss, and by reducing line transitions. Space-saving designs, particularly in terms of surface area and / or space, can be achieved. Space consumption and energy consumption can be significantly reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0074] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the schematic and illustrative figures: [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a modular production plant. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a modified example of the core area of ​​a modular production plant. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a modified example of a sub-region of a modular production plant. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a modular production plant with a grid-structured spatial support system. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the design process of a production plant. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0075] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a modular production plant 100 for processing materials by extrusion molding. The production plant consists of multiple functional modules and a grid-designed spatial support structure (neither of which is shown in Figure 1) for housing the functional modules, which will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 2-4. For example, the spatial support structure can be designed as a steel support structure having multiple vertically and horizontally arranged carriers (Traegers) and strebens (Strebens), the connection points or positions thereof being defined by the grid. Additionally or alternatively, the spatial support structure can also be designed as a concrete structure and / or a wooden structure. The spatial support structure and / or its carriers or strebens may be made of, for example, steel and / or concrete and / or reinforced concrete and / or wood. The grid of the spatial support structure, in particular its grid dimensions, is defined at least in part according to the spatial dimensions of the functional modules and / or according to the relationships and / or arrangement and / or alignment of the functional modules.

[0076] The functional modules of the production plant 100 include at least one functional module from a group that includes a silo module, an additive lift module, an additive distribution module, an additive doping module, a drive train module, a gear module, a process section module, a boost system module, a granulation module, a start-up system module, a hot oil module, a granulation water system module, a pellet drying module, a pellet screening module, a pellet buffer container module, a pellet discharge module, and a maintenance module.

[0077] Furthermore, the production plant (Produktionsanlage) 100 shown in Figure 1 has multiple regions or is subdivided into multiple regions. In this embodiment, the production plant 100 has a core region (Kernbereich) 102, a secondary region (Nebenbereich) 104, and two outer regions (Aussenbereiche) 106.

[0078] In the core region 102, the spatial support structure of the production plant 100 is reinforced. For example, the carriers and columns of the steel support structure in the core region 102 are reinforced compared to the carriers and columns of other regions of the steel support structure. In the core region 102, the carriers and columns of the steel support structure can have a larger and / or more durable cross-section than, for example, the carriers and columns of other regions of the steel support structure, and therefore can withstand greater loads. For example, the beams and columns of the steel support structure in the core region 102 can be more rigid than the beams and columns of other regions of the steel support structure, and can have, for example, greater resistance to bending and / or torsion, and / or higher strength and / or higher durability. Furthermore, the core region 102 has a reinforced foundation at its base. The core area 102 may contain at least one functional module selected from a group including a silo module, an additive distribution module, an additive doping module, a drive train module, a gear module, a process section module, a boost system module, a granulation module, a pellet drying module, a pellet screening module, a pellet buffer container module, and a pellet discharge module.

[0079] The sub-region 104 is directly adjacent to the core region 102. In this embodiment shown in Figure 1, the sub-region 104 surrounds the core region, and a portion of the core region 102 protrudes upward or in the height direction. In the sub-region 104, the spatial support structure is less reinforced than the spatial support structure in the core region 102. The carriers and columns of the steel support structure in the sub-region 104 may have a smaller and / or less durable cross-section than, for example, the carriers and columns of the steel support structure in the core region 102. In the core region 102, the carriers and columns of the steel support structure may be more rigid, for example, more resistant to bending and / or torsion, and / or have higher strength and / or higher durability compared to the carriers and columns of the steel support structure in the sub-region 104. Furthermore, the sub-region 104 has a foundation at its bottom that is less reinforced than the foundation of the core region 102. In the core region 102, the foundation can be designed with greater strength and / or greater durability compared to the foundation of the sub-region 104. For example, the foundation of the core region 102 may have a thicker base plate and / or more steel inserts / reinforcements compared to the foundation of the sub-region 104. The sub-region may house at least one functional module selected from the group including additive lift modules, additive distribution modules, additive doping modules, process section modules, booster system modules, granulation modules, hot oil modules, granulation water system modules, pellet drying modules, pellet screening modules, pellet buffer container modules, pellet discharge modules, and maintenance modules.

[0080] The two outer regions 106 are directly adjacent to the sub-region. In this embodiment shown in Figure 1, the two outer regions 106 are located on the opposite side of the sub-region 104. The outer regions 106 do not have any spatial support structures. A foundation can be provided at the bottom of the outer regions 106 as required. The foundation of the outer regions 106 can correspond to the foundation of the sub-region 104. However, a foundation for the outer regions 106 is not always necessary and may or may not be provided depending on the requirements. The outer regions 106 can be located partially or completely outside the building on which the production plant is located. The outer regions 106 can house at least one functional module selected from a group including, for example, an additive distribution module, a startup system module, a hot oil module, and a granulation water system module. The first, lowest or most basic level of the outer regions 106 can house one or more functional modules selected from a group including a startup system module, a hot oil module, and a granulation water system module.

[0081] Figure 2 shows a modified core area 200 of a modular production process. The core area 200 is, for example, substantially L-shaped and has a spatial support structure for a grid design, and the grid 202 has a plurality of grid units 204, each having a grid length l, grid width b, and grid height h. The grid length l, grid width b, and / or grid height h of at least one grid unit 204 can substantially correspond to the spatial dimensions of a functional module placed in the grid unit 204. The grid length l and / or grid width b can be determined additionally or alternatively depending on the functional module. The grid height h can be determined additionally or alternatively by the structure. The grid dimensions of the grid 202 and the spatial dimensions of the functional module can be designed at least partially as standardized dimensions or grid dimensions.

[0082] In this embodiment shown in Figure 2, the grid lengths l and grid widths b of the grid units 204, which are arranged vertically relative to each other in the height direction and particularly vertically relative to each other, are all substantially the same. The spatial support structure or grid has a first, in this case the lowest level 206 having a first minimum height or minimum grid height h1, and a plurality of second levels 208 (for example, eight second levels 208 in Figure 2) arranged and constructed on the first level 206, each having a second minimum height or minimum grid height h2. The first minimum grid height h1 of the first level 206 is greater than the second minimum grid height h2 of each of the second levels 208, where all of the plurality of second levels 208 have the same second minimum grid height h2. For example, the minimum grid height h1 of the first level 206 is approximately 6.0 to 10.0 m, and the second minimum grid height h2 of each of the second levels 208 is approximately 3.0 to 5.0 m. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the minimum grid height h1 of the first level 206 is approximately 8.0 m, and the second minimum grid height h2 of the second level 208 is approximately 3.5 m.

[0083] The grid points of grid 202 shown in Figure 2 can be defined by the hypothetical connection points or connection points 210 of the illustrated vertical and horizontal lines. For example, the lines can represent the axes of carriers and supports arranged vertically and horizontally in the spatial support structure, and / or define their positions and / or orientations.

[0084] The core area 200 may contain at least one functional module selected from the group including a silo module, an additive distribution module, an additive doping module, a drive train module, a gear module, a process section module, a boost system module, a granulation module, a pellet drying module, a pellet screening module, a pellet buffer container module, and a pellet discharge module. In particular, the first, lowest, or most recent level 206 of the core area 200 may contain at least one functional module selected from the group including a drive train module, a gear module, a process section module, a boost system module, and a granulation module.

[0085] Furthermore, please refer in particular to Figure 1 and related explanations.

[0086] Figure 3 shows a modified example of a sub-region 300 of a modular production plant. Figure 3 shows two sub-regions 300. A production plant may have at least one sub-region, but may also have multiple sub-regions, for example, two or more sub-regions. The sub-regions may be different or substantially the same.

[0087] The sub-region 300 is, for example, substantially I-shaped and has a spatial support structure for a grid design, and the grid 302 has a plurality of grid units 304, each having a grid length l, grid width b, and grid height h. The grid length l, grid width b, and / or grid height h of at least one grid unit 304 may substantially correspond to the spatial dimensions of a functional module placed in the grid unit 304. The grid length l and / or grid width b may be additionally or alternatively determined depending on the functional module. The grid height h may additionally or alternatively be determined by the structure. The grid dimensions of the grid 302 and the spatial dimensions of the functional module can be designed, at least partially, as standardized dimensions or grid dimensions. In this embodiment shown in Figure 3, all grid units 304 of the sub-region 300 are located on level 306, for example, the lowest surface. Additionally or alternatively, at least partially, grid units may be arranged vertically to each other in the height direction, and in particular substantially vertically to each other (as shown, for example, in Figure 4). Therefore, several levels, such as height levels, may be provided in the sub-region 300, for example, two, three, or more. The first minimum grid height of the first lowest level of the sub-region 300, and / or the second minimum grid height(s) of at least one second level of the sub-region 300 located and constructed on the first level, can be formed and / or defined as described above with reference to Figure 2.

[0088] The grid points of the grid 302 shown in Figure 3 can be defined by the hypothetical connection points or connection positions 308 of the illustrated vertical and horizontal lines. For example, the lines can represent the axes of carriers and supports arranged vertically and horizontally in the spatial support structure, and / or define their positions and / or orientations.

[0089] Sub-region 300 may contain at least one functional module selected from the group including an additive lift module, an additive distribution module, an additive doping module, a process section module, a booster system module, a granulation module, a hot oil module, a granulation water system module, a pellet drying module, a pellet screening module, a pellet buffer container module, a pellet discharge module, and a maintenance module. In particular, the first lowest layer 306 of sub-region 300 may contain at least one functional module selected from the group including an additive lift module, a process section module, a booster system module, a granulation module, a hot oil module, a granulation water system module, and a maintenance module. The additive lift module may also extend across multiple levels, particularly in the height direction.

[0090] Furthermore, please refer in particular to Figures 1 and 2 and related explanations.

[0091] Figure 4 schematically shows a modular production plant 400 having a grid-structured spatial support structure 402. The production plant 400 is designed and configured for material processing by extrusion. The spatial support structure 402 is designed as a steel support structure and serves to accommodate multiple functional modules of the production plant 400. The steel support structure has multiple vertically arranged carriers 404 and multiple horizontally arranged supports 406, which are made of steel. Additionally or alternatively, the spatial support structure 402 can be formed as a concrete structure and / or a wooden support structure. The spatial support structure 402 and / or its carriers or supports are, for example, made of steel and / or concrete and / or reinforced concrete and / or wood. The connections or connection locations 408 of the carriers and supports, in particular aerial, are defined by a grid or its grid points. The grid has multiple, in particular aerial, grid units 410, and the grid or its grid units 410 can be formed as described above and / or below. The grid unit 410 can also extend across multiple grid units 410, for example, two, particularly adjacent grid units 410, as shown in Figure 4. Thus, the steel support structure is composed of cubic and cubic grid units 410, which are formed by carriers 404 and columns 406.

[0092] The production plant 400 consists of a plurality of functional modules selected based on defined requirements, such as process and / or method requirements, for the plant concept of the production plant 400. The grid of the spatial support structure 402, in particular its grid dimensions, are determined and / or defined at least in part, taking into account the specified requirements and / or according to the spatial dimensions of the selected functional modules and / or according to the relationships and / or arrangement and / or alignment of the selected functional modules relative to each other. The individual functional modules are placed and aligned on the specified and / or defined grid.

[0093] The production plant 400 has a core region 412, at least one sub-region 414 directly adjacent to the core region 412, and two outer regions 416 directly adjacent to the sub-region 414.

[0094] In the core region 412, the steel support structure is reinforced, and the carriers 404 and columns 406 of the steel support structure are reinforced compared to the carriers 404 and columns 406 in the secondary region 414. As shown in Figure 4, the carriers 404 and columns 406 of the steel support structure in the core region 412 can have a larger and / or more elastic cross-section than the carriers 404 and columns 406 in the secondary region 414. In the core region 412, the carriers and columns of the steel support structure are designed to have greater rigidity, e.g., greater resistance to bending and / or torsion, and / or higher strength and / or higher durability, compared to the carriers and columns of the steel support structure in the secondary region 414. As a result, the carriers 404 and columns 406 of the steel support structure in the core region can withstand greater loads. Furthermore, a reinforced foundation is provided at the bottom of the core region 412. In the core region 412, the foundation may be designed to have greater strength and / or greater durability compared to the foundation of the sub-region 414. For example, the foundation of the core region 412 may be or include a thicker base plate and / or have more steel inserts / reinforcements compared to the foundation of the sub-region 414. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the core region 412 contains a silo module 418, an additive distribution module (not shown), an additive doping module 420, a drive train module 422, a gear module 424, a process section module 426, a booster system module (not shown), a granulation module 428, a pellet / drying / screening module 430, a pellet / buffer container module 432, and a pellet discharge module (not shown), all arranged in an effective and functional relative manner. The silo module 418 extends across multiple levels in the height direction and stands vertically beyond the last level in the upper region of the production plant 400. The additive doping module 420 also extends across multiple levels in the height direction and is located in the central region of the production plant 400.The drive train module 422, gear module 424, process section module 426, boost system module, and pelletizing module 428 are located at the first lowest level and are positioned substantially one-to-one with respect to each other in the process direction. The pellet, drying, and screening module 430 and pellet buffer container module 432 extend across multiple levels in the height direction and are located in the outer area of ​​the production plant 400.

[0095] In the sub-region 414, the carriers 404 and columns 406 of the spatial support structure 402 are designed to be less reinforced compared to the carriers 404 and columns 406 in the core region 412. As shown in Figure 4, the carriers 404 and columns 406 of the steel support structure in the sub-region 414 may have a smaller and / or lower durability cross-section than the carriers 404 and columns 406 of the steel support structure in the core region 412. Furthermore, a foundation is provided at the bottom of the sub-region 414, which is less reinforced and / or less durable than the foundation in the core region 412. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, an additive lift module (not shown), a granulation water system module 434 extending into the outer region 416, a motor maintenance module 436, and a gear maintenance module 438 are effectively and functionally arranged relative to each other in the sub-region 414. The additive lift module extends across multiple levels in the height direction. The granulation water system module (434), the motor maintenance module (436), and the gear maintenance module (438) are located at the first lowest level.

[0096] The two external regions 416 are located opposite the sub-region 414 and do not have a spatial support structure 402. The external regions 416 can be located partially or completely outside the building on which the production plant 400 is located. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the hot oil module 440 and, in part, the granulation water system module 434 are arranged effectively and functionally relative to each other in the external region 416. The hot oil module 440 and the granulation water system module 434 are located at a first lowest level.

[0097] The production plant 400 can be designed and / or implemented by the methods described above and / or described below.

[0098] For further details, please refer specifically to Figures 1 through 3 and related explanations.

[0099] Figure 5 schematically shows a process flow diagram for designing a production plant, for example, a modular plant. The production plant can be designed and / or configured to process materials by extrusion. The production plant is or can be designed as described above and / or below.

[0100] In the first step S1, requirements, particularly process and / or procedure requirements, are defined for the plant concept of the planned production plant.

[0101] In the second step S2, multiple functional modules are selected based on the defined requirements.

[0102] Functional modules can be selected from the following groups: silo module, additive lift module, additive distribution module, additive doping module, drive train module, gear module, process section module, booster system module, granulation module, start-up system module, hot oil module, granulation water system module, pellet drying module, pellet screening module, pellet buffer container module, pellet discharge module, and maintenance module.

[0103] In the third step S3, a grid, particularly a grid for a plant and / or building, is defined, taking into account the determined requirements and / or spatial dimensions of the selected functional modules, and / or the relationships, and / or arrangement and / or orientation of the selected functional modules.

[0104] Defining a grid involves determining grid units having grid length, grid width, and grid height, respectively. Grid length and grid width are defined by functional modules. Grid height is determined according to the structure. Defining a grid also involves determining multiple levels having minimum heights, particularly minimum grid heights. Minimum level heights are determined based on spatial dimensions, in particular the height of functional modules above at least one of each level, and / or can be determined and / or defined based on determined requirements.

[0105] Defining a grid may further involve determining a first level having a first minimum height, in particular a minimum grid height, and at least one second level having a second minimum height, in particular a minimum grid height, where the first minimum height of the first level is greater than the second minimum height of at least one second level.

[0106] In the fourth step S4, the selected functional modules are placed and aligned on the defined grid.

[0107] A grid is defined, and functional modules are arranged and aligned on the defined grid so that functions such as the overall function of the production plant and each functional module, and the relationships between functional modules are realized. Heavy functional modules, such as heavy load functional modules and / or force-introducing functional modules and / or explosion-hazard functional modules, can be arranged substantially adjacent or adjacent laterally and / or substantially vertically, insofar as they are related to the process and / or related to the function. Support points of functional modules, in particular bearing points, support points and / or mounting points, can be arranged and aligned at least partially on the defined grid.

[0108] This method can also be used to plan and define support structures, particularly frame-like support structures such as spatial structures and / or building structures, using a defined grid.

[0109] In this method, it is also possible to define at least one core region in which the support structure is reinforced and has a reinforced foundation. Furthermore, at least one sub-region can be defined, particularly adjacent to at least one core region, in which the support structure is less reinforced compared to the support structure in at least one core region and has a less reinforced foundation compared to the foundation in at least one core region. In at least one core region, the support structure can be defined and / or determined to be more rigid, for example more resistant to bending and / or torsion, and / or have higher strength and / or higher load-bearing capacity compared to the support structure in at least one sub-region. Furthermore, in at least one core region, the foundation can be designed to have higher strength and / or higher durability compared to the foundation in at least one sub-region. Furthermore, at least one outer region, particularly adjacent to at least one core region and / or at least one sub-region, can be defined in which no support structure is provided.

[0110] For further details, please refer specifically to Figures 1 through 4 and related explanations.

[0111] In particular, "can or may (kann)" refers to any feature of the present invention. Therefore, there are further embodiments and / or examples of embodiments of the present invention that have each of these features or features, either additionally or alternatively.

[0112] If necessary, features independent of the combination of features disclosed herein may be selected and combined with other features to define the subject matter of the claims, and any structural and / or functional connections that may exist between features may be resolved. The order and / or number of steps of the method may be varied. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 100 Production Plants 102 Core Area 104 Subarea 106 Outer area 200 core area 202 grid 204 grid units 206 1st / Lowest Level 208 Level 2 210 Connection points / grid points 300 subareas 302 grid 304 Grid Units Level 306 308 Connection points / grid points 400 production equipment 402 Spatial support structure 404 Carrier 406 Post 408 Connection points / grid points 410 grid units 412 core areas 414 Subarea 416 Outer area 418 Silo Modules 420 Additive Doping Module 422 Drive Train Module 424 Gear Module 426 Process Section Module 428 Pellet Module 430 Pellet Drying and Screening Module 432 Pellet Buffer Container Module 434 Granulation Water System Module 436 Motor Maintenance Module 438 Gear Maintenance Module 440 Hot Oil Module Step S1: Define requirements Steps to select an S2 function module Steps to define an S3 grid Steps to place and align functional modules on the S4 grid. I Grid length b grid width h grid height h1 First minimum grid height h2 Second minimum grid height

Claims

1. A modular production plant (100, 400) for processing materials by extrusion molding, It comprises a plurality of functional modules (418-440) and a grid-structured spatial support structure (402) for housing the functional modules (418-440), The grid (202, 302) of the spatial support structure (402), particularly the dimensions of the grid, are determined at least partially in accordance with the spatial dimensions of the functional modules (418-440) and / or in accordance with the relationships and / or arrangement and / or orientation of the functional modules (418-440). Modular production equipment.

2. The dimensions of the grid (202, 302) and / or the grid dimensions and / or the spatial dimensions of the functional module (418, 440) are designed as at least partially standardized dimensions or grid dimensions. The modular production apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The grid (202, 302) comprises a plurality of grid units (204, 304, 410), each having a grid length (l), grid width (b), and grid height (h, h1, h2). The grid length (l), grid width (b), and / or grid height (h, h1, h2) of at least one grid unit (204, 304, 410) substantially corresponds to the spatial dimensions of the functional modules (418-440) located within the grid unit (204, 304, 410), and / or The grid length (l) and / or the grid width (b) are determined depending on the functional module and / or The grid heights (h, h1, h2) are determined for structural reasons. A modular production apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The grid (202, 302) comprises a plurality of grid units (204, 304, 410) each having a grid length (l), grid width (b), and grid height (h, h1, h2), The grid lengths (l) and / or grid widths (b) of grid units (204, 304, 410) arranged vertically to each other in the height direction, particularly substantially vertically, are all substantially the same, and / or In effect, the length or width of the grid unit (204, 304, 410) arranged in the height direction having the largest length or width, A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. At least one functional module (418-440) extends substantially across one, two or more grid units (204, 304, 410), A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The spatial support structure (402) and / or its grid (202, 302) has a first minimum height (h1), particularly a minimum grid height, and a first, particularly lowest, level (206, 306), Having at least one second level (206, 306) positioned and / or configured on the first level, having a second minimum height (h2), in particular a minimum grid height, A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The first minimum height (h1) of the first level (206, 306) is higher than the second minimum height (h(2)) of at least one of the second levels (208). The modular production apparatus according to claim 6.

8. A plurality of second levels (208) are provided, which are arranged and / or configured to be one above the other. All of the aforementioned multiple second levels (208) have the same second minimum height (h2). The modular production apparatus according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The first minimum height (h1) of the first level is approximately 6.0 to 10.0 m, preferably approximately 8.0 m, and / or The second minimum height (h2) of at least one of the second levels is about 3.0 to 5.0 m, preferably about 3.5 m. A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The aforementioned functional module (418-440) is Silo module (418), additive lift module, additive distribution module, additive doping module (420), drive train module (422), gear module (424), process section module (426), boost system module, granulation module (428), start-up system module, hot oil module (440), granulation water system module (434), pellet drying module (430), pellet screening module (430), pellet buffer container module (432), pellet discharge module, maintenance modules (436, 438), The group comprises at least one functional module (418-440) from which the group includes, A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The spatial support structure (402) is reinforced, and / or at least one core region (102, 200, 412) having a reinforced foundation is provided. A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. At least one sub-region (104, 300, 414), in particular, at least one sub-region (104, 300, 414) is provided adjacent to the at least one core region (102, 200, 412), In the sub-region, the spatial support structure (402) is designed to be less reinforced than the spatial support structure (402) in the at least one core region (102, 200, 412), and / or The sub-region has a foundation that is less reinforced than the foundation in the at least one core region (102, 200, 412). The modular production apparatus according to claim 11.

13. At least one outer region (106, 416), in particular at least one outer region (106, 416) adjacent to the at least one core region (102, 200, 412) and / or the sub-regions (104, 300, 414), is provided. The aforementioned outer region does not have the aforementioned spatial support structure (402) in place. The modular production apparatus according to claim 11 or 12.

14. In the aforementioned at least one core region (102, 200, 412), At least one functional module (418-440) selected from the group including a silo module (418), an additive distribution module, an additive doping module (420), a drive train module (422), a gear module (424), a process section module (426), a boost system module, a granulation module (428), a pellet drying module (430), a pellet screening module (430), a pellet buffer container module (432), and a pellet discharge module is provided. A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. In the aforementioned at least one sub-region (104, 300, 414), At least one functional module (418-440) selected from the group including an additive lift module, an additive distribution module, an additive doping module (420), a process section module (426), a booster system module, a granulation module (428), a hot oil module (440), a granulation water system module (434), a pellet drying module (430), a pellet screening module (430), a pellet buffer container module (432), a pellet discharge module, and maintenance modules (436, 438) is provided. A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

16. In the aforementioned at least one outer region (106, 416), At least one functional module (418-440) selected from the group including an additive delivery module, a startup system module, a hot oil module (440), and a granulated water system module (434) is provided. A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 15.

17. In the aforementioned first level (206, 306), At least one functional module (418-440) selected from the group including an additive lift module, a drive train module (422), a gear module (424), a process section module (426), a boost system module, a granulation module (428), a start-up system module, a hot oil module (440), a granulation water system module (434), and maintenance modules (436, 438) is provided. A modular production apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A method for designing a production plant (100, 400) for processing materials by extrusion, more particularly the production plant (100, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 17: - Step (S1) of determining the requirements for the plant concept of the planned production plant (100, 400), in particular the process requirements and / or method requirements; - Step (S2) of selecting a plurality of functional modules (418-440) based on the determined requirements; - Step (S3) of defining grids (202, 302), in particular plant grids and / or building grids, taking into account the determined requirements and / or spatial dimensions of the selected functional modules (418-440), and / or the relationships and / or arrangement and / or alignment of the selected functional modules (418-440); - Step (S4) of arranging and / or aligning the selected functional modules (418-440) in a defined grid (202, 302), A method that includes this.

19. The grid (202, 302) is defined and / or the functional modules (418-440) are arranged and / or aligned on the defined grid (202, 302) so that the overall function of the production plant (100, 400) and / or the functions of each functional module (418-440) and / or the interrelationships of the functional modules (418-440) can be realized. The method according to claim 18.

20. The step (S3) of defining the grid (202, 302) includes the step of determining grid units (204, 304, 410) having grid length (l), grid width (b), and grid height (h, h1, h2), The grid length (l) and / or grid width (b) are determined depending on the functional module, and / or the grid height (h, h(1), h(2)) is determined depending on the construction method, and / or the step of defining the grid (202, 302) (S3) includes the step of determining the minimum height (h, h1, h2), in particular a plurality of levels (206, 208, 306) having the minimum grid height. The minimum height (h, h1, h2) of the levels (206, 208, 306) is determined depending on the construction method, and the steps (306) are determined and / or defined based on the spatial dimensions, particularly the height, of at least one functional module (418-440) provided on each level (206, 208, 306), and / or based on the determined requirements, and / or Step (S3) of defining the grid (202, 302) includes determining a first minimum height (h1), in particular a first level (206, 306) having a minimum grid height, and a second minimum height (h2), in particular at least one second level (208) having a minimum grid height, The first minimum height (h1) of the first level (206, 306) is greater than the second minimum height (h2) of at least one second level (208). The method according to claim 18 or 19.

21. Heavy-duty function modules (418-440), such as heavy-load function modules and / or force introduction function modules and / or explosion hazard function modules, are arranged substantially directly adjacent or adjacent to each other in the lateral direction and / or substantially vertically in the height direction, insofar as they are process-dependent and / or function-dependent. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20.

22. The support points of the functional modules (418-440), particularly the bearing points, support points and / or mounting points, are at least partially located and / or aligned on a defined grid (202, 302). The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21.

23. The defined grid (202, 302) allows for the planning and / or definition of support structures, particularly frame-like, spatial support structures and / or building support structures. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 22.

24. At least one core region (102, 200, 412) is defined, and the support structure (402) is reinforced or has a reinforced and / or reinforced foundation, and in particular at least one sub-region (104, 300, 414) adjacent to at least one core region (102, 200, 412) is defined, In the at least one sub-region (104, 300, 414), the support structure (402) is less reinforced and / or reinforced than the support structure (402) in the at least one core region (102, 200, 412), and / or the at least one sub-region (104, 300, 414) has a foundation that is less reinforced than the foundation in the at least one core region (102, 200, 412), in particular, there is defined at least one outer region (106, 416) adjacent to the at least one core region (102, 200, 412) and / or the sub-region (104, 300, 414), and the support structure (402) is not provided or not provided in the outer region (106, 416). The method according to claim 23.

25. The aforementioned functional module (418-440) is Silo module (418), additive lift module, additive distribution module, additive doping module (420), drive train module (422), gear module (424), process section module (426), boost system module, granulation module (428), start-up system module, hot oil module (440), granulation water system module (434), pellet drying module (430), pellet screening module (430), pellet buffer container module (432), pellet discharge module, maintenance modules (436, 438), The method according to any one of claims 18 to 24.

26. A modular production plant (100, 400) for processing materials by extrusion, more particularly the production plant (100, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the production plant (100, 400) is designed and / or implemented according to the method according to any one of claims 18 to 25. Modular production equipment.

Images