Transfer star wheel, transfer star wheel system and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a transfer star wheel (10) for transferring pharmaceutical products, comprising: a central region (11) having a plurality of contact sections, wherein each contact section (12) is designed to come into contact with a pharmaceutical product in order to transfer the pharmaceutical product along a circumferential direction, wherein the central region (11) has at least one circular segment (13), and the at least one circular segment (13) can be displaced in a radial direction (R) with respect to the circumferential direction such that the at least one circular segment (13) can be moved between a first position and a second position.

Description

[0001] Transfer star, transfer star system and process

[0002] The present invention relates to a transfer system for transferring pharmaceutical products. The present invention further relates to a transfer star system for transferring pharmaceutical products and a method for operating a transfer star for transporting pharmaceutical products.

[0003] In the prior art, a transfer system is often used to transport pharmaceutical products. For example, when transporting pharmaceutical products such as ampoules, vials, syringes, cartridges (cylindrical ampoules), or bottles, it may be necessary to provide timed transport. For instance, pharmaceutical products can be conveyed from a continuous product mass flow into a product nest where they initially accumulate. The products can then be removed from the product nest and transferred to a timed conveyor. To implement such timed transport, so-called star segments or transfer stars are used.

[0004] During maintenance, such as the reinitialization or reconfiguration of a transport or handling system, it may be necessary to completely remove the products from the transport system and thus from the transfer system. This requires either partially disassembling the transfer star or manually removing the products individually at the transfer system's output. The possible methods for emptying a transfer system are therefore complex. Furthermore, products, especially ampoules, can be damaged during manual removal or disassembly. In light of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved transfer system.

[0005] This problem is solved by a transfer system having the features of claim 1, by a transfer system system having the features of claim 27 and by a method having the features of claim 28.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a transfer system is provided for transferring pharmaceutical products, comprising: a central area with a plurality of contact sections, each contact section being configured to come into contact with a pharmaceutical product in order to transfer it along a circular direction, the central area having at least one circular segment, the at least one circular segment being displaceable in a radial direction with respect to the circular direction, such that the first circular segment is displaceable between a first position and a second position.

[0007] Compared to the prior art, the present invention offers the advantage that, in the event of a re-initialization or maintenance work on a transfer system or a handling system for pharmaceutical products, the products can be easily removed from the transfer system. At least one circular segment of the transfer system can be moved to a desired position for product removal. In this position, the products can be accessed, allowing for faster and easier removal without having to disassemble the transfer system. This saves time and costs, as emptying the transfer system is accelerated. Furthermore, the risk of product damage during removal from the transfer system is reduced. In other words, the transfer system does not need to be manually rotated to move products to an outlet.The transfer star is designed to transfer pharmaceutical products. Pharmaceutical products can include, for example, syringes, ampoules, vials, syringes / cartridges (cylindrical ampoules), and / or vials. The transfer system can also be referred to as a transfer wheel. It is possible that other pharmaceutical products or other product types can be transferred using the transfer star. The term "transfer" can be understood as the transport or movement of the product from a starting point to an end point. The movement can be linear and / or circular. The central area can be the part of the transfer system that performs a rotational movement during operation. In other words, the central area can be the part of the transfer system designed to rotate around an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation can extend through the center point of the central area.The central area can have a substantially circular geometry. It can be a single piece or a multi-part structure. For example, the central area can be monolithic, meaning it can be manufactured from a single workpiece, or it can consist of several components that are positively, force-, and / or materially bonded together. The contact sections can be sections of the transfer system intended to come into contact with, or already in contact with, a pharmaceutical product during operation. Preferably, all contact sections have an identical geometry. Alternatively, the contact sections can have different geometries. The contact sections can be adapted to the shape of a product to be transferred. In other words, the contact sections can have a geometry that corresponds to the geometry of a product to be transferred.The contact sections can be designed such that they at least partially enclose or delimit the product. The contact sections can be located around the circumference of the central area. They can be adjacent to one another or spaced apart. Each contact section can be designed to hold a pharmaceutical product. The contact sections can interact with a counter-holder to hold the pharmaceutical products. The contact sections can be designed to move the pharmaceutical products in a circular direction. In other words, the contact sections can be designed to move the products in the circular direction, particularly along a circular path. For this purpose, the contact sections can preferably be arranged radially outside the central area. The contact sections can, for example, include projections and / or recesses.In particular, the contact sections can include at least partially circular recesses. Preferably, a pharmaceutical product is received in a receiving area within a contact area and transferred in a circular direction to a dispensing area. The product is then dispensed or transferred in the dispensing area. The central area comprises at least one circular segment. This circular segment can be referred to as the segment of the central area on which the contact sections are arranged. The circular segment can comprise at least a portion of a circle. Preferably, the circular segment has a circular arc geometry, at least in part. Alternatively, the circular segment can comprise other shapes or geometries. The circular segment offers the advantage that a portion of the transfer system can be relocated without having to disassemble the transfer star.In other words, the circular segment can be reversibly repositioned, allowing the geometry of the transfer system to be changed quickly to provide access to the pharmaceutical products. It is particularly preferred that the circular segment can be repositioned without tools. This allows for easy repositioning without requiring significant effort from the user. The circular segment can be a wedge-shaped section of the central area. The circular segment can also be referred to as a holding segment. The circular segment can have a circular arc geometry. The circular arc geometry is preferably arranged radially on the outside. The circular segment can be part of the central area and designed to rotate around the axis of rotation. The circular segment can be repositionable radially with respect to the direction of rotation.In other words, the circular segment can be displaced radially with respect to the center of the central area. That is, the circular segment can be moved towards and away from the center of the central area. The circular segment can be moved or transferred radially from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the circular segment can be located further out radially than in the second position. For example, the first position could be an operating or transfer position, and the second position a maintenance or standstill position. During operation, the products located in the contact areas are difficult to access. For example, the products may be trapped between a guide element or counter element and the contact area (e.g.,(be in contact with the product), so that the products cannot be removed upwards, for example. By moving the circular segments from the first position to the second position, more space can be gained to access the products. This simplifies and speeds up handling the products in the contact areas, especially product removal. In the first position, at least one circular segment can be in the operating position. The first position can be the position in which the at least one circular segment has the maximum distance from the center of the transfer star. In other words, the at least one circular segment cannot be moved further in the radial direction of the transfer stem than to the first position. Thus, an operating position can be easily achieved by moving the circular segment as far radially away from the center of the transfer stem as possible.Consequently, the handling of the transfer stem can be simplified. For example, movement of at least one circular segment in the radial direction can be limited by a stop or a guide. Furthermore, at least one circular segment can be fixed in the first position. In other words, at least one circular segment cannot move relative to another circular segment or other parts of the transfer stem in the first position. More precisely, at least one circular segment does not need to be spring-mounted to ensure reliable operation of the transfer stem in the first position. In the first position, the circular segment can only be moved by rotating the transfer stem. At least one circular segment can be rigid in the first position. Preferably, the central area is a disc-like element. This allows the transfer stem to be used even in confined spaces.Furthermore, the central area can be round. This is advantageous for transfer stars used for transferring products.

[0008] Preferably, the first and second positions differ with respect to the radial direction of the central area. This means that the circular segment in the first position is positioned differently in the radial direction than in the second position. The second position can be located closer to the center of the central area in the radial direction than the first position. In other words, the second position can be located at a different position in the radial direction of the central area than the first position. This provides sufficient space to easily remove the pharmaceutical products contained in the contact sections.

[0009] Preferably, the central area is divided into at least a first circular segment and a second circular segment. The first and second circular segments can have substantially identical geometries. Furthermore, the first and second circular segments can have the same number or a different number of contact sections. Alternatively or additionally, the shape or geometry of the contact sections of the first circular segment can differ from the shape or geometry of the contact sections of the second circular segment.

[0010] Preferably, the circular segments are movable relative to each other. This means that the first and second circular segments can be moved independently into the first and second positions. For example, the first circular segment can be in the first position and the second circular segment in the second position. This allows the pharmaceutical products located in the contact sections to be removed from the circular segments sequentially. For example, the products can be removed from the first circular segment first, followed by the products from the second circular segment. This can be advantageous if the transfer stem is difficult to access and the circular segments need to be arranged at a specific angle for easier access.

[0011] Preferably, the circular segments are formed from a solid material. For example, the circular segments can be made of plastic or metal. In particular, the circular segments can be monolithic, i.e., manufactured from a single workpiece. This increases the stability and robustness of the circular segments.

[0012] Preferably, a recess segment is provided between adjacent circular segments. In other words, the recess segment can be arranged between the first and second circular segments. The recess segment can also be referred to as a recess area or gap. The recess segment is a recess arranged between two circular segments. The recess segment preferably has a geometry corresponding to the circular segments between which it is arranged. The recess segment can create a space that is advantageous for the radial movement of the circular segments. This facilitates the displacement of the circular segments into the first position and / or the second position.

[0013] Preferably, the at least one circular segment is displaceable along a straight line between the first position and the second position. In other words, the at least one circular segment is linearly displaceable. Preferably, the at least one circular segment is displaceable along a line intersecting the center of the central area. Preferably, in one embodiment, the at least one circular segment is displaceable in the radial direction of the central area. This allows the movement or stroke required to transfer the at least one circular segment from the first position to the second position to be kept as small as possible. Preferably, the central area comprises a plurality of circular segments. For example, the central area can include a third and fourth circular segment. This makes it possible to provide several radially movable circular segments.This is particularly advantageous for transfer systems with larger dimensions that can transfer or transport many products at once. This allows the products to be removed from the contact sections of one circular segment after another.

[0014] Preferably, the central area comprises three circular segments. These circular segments can be spaced essentially equally apart. The three circular segments can be identical. The three circular segments allow contact sections to be provided essentially along the entire direction of rotation, thus providing sufficient clearance or space for radial displacement.

[0015] Preferably, the central area is designed to rotate. This means that the central area is mounted so that it can rotate. The central area can, for example, be coupled to a shaft, with the shaft transmitting a rotation to the central area. For example, the shaft can comprise a splined shaft or a section with teeth. Alternatively, other mountings or methods are possible for transmitting a rotation to the central area. For example, the central area or the transfer system can be magnetically mounted.

[0016] Preferably, the transfer system further comprises a drive designed to rotate the transfer system. For example, the transfer system can be coupled to an electric motor to perform a rotational movement. In particular, this enables continuous and controllable rotation or controllable operation of the transfer system.

[0017] Preferably, the transfer system is designed to be rotationally symmetrical. It is conceivable that the transfer system is designed to be rotationally symmetrical, at least in sections. This can mean that the circular segments are arranged rotationally symmetrically. For example, the transfer system can comprise several circular segments, which are preferably identical and arranged at equal intervals around the circumference. Furthermore, this makes it possible to provide a desired cycle time for the transport of the pharmaceutical products.

[0018] Preferably, at least one circular segment is designed and arranged in such a way that it can be detached from the transfer system. In other words, the at least one circular segment can be detachably connected to or arranged on the central area. This means that the at least one circular segment of the transfer system is removable. In this way, the at least one circular segment can be replaced. Thus, a modular transfer system can be provided. The modular transfer system can be adapted to different pharmaceutical products by exchanging the circular segment.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one circular segment has a guide for radial movement. The guide is specifically designed to guide the at least one circular segment during radial movement, in order to move the at least one circular segment from the first position to the second position. In one embodiment, the guide is configured as an elongated slot. In another embodiment, the at least one circular segment includes the elongated slot, or the elongated slot is arranged within the circular segment. The elongated slot preferably extends radially, i.e., in the direction in which the circular segment is to be displaced or moved. Preferably, the circular segment includes two elongated slots. Alternatively, the circular segment can be guided radially by means of a rail arrangement or a groove.

[0020] Preferably, the transfer stem has a guide element that interacts with the elongated hole of the at least one circular segment to guide the circular segment. For example, a pin can be arranged on the transfer stem, particularly in the central area, which is designed or configured to interact with the elongated hole so that the at least one circular segment is guided radially. This prevents the circular segment from shifting to a position other than between the first and second positions, thus avoiding misalignment.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one circular segment has a fixing mechanism that can secure it in the first position and / or the second position. A fixing mechanism can be, for example, a positive-locking and / or force-locking mechanism. The fixing mechanism can, for example, be designed as a sliding and lockable latch. This prevents the circular segment from being unintentionally displaced or moved. Furthermore, the fixing mechanism can be a screwable element that can be screwed into the at least one circular segment to secure it against displacement.

[0022] Preferably, the fixing mechanism comprises a knurled screw. Other types of screws are also possible. In the assembled state, the screw, particularly the knurled screw, can be located in or extend through the elongated hole. The screw is connected to the central area. The screw engages with the elongated hole in such a way that a guide for the circular segment is formed. By tightening the screw, the at least one circular segment can be fixed in the first position and / or the second position. The screw can therefore also form or serve as the guide element.

[0023] In one embodiment, the central area features a locking element that can hold the at least one circular segment in the first position and / or the second position. In other words, the fixing can be designed as or include a locking element. The at least one circular segment can be held in the first position and / or the second position by a positive locking connection. A locking connection is advantageous because it can be easily disassembled and reassembled. Furthermore, this prevents the circular segment from being unintentionally displaced. By requiring a certain force to move the circular segment, feedback can be provided to the operator that the circular segment is in the first position. This can increase ease of use when operating the circular segment.

[0024] Preferably, the central area has at least one stop that can define the first position and / or the second position. In other words, in one embodiment, the central area and / or the at least one circular segment has at least one stop configured to define the first position and / or the second position. The stop enables the at least one circular segment to be reliably moved into the first position and / or the second position. The at least one circular segment can include a first stop for the first position and a second stop for the second position. The at least one stop can be part of the guide.

[0025] Preferably, the central area includes an actuator configured to move at least one circular segment between the first and second positions. The actuator can, in particular, be a linear actuator. The actuator can be electrically, hydraulically, and / or pneumatically operated. The actuator can, for example, enable continuous or incremental movement. The actuator can perform the movement of at least one circular segment at least partially or fully automatically.

[0026] Preferably, the transfer star has at least one preload element designed to apply a force to at least one circular segment, driving it into the first position. In other words, the preload element applies a preload force to the at least one circular segment, holding it in the first position and / or the second position. If the at least one circular segment is not in the first position, the force can drive it into the first position. This provides a way to move the circular segment radially or hold it in a desired position without an actuator. This increases safety because it ensures that the circular segment is always returned to the first position and thus to the operating position. This prevents incorrect operation.In other words, the transfer system can be prevented from operating as long as at least one circular segment is still in the second position. To move it in a direction opposite to the preload force, an actuator can be used that applies a force against the preload force.

[0027] Preferably, the preload element is designed as a spring element. The spring element can, for example, comprise a helical spring, spiral spring, compression spring, and / or torsion spring. Alternatively, the spring element can comprise an elastomer or be made of an elastomer. Such a spring element can be designed to be as small and compact as possible and therefore represents an advantageous way of providing a preload force.

[0028] Preferably, the transfer star has a sensor designed to detect the position of at least one circular segment. More precisely, the sensor is designed to distinguish between the first and second positions of the circular segments. This ensures that the circular segments are in the correct position for a given process. Various types of sensors are possible. For example, optical sensors, particularly laser sensors or light barriers, can be used. This allows for at least partial automation of the circular segment relocation and increases system safety.

[0029] Preferably, the sensor is designed to issue a warning if at least one circular segment is not in the first position. Alternatively, the sensor can be designed to issue a warning if at least one circular segment is not in the second position. For this purpose, the sensor can be connected or coupled to a control unit or a computer unit via signal transmission. This can prevent or reduce damage to the machine and to the pharmaceutical products. The warning message can be audible, haptic, and / or visual. For example, the warning message can be transmitted to a mobile device, such as a tablet or smartphone, or it can trigger an alarm.

[0030] Preferably, the sensor includes a limit switch. The limit switch can have a mechanical actuator connected to an electrical switch. When a physical object touches the limit switch on an electrical actuator that is moved a certain distance, the electrical switch is triggered. Furthermore, the limit switch can output a signal upon contact. For example, the circular segment can come into contact with the limit switch in the first position, thus triggering a signal. The signal can indicate that the circular segment is in the first position. This ensures that the transfer system is only activated when the circular segment is in the first position (i.e., in the operating position).

[0031] Preferably, each contact section is designed to hold a pharmaceutical product at two contact points. More precisely, each contact section is designed to hold a pharmaceutical product at at least two points, or two contact points. This ensures that the pharmaceutical products are securely held within the contact sections. Preferably, the two contact points are spaced apart. This means, for example, that the products in the first and second positions cannot fall out of the contact sections without intervention. This offers the advantage that a wiper element can engage between the contact points to release products from the transfer stem. This prevents damage to the products.

[0032] Preferably, the central area is predominantly made of plastic. More precisely, the largest portion of the central area can be made of a plastic material. Alternatively or additionally, the central area can be made of a metal, for example, aluminum. This allows for a particularly lightweight design of the transfer system. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a transfer system for transferring pharmaceutical products, comprising a transfer star according to one of the preceding embodiments, a counter-holder which is arranged at least partially in a ring-like fashion around the transfer system, wherein the counter-holder and the transfer system form a transport path for pharmaceutical products. The transfer system, together with the counter-holder, can form a transport path for the pharmaceutical products.In other words, the counter-holder and the transfer stem can be arranged so that a product being transported cannot be removed during transport (when the circular segment is in the first position), but only at the beginning or at one end of the transport. This has the advantage that a product cannot fall out during transport.

[0033] For example, the transfer system can comprise several transfer stars arranged in series along the transfer path. The counter-holder can be described as a kind of track along which the pharmaceutical products are guided, preventing them from detaching from the contact sections. In other words, the counter-holder confines the pharmaceutical products radially.

[0034] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a transfer system for transporting pharmaceutical products, wherein the transfer system comprises: a plurality of contact sections, each contact section being configured to come into contact with a pharmaceutical product in order to transfer it; a central area on which the contact sections are provided, the central area being divided into at least one circular segment, the method comprising the following steps: moving the at least one circular segment in a radial direction of the central area to provide access to pharmaceutical products transported by the transfer system. Another aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a transport star according to any one of the preceding claims in a handling device for handling pharmaceutical products.

[0035] Individual features and embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments. Further developments and effects apply analogously to these new embodiments. Features and advantages mentioned in relation to the device also apply analogously to the method, and vice versa.

[0036] Further advantages and features will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures shown.

[0037] Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a transfer star according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 shows a schematic flowchart of a method for operating a transfer system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and

[0039] Figure 3 shows a schematic view of a transfer system system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 1 shows a transfer system 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. The transfer system 10 comprises a central section 11. The central section 11 comprises several components that are connected or connectable to one another. The central section 11 has a substantially circular geometry or shape. The central section includes a center point M.

[0041] The central section 11 includes a coupling element 14. The coupling element is coupled to a shaft 15. The shaft 15 transmits a rotational motion via the coupling element 14 to the central section 11. The central section 11 therefore rotates about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation extends through the center of the central section 11.

[0042] The central area 11 has three circular segments 13. The three circular segments 13 can be subdivided into a first circular segment 13a, a second circular segment 13b, and a third circular segment 13c. The three circular segments 13 are identical. This means that the three circular segments 13 have an identical shape or geometry. The three circular segments 13 each have a sector-like geometry. The circular segments 13 taper towards the axis of rotation of the central area 11. Radially, the circular segments 13 have an arc-shaped contour.

[0043] The circular arc contour contains essentially semicircular recesses. These recesses form contact sections 12. The contact sections 12 extend circumferentially over the circular segments 13. During operation, the contact sections 12 are in contact with a product, in particular a pharmaceutical product, for example, a syringe. When the transfer stem 10 rotates, the products located in the contact sections 12 are moved along a circular arc transfer path.

[0044] The circular segments 13 are connected to the central area 11 via two fastening elements 16. These fastening elements 16 are designed as knurled screws 18. Each circular segment 13 includes two elongated holes 17 as guides. The fastening elements 16 are arranged in the elongated holes 17, thus forming a guide for the circular segments 13.

[0045] The circular segments 13 are movably connected to, or movably arranged on, the central area 11. Starting from the axis of rotation of the transfer stem, the circular segments 13 are movable in a radial direction R. The radial direction R is the direction that extends perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The two elongated holes 17, which are arranged on the circular segments, are parallel to each other and to the radial direction R. The circular segments 13 are movably connected to the central area such that they can be moved from a first position to a second position. In Figure 1, the circular segments are arranged in the first position. The second position of the circular segments 13 is radially closer to the center of the central area 11 than the first position.

[0046] Figure 2 shows a method for operating a transfer star 10 for transporting pharmaceutical products, wherein the transfer star comprises: a plurality of contact sections, each contact section being configured to come into contact with a pharmaceutical product in order to transfer it; a circular central area on which the contact sections are provided, the central area being divided into at least a first circular segment and a second circular segment, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0047] In a first step S1, at least one circular segment 13 in the radial direction of the central area 11 is moved into the first position to create access to pharmaceutical products that were transported by the transfer stem 10.

[0048] Subsequently, in a second step S2, the pharmaceutical products are extracted from the contact sections 12 of the circular segment 13.

[0049] Subsequently, in a second step, S2 moves the circular segment 13 back to its first position.

[0050] In a subsequent step S3, the remaining circular segments are optionally moved into the first position in the radial direction of the central area, and the pharmaceutical products are removed from the contact sections 12. In an optional fourth step S4, the remaining circular segments 13 are moved back into the first position. Figure 3 shows a transfer star system 20. The transfer system 20 comprises the transfer stem 10, for example as described in Figure 1, and a counter-holder 21. The transfer stem 10 interacts with the counter-holder 21 so that pharmaceutical products arranged in the contact sections can be transferred along a transfer path from a starting point to an endpoint. The transfer path is arc-shaped.

[0051] Other embodiments of the present invention are possible and can be understood and carried out by persons skilled in the art when applying the claimed subject matter by studying the figures, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In particular, the respective parts / functions of each embodiment described above can also be combined with one another. Furthermore, various steps of the method can be carried out in a different order than disclosed herein. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are mentioned in interdependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageous. Any reference numerals in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0052] Reference symbol list:

[0053] M Center

[0054] R Radial direction

[0055] 10 T transfer star

[0056] 11 Central Area

[0057] 12 contact sections

[0058] 13 Circle segment

[0059] 13a first circular segment

[0060] 13b second circular segment

[0061] 14 Coupling element

[0062] 15 wave

[0063] 16 fastening elements

[0064] 17 Guide (slotted hole)

[0065] 18 knurled screws

[0066] 20 Transfer system

[0067] 21 Counterholds

[0068] 22 recess segment

Claims

Claims 1. Transfer star (10) for transferring pharmaceutical products, comprising: a central area (11) with a plurality of contact sections (12), each contact section (12) being configured to come into contact with a pharmaceutical product in order to transfer it along a rotational direction, the central area (11) having at least one circular segment (13), the at least one circular segment (13) being displaceable in a radial direction (R) with respect to the rotational direction, such that the at least one circular segment (13) is displaceable between a first position and a second position.

2. Transfer system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the central area (11) is a disk-like element.

3. Transfer system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first position and the second position differ with respect to a radial direction (R) of the central region (11).

4. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) is divided into at least a first circular segment (13a) and a second circular segment (13b).

5. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circular segments (13a, 13b) are displaceable relative to each other.

6. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circular segments (13a, 13b) are formed from a solid material.

7. Transfer star (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a recess segment (22) is provided between adjacent circular segments (13a, 13b).

8. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one circular segment (13) is displaceable on a straight line between the first position and the second position.

9. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) has a plurality of circular segments (13a, 13b).

10. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) has three circular segments (13, 13a, 13b).

11. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) is designed to be rotatable.

12. Transfer stem (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer stem (10) further comprises a drive configured to drive the transfer stem (10) in a rotating manner.

13. Transfer stem (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer stem (10) is rotationally symmetric.

14. Transfer stem (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one circular segment (13) is designed and arranged such that it is detachable from the transfer stem (10).

15. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one circular segment (13) has at least one guide (17) to guide the circular segment (13) in the radial direction (R).

16. Transfer star (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer star (10) has a guide element which interacts with the elongated hole (17) of the at least one circular segment (13) to guide the circular segment (13).

17. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one circular segment (13) has a fixing which can fix the circular segment (13) in the first position and / or the second position.

18. Transfer stem (10) according to claim 17, wherein the fixing comprises a knurled screw.

19. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) has a detent element which can hold the at least one circular segment (13) in the first position and / or the second position.

20. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) has at least one stop which can define the first position and / or the second position.

21. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the central area (11) has an actuator configured to move the at least one circular segment (13) between the first position and the second position.

22. Transfer stem (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer stem (10) has at least one preload element configured to apply a force to at least one circular segment (13) which drives the circular segment (13) into the first position.

23. Transfer system (10) according to claim 22, wherein the preload element is designed as a spring element.

24. Transfer star (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the transfer star (10) has a sensor configured to detect a position of the at least one circular segment (13).

25. Transfer system (10) according to claim 24, wherein the sensor is configured to issue a warning if the at least one circular segment (13) is not arranged in the first position.

26. Transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each contact section is configured to hold a pharmaceutical product at two contact points.

27. Transfer system (20) for transferring pharmaceutical products, comprising a transfer system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, a counterholder (21) which is arranged at least partially in a ring shape around the transfer system (10), wherein the counterholder (21) and the transfer system (10) form a transport path for pharmaceutical products.

28. Method for operating a transfer system (10) for transporting pharmaceutical products, wherein the transfer system (10) comprises: a plurality of contact sections (12), each contact section being configured to come into contact with a pharmaceutical product in order to transfer it; a central area (11) on which the contact sections (12) are provided, the central area (11) being subdivided into at least one circular segment (13), the method comprising the following steps: Moving at least one circular segment (13) in a radial direction (R) of the central area (11) to provide access to pharmaceutical products transported by the transfer stem (10).

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