Roller device for metering purposes

Abstract

The invention relates to a roller device (100) for metering purposes in a metering assembly for metering a pharmaceutical product, wherein a metering roller (114) of the roller device (100) can be rotated about a rotational axis (122) and comprises a jacket (138), in which inlet openings (134) for the product are formed, and metering chambers (136), which are aligned with the inlet openings (134), for receiving the product; the metering roller (114) comprises at least one jacket part (126, 128), which forms the jacket (138) and at least partly encloses a receiving space (142), and at least one inner body (130, 132), which is provided in the receiving space (142), is formed separately from the at least one jacket part (126, 128), and is enclosed by the jacket (138); and the metering chambers (136) are formed in the at least one inner body (130, 132).

Description

[0001] 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0002] January 9, 2026

[0003] Roller device for dosing purposes

[0004] The present invention relates to a roller device for metering purposes in a metering arrangement for metering a pharmaceutical product, wherein a metering roller of the roller device can be driven to rotate about a rotary axis and comprises a shell in which inlet openings for the product are formed, as well as metering chambers aligned with the inlet openings for receiving the product.

[0005] A dosing unit with a roller assembly is used, for example, in a system for processing pharmaceutical containers. These containers are, for example, vials, which are filled with a product, particularly a powder, at the dosing unit. It is known to feed the powdered product from a feed container to the roller assembly. The product passes through the inlet openings in the housing into the dosing chambers. After the roller assembly rotates so that the dosing chambers are positioned above the openings of the containers, the product can be ejected from the dosing chambers, for example, by means of compressed air, and enters the containers. The containers are moved past the dosing unit, for example, by means of a transport device. The transport of the containers and the rotation of the dosing roller are usually timed.

[0006] It is understood that the roller assembly includes a drive unit to drive the metering roller in a rotating motion around the axis of rotation.

[0007] Furthermore, it is understood that the product, for example in powder form, not only enters the dosing chambers through the inlet openings, but is also conveyed out of the dosing chambers through the same inlet openings. The inlet openings are therefore also outlet openings.

[0008] DE 201 18915 U1 describes a device for metering and dispensing powdered filling material into containers, comprising a filling wheel that rotates intermittently around a horizontal axis.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a roller device of the type mentioned above, which enables simpler manufacturing and is preferably compact in design. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0010] January 9, 2026

[0011] - 2 -

[0012] This problem is solved in a generic roller device according to the invention by the fact that the metering roller comprises at least one shell part which forms the shell and at least partially encloses a receiving space, and at least one inner body arranged in the receiving space which is formed separately from the at least one shell part and is enclosed by the shell, wherein the metering chambers are formed in the at least one inner body.

[0013] In the roller device according to the invention, a metering roller is provided, comprising at least one outer shell and at least one inner body. The inner body can be arranged in the receiving space, which is at least partially enclosed by the outer shell. In particular, the outer shell can completely surround the inner body in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation. The inlet openings are formed in the shell, through which the product can enter the metering chambers in the inner body (and, conversely, be conveyed out of the metering chambers again).

[0014] The use of at least one outer shell and at least one inner body in the metering roller of the roller assembly allows, in particular, the optimization of both components with regard to a compact design and simple manufacturing of the metering roller. This preferably offers the possibility of weight reduction, which allows the moving masses and moments to be kept low and enables a high processing rate with the roller assembly. Furthermore, material can advantageously be saved, since, for example, the at least one inner body does not have to be formed from a solid material, which again enables weight savings.

[0015] It is particularly advantageous if at least one outer shell part and at least one inner body are made of different materials.

[0016] The at least one outer shell and the at least one inner body are preferably made of pharmaceutical-grade materials. Advantageously, this allows the metering roller to be CIP (Cleaning-in-Place) or SIP (Sterilization-in-Place) capable. The separate manufacturing of the at least one outer shell and the at least one inner body preferably offers the possibility of disassembling the metering roller of the roller assembly for cleaning purposes, in order to clean its components easily and thoroughly. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0017] January 9, 2026

[0018] - 3 - It is advantageous if at least one of the casing parts is made of a metal material, in particular stainless steel. For example, pharmaceutical-grade stainless steel of type 316L is used. The casing part is, for example, hardened at least on one outer circumferential surface and thus exhibits advantageous friction properties. This can prove advantageous if the roller assembly is used in combination with a container assembly from which the powder enters the metering chambers and which is in frictional contact with the rotating metering roller. Such a container assembly is described, for example, in the unpublished patent application DE 102025101 253.9 of January 15, 2025, by the same applicant.

[0019] The at least one shell part can be provided, for example, as a formed part or as a cast part.

[0020] The at least one inner body is preferably made of a plastic material, in particular PEEK (polyetheretherketone).

[0021] The at least one inner body can be provided, for example, as a milled part or as an injection-molded part.

[0022] For a structurally simple design, it is advantageous if at least one inner body is made in one piece and / or if at least one outer shell part is made in one piece. The one-piece (monolithic) design allows for cost-effective manufacturing and ease of handling.

[0023] The at least one inner body is advantageously connected to the at least one outer shell in a rotationally fixed manner. A drive unit, for example, sets the at least one outer shell into rotation about the axis of rotation, whereby the inner body rotates together with the outer shell due to the rotationally fixed connection.

[0024] It can be advantageous if the at least one inner body is arranged transversely and, in particular, perpendicular to the axis of rotation, in a form-fitting manner within the at least one outer shell part and rests radially against the inner side of the outer shell part. In this way, the inner body and the outer shell part assume a defined relative position.

[0025] To achieve the above advantage, it may be advantageous, for example, if an inner circumferential surface of the at least one shell part is connected to an outer circumferential surface of the at least-39542. BUS. P110PC

[0026] January 9, 2026

[0027] - 4 -then an inner body rests against the axis of rotation along its entire circumference. In this way, the inner body is fitted into the outer shell in a form-fitting manner.

[0028] It can be advantageous, for example, if the at least one outer shell section on an inner circumferential surface and the at least one inner body on an outer circumferential surface, with respect to a cross-section transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the axis of rotation, each have contours that deviate from a circle, wherein the at least one outer shell section and the at least one inner body each have, in particular, a polygonal or rounded polygonal contour. In this way, for example, a rotationally fixed coupling between the outer shell section and the inner body can be implemented simply. If, for example, the inner body is fitted into the outer shell section, with contours that deviate from a circle, the rotation of the outer shell section can be transferred to the inner body, or vice versa.In a cross-section transverse and, in particular, perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the contour has, for example, the form of a polygon or a rounded polygon, whereby, for example, planar sections of the inner body and the outer shell are connected to each other via rounded (e.g., arc-shaped) sections. The contour can, for example, be that of an n-edge, where n is equal to the number of metering chambers on the at least one inner body.

[0029] The outer circumferential surface of the at least one inner body may, for example, have a flattened area relative to the circular contour at those positions where a metering chamber is arranged on the at least one inner body. For instance, the inner body is flattened along the radial direction relative to the axis of rotation and the circular contour to form the aforementioned planar section. The flattened area is located in a region of the inner body where the metering chamber is situated. In this region, the outer shell, for example, has a section raised radially towards the axis of rotation relative to the circular contour, which lies flat against the inner body.

[0030] The at least one inner body can, for example, have a hub section through which a support element of the roller assembly passes, and a metering chamber section radially surrounding the hub section, with the metering chambers being formed within the metering chamber section. The inner body can, for example, be rotatably mounted via the hub section. The metering chambers are formed within the metering chamber section. A filter element, for example, can be located in each metering chamber. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0031] January 9, 2026

[0032] - 5 -arranged in a manner that can be selectively pressurized with either negative or positive pressure to draw the product, which is particularly powdery, into or expel it from the dosing chamber. The filter element can, for example, be part of a dosing piston, which is preferably adjustable within a respective dosing chamber to regulate the amount of product that can be taken up.

[0033] From the hub section to the metering section, the at least one inner body can have, in particular, a through-opening to apply overpressure or underpressure to the metering chamber from the side of the support part.

[0034] The metering chambers are preferably arranged at uniform angular intervals with respect to the circumferential direction around the axis of rotation.

[0035] It may be provided that the dosing chamber section is designed in a disc shape and, in particular, is a solid body.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, to save weight, the metering chamber section may advantageously comprise radially extending spoke sections extending from the hub section, each of which forms a metering chamber. Adjacent spoke sections are spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation. This spoke-section design allows for material savings on at least one inner body while still ensuring sufficient stability. The respective gap, for example, has the basic shape of a circular sector. In particular, the circular sector may have a bulge on its radial inner side with respect to the axis of rotation, in the area of ​​which adjusting elements of an adjustment unit for adjusting metering pistons may be positioned.

[0037] The at least one inner body can be designed in a disc shape, at least in the dosing chamber section.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one inner body may comprise two or more metering chamber sections that are axially spaced apart from one another. For example, it is provided—this will be discussed in more detail below—that the roller assembly on the outer shell has axially spaced inlet openings. Accordingly, each metering chamber section can be 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0039] January 9, 2026

[0040] - 6 - Metering chambers that are aligned with the axially spaced inlet openings. Two or more metering chamber sections can be connected to the same hub section.

[0041] The possibility of an adjustment unit for metering pistons has already been mentioned.

[0042] The at least one inner body can include or form a bearing section in which bearing openings are formed. The roller assembly includes an adjusting unit with adjusting elements rotatably mounted in the bearing openings about respective adjustment axes. Each adjusting element allows for the adjustment of a metering piston arranged in a metering chamber. By acting on the metering pistons, the size of the free areas of the metering chambers that can be filled with the product can be changed to meter the quantity of product. The metering pistons are adjusted via adjusting elements mounted on the bearing sections, which in particular run parallel to the axis of rotation and can be rotatable about respective adjustment axes. It is understood that a controllable drive unit for the adjusting unit may be provided. Alternatively or additionally, manual adjustment may be provided.

[0043] The adjustment unit can be designed such that all adjustment elements mounted on the bearing section are simultaneously set in rotation to adjust the dosage of all dosing chambers. For this purpose, the drive unit can, for example, act on a central drive element that is coupled to individual drive elements on the respective adjustment element.

[0044] The roller assembly may be designed to comprise two or more inner bodies arranged axially side by side. For example, each inner body is fitted into a corresponding outer shell, of which there may be two or more shells. Advantageously, the inner bodies are identical in design.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one casing part can comprise or form at least one end wall that limits the receiving space in the axial direction and in which a central through-opening is formed, through which a support element of the roller assembly is guided. This allows for a structurally simple design. The support element can, for example, be a shaft or a tube, wherein, for example, channels for pressurizing the metering chambers with negative or positive pressure are formed in the tube. This will be discussed in more detail below. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0046] January 9, 2026

[0047] - 7 -

[0048] The outer shell is preferably rotatably mounted on the supporting part. A separate bearing device may be provided.

[0049] Unless otherwise explained, "central" here refers to the axis of rotation.

[0050] For example, through-openings are formed in at least one end wall, with the roller assembly comprising an adjustment unit that has adjustment elements which extend through the through-openings and by means of which a respective metering piston arranged in a metering chamber can be adjusted. The adjustment unit has already been discussed above. The adjustment elements can, for example, extend through the end wall and have a drive element on their outer side, which is operatively connected to a central drive element that can be driven by the drive unit.

[0051] The at least one jacket part can preferably comprise or form a central sleeve through which the supporting part is preferably guided in a form-fitting manner.

[0052] The at least one shell part can comprise or form a central sleeve – in particular the sleeve mentioned above – which preferably engages in a form-fitting manner in a central through-opening of the at least one inner body or preferably extends through the through-opening in a form-fitting manner. In this way, for example, a form-fitting engagement between the inner body and the shell part can be ensured. For example, the sleeve engages in or extends through the hub section of the inner body.

[0053] The roller assembly can comprise two or more shell sections that are formed separately and joined axially to one another. For example, two shell sections are present, each open axially on the side facing the other shell section and forming or encompassing an end wall axially on the side facing away from the other shell section. The shell sections together form the shell.

[0054] Advantageously, the end edges of the casing parts facing their respective adjacent casing parts engage with each other in a form-fitting manner. For example, it may be provided that one casing part radially overhangs the other casing part in the area of ​​its end edges. The casing parts are advantageously gapless or essentially 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0055] January 9, 2026

[0056] - 8 -joined together without gaps, which preferably eliminates the need for a sealing element between the end faces.

[0057] The metering roller may preferably have inlet openings and metering chambers that are spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of the axis of rotation and are arranged in the same position in the axial direction.

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, the metering roller can, for example, include inlet openings and metering chambers that are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the axis of rotation and are arranged in the same position in the circumferential direction.

[0059] In the examples above, adjacent inlet openings and metering chambers are preferably spaced uniformly apart along the circumferential direction. The same applies to adjacent inlet openings and metering chambers in the axial direction.

[0060] The roller assembly can advantageously include a support element on which a component consisting of at least one outer shell and at least one inner body is rotatably mounted in a connected state, and which defines the axis of rotation. The at least one outer shell and the at least one inner body are connected to each other during the intended use of the roller assembly and form the component or ensemble. It is understood that the component may include further components of the roller assembly, for example, metering pistons and components of the adjustment unit, such as, in particular, the adjustment elements. The component is rotatably mounted on the support element, which is, for example, fixed to a support device. The support device may include support elements on which the support element is held, whereby a stationary, non-rotating mounting may be provided.The drive unit of the roller assembly, for example, acts on a shell part to rotate the assembly.

[0061] The support element can be designed as a tube in which channels are formed. These channels are operatively connected, for example, to a unit of the roller assembly. For this purpose, the roller assembly can have connecting elements and / or pressure lines (especially hoses). This allows the channels to be pressurized either with negative or positive pressure. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0062] January 9, 2026

[0063] - 9 - Depending on the rotational position of the assembly, the channels of the pipe are in flow communication with the metering chambers via ventilation openings formed on an outer circumferential surface of the pipe.

[0064] The roller assembly preferably includes a ventilation unit through which the dosing chambers can be selectively pressurized with either negative or positive pressure via the channels. Negative pressure, for example, allows the product to be drawn into the dosing chambers through the inlet openings and / or held there during rotation of the dosing roller. Positive pressure allows the product to be expelled from the dosing chambers to fill the pharmaceutical containers. The ventilation unit includes, for example, the aforementioned assembly, connecting elements, pressure lines, valves, and the like.

[0065] The channels can lead directly or indirectly into the metering chambers. For example, the outlet openings may be aligned with through-openings on the sleeve of the casing, which in turn align with the metering chambers. With a suitable rotational position of the assembly, a flow connection exists from the channels, through the ventilation openings and the through-openings, into the metering chambers.

[0066] The channels preferably run axially or parallel to the axis in the pipe and are radially angled axially at the level of the metering chambers.

[0067] The tube can have at least one groove in its outer circumferential surface, with one of the channels opening via the ventilation opening into the at least one groove extending circumferentially around the axis of rotation. Depending on the rotational position of the assembly, the groove is in flow communication with two or more metering chambers. Such an arrangement is provided, for example, to simultaneously apply negative pressure to two or more (e.g., three) metering chambers in order to retain the product contained therein during the rotation of the metering roller.

[0068] The following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, in conjunction with the drawing, serves to explain the invention in more detail. The drawing shows:

[0069] Figure 1: a schematic perspective representation of the invention

[0070] Roller assembly; 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0071] January 9, 2026

[0072] - 10-

[0073] Figure 2: another perspective view of the roller assembly from Figure 1 in a partial view;

[0074] Figure 3: an exploded view of a metering roller of the roller assembly from Figure 1 in a partial view;

[0075] Figure 4: a longitudinal sectional view of the metering roller from Figure 3 with further components of the roller assembly (adjustment unit and metering piston);

[0076] Figure 5: a sectional view along line 5-5 in Figure 4;

[0077] Figure 6: a sectional view along line 6-6 in Figure 4;

[0078] Figure 7: a perspective view of a support part of the roller assembly designed as a tube; and

[0079] Figure 8: a top view of the roller assembly with the viewing direction according to the arrow "8" in Figure 2.

[0080] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an advantageous embodiment of the roller assembly according to the invention, designated by reference numeral 100. The roller assembly 100 is used in a metering arrangement for dispensing a pharmaceutical product, particularly a powdered one, wherein the metering arrangement is comprised of a system for processing the containers.

[0081] The product can be picked up via the roller device and subsequently dispensed into the containers to be filled with the product. The product is previously stored, for example, in a container device as described in patent application DE 102025101 253.9 dated January 15, 2025, by the same applicant. The content of this patent application is fully incorporated into the present disclosure.

[0082] The roller assembly 100 is, for example, arranged on a transport device 102 in its intended use, with which the containers 104 are transported past the roller assembly 100. Here, vials 106 are shown as exemplary containers 104. The transport device 102 is usually moved in a timed manner, and the roller assembly 100 is also moved in a timed manner. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0083] January 9, 2026

[0084] - 11 -direction 100 operates in a timed manner, whereby the containers 104, each arranged in the target position, are filled with the product.

[0085] The roller assembly 100 comprises a support structure 108, which in this case has support elements 110. The support elements 110 are arranged on a mounting surface 112, for example a frame, of the system for processing the containers 104.

[0086] A metering roller 114 of the roller assembly 100 is held by the support device 108. For this purpose, a support element 118 designed as a tube 116 is provided, which can, for example, be part of the metering roller 114.

[0087] The pipe 116 is fixed in place on one of the support elements 110 and, in particular, secured against rotation. The pipe 116 extends transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to a transport direction 120 of the transport device 102 and extends over the transport device 102.

[0088] On the far side of the transport device 102, the pipe 116 is fixed to another of the support elements 110 (not shown).

[0089] The tube 116 defines a rotation axis 122. The metering roller 114 extends in the axial direction (in this case with respect to the rotation axis 122) above the transport device 102 and is rotatable about the rotation axis 122 as explained below.

[0090] As can be seen particularly from Figures 3 to 6, the metering roller 114 comprises a component unit 124 that can advantageously be pre-assembled. The component unit 124 comprises at least one outer shell and at least one inner body. In the present case, two outer shells 126, 128 and two inner bodies 130, 132 are provided.

[0091] The inner bodies 130 and 132 are identically designed, therefore only the inner body 130 will be discussed below. The outer parts 126 and 128 are largely identically designed. Where this is helpful for understanding the present invention, their differences will be discussed below, if necessary.

[0092] As further shown in the drawing, the metering roller 114 comprises inlet openings 134 – which are also outlet openings – for the product to be metered, as well as metering chambers 136 in which the product is temporarily stored. The Ein-39542. BUS. P110PC

[0093] January 9, 2026

[0094] - 12 -openings 134 are formed on a shell 138, which is formed by the shell parts 126. The metering chambers are formed in the inner bodies 130, 132.

[0095] The roller assembly 100 is designed with four positions. This means that four of the metering chambers 136 can be filled simultaneously in each work cycle. As a result, four of the containers 104 can be filled with the product simultaneously in each work cycle.

[0096] To achieve multi-digitity, the inlet openings 134 and the metering chambers 136 are each present four times in the axial direction, with adjacent inlet openings 134 and adjacent metering chambers 136 being arranged equidistantly to each other.

[0097] In the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation 122, several inlet openings 134 and several metering chambers 136 are located at the same axial position, each spaced apart from the others. Adjacent inlet openings 134 and metering chambers 136 are arranged equidistantly, i.e., in this case with respect to angular distances around the axis of rotation 122. In the present embodiment, eight inlet openings 134 and metering chambers 136 are arranged at each axial position.

[0098] Each metering chamber 136 is assigned an inlet opening 134, resulting in a total of 32 inlet openings 134 and 32 metering chambers 136. With regard to their function, the openings 134 and the chambers 136 are identically designed, so that more than one inlet opening 134 and one metering chamber 136 are only discussed insofar as this might be helpful for understanding the invention.

[0099] It is understood that the number of entry openings 134 and the number of dosing chambers 136 are exemplary.

[0100] In each metering chamber 136, the metering roller 114 comprises a metering piston 140.

[0101] As can be seen, for example, in Figure 3, the outer shell 126 is cylindrical in shape, in particular a vertical circular cylinder. The inlet openings 134 are formed in the outer shell 138. The outer shell 138 encloses a receiving chamber 142 in which one of the inner bodies 130, 132 is arranged. The inner body 130, 132 is enclosed by the outer shell 138. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0102] January 9, 2026

[0103] - 13- On the side facing the casing part 128, the casing part 126 has an end edge 144. The two casing parts 126, 128 are positively connected to each other at their respective end edges 144. The end edge 144 of the casing part 128 overlaps the end edge 144 of the casing part 126 radially on the outside. In this way, the two casing parts 126, 128 form a closed housing 146 for the metering roller 114.

[0104] The shell parts 126, 128 are essentially joined together without gaps, so that a sealing element in the area of ​​the end faces 144 can be omitted.

[0105] On the side facing away from the outer shell part 128, the outer shell part 126 comprises an end wall 148. A central through-opening 150 is formed in the end wall 148. The through-opening 150 is arranged on a central sleeve 152 formed by the outer shell part 126. The sleeve 152 extends axially from the end wall 148 towards the outer shell part 128, in this example approximately to the level of the end edge 144. In this case, the sleeves 152 of the two outer shell parts 126 do not contact each other. However, this could be the case.

[0106] The tube 116 is positively guided through the sleeves 152. The assembly 124 is rotatably mounted on the tube 116 about the axis of rotation 122. In the present example, no separate bearing device is provided. However, this could be the case in a different embodiment than the one described here.

[0107] For the rotation of the metering roller 114, the roller assembly 100 includes a drive unit 154. In this embodiment, the drive unit drives a drive element 156, which is rotatable about the axis of rotation 122 between two of the support elements 110. The drive element 156 is rotated via a drive body 158, which in this embodiment is a belt.

[0108] The drive element 156 engages with the casing part 126 via a drive sleeve 160 (Figure 4), which surrounds the tube 116. Corresponding engagement elements are designed, for example, as positive locking elements.

[0109] The drive unit 154 can be controlled by a control unit 162 of the roller assembly 100. Under control by the control unit 162, the metering roller 114 rotates in a timed manner around the axis of rotation 122. An arrow 164 indicates the direction of rotation during normal use. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0110] January 9, 2026

[0111] - 14 -

[0112] Furthermore, through-openings 166 are formed in the end wall 148. In total, there are eight through-openings, spaced apart from each other at equal angular intervals relative to the axis of rotation 122. The through-openings 166 are arranged at a distance from the axis of rotation. The number of through-openings 166 is determined by the number of metering chambers 136 and metering pistons 140.

[0113] As can be seen particularly from Figures 3 to 6, a contour 168 of the shell part 126 deviates from a circular contour on an inner circumferential surface 170. In those areas, with respect to the circumferential direction about the axis of rotation 122, where inlet openings 134 are arranged, the shell part 126 has bulges 172 extending radially inwards. In the area of ​​the bulges 172, the inner circumferential surface 170 is, for example, planar.

[0114] In this way, the outer shell part 126 has a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of rotation 122 approximately the contour 168 in the form of a polygon, in particular a rounded polygon, as can be clearly seen, for example, in Figure 3.

[0115] The inner body 130 comprises a hub section 174 and at least one metering chamber section 176. Two metering chamber sections 176 are provided, which are identically designed and axially separated from each other, each being connected to the hub section 174. Furthermore, the inner body 130 comprises a bearing section 178.

[0116] The hub section 174 is cylindrical, specifically in the form of a vertical circular cylinder. In this case, the hub section 174 is dimensioned such that the inner body 130 can be placed onto the sleeve 152. The sleeve 152 engages in a through-opening of the hub section 174, which extends axially essentially as far as the sleeve 152.

[0117] In this case, the sleeve 152 engages positively in the hub section 174. The inner body 130 is positively fitted onto the sleeve 152.

[0118] Each dosing chamber section 176 is disk-shaped and oriented in a plane transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the axis of rotation 122. In the present case, the dosing chamber section 176 is not formed as a solid body. Instead, it extends 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0119] January 9, 2026

[0120] - 15 - Starting from the hub section 174, spoke sections 180 are evenly spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation 122. A metering chamber 136 is formed on each spoke section 180. Radially on the outside, the spoke sections 180 are connected to each other via a connecting section 182, which forms an outer circumferential surface 184 of the inner body 130.

[0121] The outer circumferential surface 184 is shaped correspondingly to the inner circumferential surface 170. In particular, the inner body 130 has a contour 186 that deviates from a circular contour. In areas where the metering chambers 136 are arranged, the connecting area 182 is flattened relative to the circular contour. A corresponding flattening 188 is planar and forms a corresponding bulge 172. The flattened areas are connected to each other via arcuate areas 190 in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation 122.

[0122] The inner body 130 thus has a contour 186 in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of rotation 122, as does the outer shell part 126, which corresponds to a rounded polygon.

[0123] In the radial direction, the inner body 130 is dimensioned such that it is arranged transversely and, in particular, perpendicularly to the axis of rotation 122 in a form-fitting manner within the outer shell part 126. The inner circumferential surface 170 and the outer circumferential surface 184 are in contact with each other along the entire circumference.

[0124] In this way, a connection between the outer shell 126 and the inner body 130 can be achieved, as well as a rotationally fixed coupling between these two components. When the outer shell 126 is driven, the inner body 130 also rotates. Due to the rotationally fixed coupling, the positions of the inlet openings 134 and the metering chambers 136 remain constant regardless of the rotational position of the assembly 124.

[0125] The bearing section 178 is arranged on the side of the inner body 130 facing away from the end wall 148. In this case, the bearing section 178 is designed in a disc shape and has bearing openings 192. The bearing openings 192 are aligned with the through-openings 166 of the end wall 148.

[0126] Adjacent spoke areas 180 are separated from each other by a gap 194. As can be seen, for example, in Figures 5 and 6, the gap 194 has an approximately circular sector-shaped form. Radially on the inside is an Aus-39542. BUS. P110PC

[0127] January 9, 2026

[0128] - 16 -bulge 196 of the space 194 in the area of ​​a perforation 198 of the respective spoke area 180 is present. The bulge 196 is aligned with a respective bearing opening 192 and a respective through-opening 166.

[0129] In the inner body 130, a total of 16 metering chambers 136 are formed in the present embodiment, with each metering chamber section 176 comprising eight metering chambers 136. The outer shell 126 forms a total of 16 inlet openings 134.

[0130] The same applies to the inner body 132 and the outer shell part 128. These components also engage with each other in a form-fitting manner, via corresponding contours in the form of rounded polygons.

[0131] It should also be mentioned that the inner bodies 130, 132 are arranged axially in opposite orientations within the assembly 124. The bearing sections 178 face each other (Figures 3 and 4).

[0132] The metering roller 114 has a compact design that is easy to manufacture and has a low weight. For this purpose, the outer parts 126, 128 are made of a metal material, in particular a pharmaceutical-grade metal such as 316L stainless steel. An outer surface of the outer shell 138 is preferably hardened to achieve improved friction properties. Despite being made of metal, the weight of the outer parts 126, 128 can be kept relatively low because they only comprise the outer shell 138, the end wall 148, and the sleeve 152.

[0133] To save weight, the inner bodies 130, 132 are made of a plastic material, in particular PEEK. Further weight savings can be achieved by not making the inner bodies 130, 132 from a solid material, but instead comprising spoke sections 180 with intervening spaces 194. Spaces free of material are also present between the metering chamber sections 176, which results in weight savings.

[0134] It can be advantageously provided that the assembly 124 can be disassembled for cleaning purposes. Both the outer casing parts 126, 128 and the inner bodies 130, 132 exhibit preferred cleaning properties. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0135] January 9, 2026

[0136] - 17 -llm To selectively apply negative or positive pressure to the metering chambers 136, the roller assembly 100 comprises a ventilation unit 200 and channels 202 formed in the pipe 116. The ventilation unit 200 comprises a unit 204, which can be controlled by the control unit 162, to selectively provide either negative or positive pressure.

[0137] Pressure lines 206, designed, for example, as hoses, are connected to the unit 204. The pressure lines are connected to the channels 202 via connection elements 208. In this illustration, the connection elements 208, as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 8, are only shown on one side of the roller assembly 100, whereas the opposite end of the roller assembly 100 provides a view of the end face of the pipe 116 (Figure 1). It is understood that this serves to illustrate the invention and that, in a modified version of the roller assembly 100, lines 206 can also be connected to the channels 202 via connection elements 208 at the latter end.

[0138] As a result of the design of the inner bodies 130, 132, the channels 202 are formed and arranged such that the metering chambers 136 of each inner body 130, 132 are fluidically connected to channels 202 whose opposite sides extend into the tube 116 (Figure 4). Thus, the channels 202 for supplying the inner body 130 extend into the tube 116 from the side of the drive body 158, and the channels 202 for supplying the inner body 132 extend into the tube 116 from the side opposite the drive body 158. Functionally, the channels 202 are identically designed, with the proviso that they extend and are arranged symmetrically to each other with respect to a central transverse plane of the assembly 124.

[0139] As can be seen in particular from Figures 3 to 6, eight channels 202 run from each side in the pipe 116. The respective channels 202 initially run parallel to the axis of rotation 122 and then in a radial direction. Ventilation openings 212 are formed on an outer circumferential surface 210 of the pipe 116, through which the channels 202 open.

[0140] The ventilation openings 212 are assigned through-holes in the sleeves 152, which are aligned with the metering chambers 136.

[0141] This results in the channels 202 being in flow communication with different metering chambers 136, depending on the rotational position of the metering roller 114. Depending on the cycle time of the aeration unit 200, the metering chambers 136 can be selectively connected to 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0142] January 9, 2026

[0143] - 18 - Negative pressure is applied for suction and holding of the product, or positive pressure is applied for ejection of the product and, if necessary, for cleaning the dosing chambers 136.

[0144] As explained, the metering roller 114 has eight metering chambers 136 at each of four axially spaced positions, distributed around the axis of rotation 122. As can be seen particularly from Figures 4 to 6, when aligned with the ventilation openings 212, six of these eight metering chambers 136 are in flow communication with the channels 202. Two of the metering chambers 136, shown in the present example at the right and upper right in Figures 5 and 6, are not in flow communication with any of the channels 202 in this rotational position.

[0145] In the rotational position shown, which corresponds to a snapshot of operation, three metering chambers 136, each with a channel 202, are in flow communication. These are the metering chambers 136 at the top, bottom, and bottom right in Figures 5 and 6.

[0146] In the rotational position shown, three further metering chambers 136 are connected to a channel 202 via a flow path. This is achieved by the corresponding channel 202 opening via the ventilation opening 212 into a groove 216 extending circumferentially around the axis of rotation 122 (Figures 5 to 7). The groove is dimensioned to extend over an angular range of approximately 100° to 110°, so that in the rotational position shown, the groove 216 aligns with three through-openings 214. In this way, the three metering chambers 136 can be supplied via only one channel 202.

[0147] In the operation of the roller assembly 100, for example, the upward-facing metering chamber 136 is pressurized to draw in the product. The three metering chambers 136 shown at the top left, left, and bottom left are preferably pressurized to retain the product during the rotation of the metering roller 114. The downward-facing metering chamber 136 is pressurized to expel the product. The downward-facing metering chamber can be pressurized, for example, for cleaning purposes. The metering chambers facing right and top right are neither pressurized nor pressurized.

[0148] As previously explained, the product dosage can be varied with the roller unit 100. For this purpose, the roller unit 100 includes at least one 39542. BUS. P110PC.

[0149] January 9, 2026

[0150] - 19 - Adjustment unit 218. The position of the metering pistons 140 in the metering chambers 136 can be changed via the adjustment unit 218. This reduces or increases the free area of ​​the metering chambers 136 that can be occupied by the product, so that different quantities of the product can be filled.

[0151] Figures 1 and 2 show two different versions of the adjusting unit 218 on opposite sides of the metering roller 114. It is understood that identical versions can be present on both sides of the metering roller 114, namely both the first version and the second version described below. The drawing and subsequent explanation serve only to illustrate the different versions of the adjusting unit 218.

[0152] Regardless of the specific configuration used, the respective adjusting unit 218 is designed to have adjusting elements 220. The adjusting elements 220 are designed as shafts that are mounted on bearing sections 178 and rotate about adjusting axes 222, engaging in the bearing openings 192. Furthermore, the adjusting elements 220 extend through the through-openings 166 of the end wall 148.

[0153] Eight adjusting elements 220 are arranged on each inner body 130, 132, engaging the metering roller 114 from the same side. Similar to the actuation of the metering chambers 136 via the channels 202, half of the metering pistons 140 are actuated by one of the two opposing sides of the metering roller 114.

[0154] Each adjusting element 220 can engage with two metering pistons 140 arranged axially one behind the other. For this purpose, for example, gears 224 are arranged on the adjusting elements 220, which engage with racks on the metering pistons 140. A different form of force transmission, for example solely by friction, is conceivable.

[0155] When the corresponding adjusting element 220 is turned, the metering pistons 140 are moved radially outwards or radially inwards, depending on the direction of rotation, in order to decrease or increase the metering.

[0156] The adjusting elements 220 extend through the gaps 194 and are arranged in the area of ​​the bulges 196. The gears 224 extend through the openings 198 to engage with the metering pistons 140. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0157] January 9, 2026

[0158] - 20 -

[0159] In the first embodiment of the adjusting unit 218, shown at the front in Figure 2, the adjusting elements 220 each have drive elements 226 on their outer sides (in this case, outside the receiving space 142 and on the end wall 148), designed as gears 228. The drive elements 226 engage with a central drive element 230, designed as an externally toothed gear 232. When the gear 232 is rotated, all adjusting elements 220 are rotated equally about the adjustment axes 222, so that in this example a total of 16 metering pistons 140 can be adjusted simultaneously.

[0160] The gear 232 is coupled to a drive element 234, which is operatively connected to a drive unit 236 via a drive body 237 in the form of a belt. The drive unit 236 is operatively connected to the control unit 162.

[0161] Functionally, the second embodiment of the adjusting unit 218 is identical to the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, shown at the front in Figure 1, the drive elements 226 are designed as cones 238 in paired arrangements, which can be driven by friction. The drive element 230 is a friction wheel 240. The friction wheel can be driven by a drive element 242, which in turn is operatively connected to a drive unit 244. When the friction wheel 240 rotates, the cones 238, and thus the adjusting elements 220, are rotated about the adjusting axes 222 due to friction. The drive unit 244 is operatively connected to the control unit 162. 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0162] January 9, 2026

[0163] - 21 - List of reference symbols

[0164] 100 roller assembly

[0165] 102 transport equipment

[0166] 104 containers

[0167] 106 vials

[0168] 108 Support device

[0169] 110 support element

[0170] 112 m² installation area

[0171] 114 Metering roller

[0172] 116 pipe

[0173] 118 Supporting part

[0174] 120 Transport direction

[0175] 122 axis of rotation

[0176] 124 building units

[0177] 126 Coat section

[0178] 128 Coat section

[0179] 130 inner bodies

[0180] 132 inner bodies

[0181] 134 Entrance opening

[0182] 136 Dosing chamber

[0183] 138 coat

[0184] 140 metering pistons

[0185] 142 Recording Room

[0186] 144 Front edge

[0187] 146 cases

[0188] 148 Front wall

[0189] 150 Through opening

[0190] 152 Sleeve

[0191] 154 Drive unit

[0192] 156 Drive element

[0193] 158 drive units

[0194] 160 drive sleeve

[0195] 162 Control unit

[0196] 164 Arrow

[0197] 166 Passage opening 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0198] January 9, 2026

[0199] - 22 - 168 contour

[0200] 170 internal perimeter area

[0201] 172 Bulging

[0202] 174 Hub section

[0203] 176 Dosing chamber section

[0204] 178 Storage section

[0205] 180 spoke area

[0206] 182 Connection area

[0207] 184 external perimeter area

[0208] 186 contour

[0209] 188 Flattening

[0210] 190 arc-shaped area

[0211] 192 Warehouse opening

[0212] 194 spaces

[0213] 196 Bulging

[0214] 198 breaches

[0215] 200 ventilation units

[0216] Channel 202

[0217] 204 aggregate

[0218] 206 Pressure line

[0219] 208 Connection element

[0220] 210 external perimeter area

[0221] 212 Ventilation opening

[0222] 214 Passage opening

[0223] 216 Nut

[0224] 218 Adjustment unit

[0225] 220 Adjustment element

[0226] 222 Adjustment axis

[0227] 224 gear

[0228] 226 Drive element

[0229] 228 gear

[0230] 230 drive element

[0231] 232 gear

[0232] 234 Drive element

[0233] 236 Drive unit

[0234] 237 Drive unit 39542. BUS. P110PC

[0235] January 9, 2026

[0236] - 23 - 238 cone

[0237] 240 friction wheel

[0238] 242 Drive element

[0239] 244 Drive unit

Claims

39542. BUS. P110PC January 9, 2026 - 24 - PATENT CLAIMS 1. Roller device (100) for metering purposes in a metering arrangement for metering a pharmaceutical product, wherein a metering roller (114) of the roller device (100) is rotatable about a rotary axis (122) and comprises a jacket (138) in which inlet openings (134) for the product are formed, as well as metering chambers (136) aligned with the inlet openings (134) for receiving the product, characterized by the fact that the metering roller (114) comprises at least one jacket part (126, 128) which forms the jacket (138) and at least partially encloses a receiving space (142), and at least one inner body (130, 132) arranged in the receiving space (142), which is formed separately from the at least one jacket part (126, 128) and is enclosed by the jacket (138), wherein the metering chambers (136) are formed in the at least one inner body (130, 132).

2. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that that at least one shell part (126, 128) and at least one inner body (130, 132) are made of different materials.

3. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that that at least one outer shell part (126, 128) is made of a metal material, in particular stainless steel, and / or that at least one inner body (130, 132) is made of a plastic material, in particular PEEK.

4. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the at least one inner body (130, 132) is connected to the at least one outer shell part (126, 128) in a rotationally fixed manner.

5. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the at least one inner body (130, 132) transverse and in particular perpendicular to the 39542. BUS. P110PC January 9, 2026 - 25 - The axis of rotation (122) is arranged in a form-fitting manner within the at least one shell part (126, 128) and rests radially on the inside of the shell part (126, 128).

6. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that an inner circumferential surface (170) of the at least one shell part (126, 128) is in contact with an outer circumferential surface (184) of the at least one inner body (130, 132) along the entire circumference around the axis of rotation (122).

7. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the at least one lateral part (126, 128) on an inner circumferential surface (170) and the at least one inner body (130, 132) on an outer circumferential surface (184) each have contours (168, 186) that deviate from a circular line, wherein the at least one lateral part (126, 128) and the at least one inner body (130, 132) in particular each have a contour (168, 186) of a polygon or a rounded polygon.

8. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that a flattening (188) with respect to the circle is present on the outer circumferential surface (184) of the at least one inner body (130, 132) at those positions where a metering chamber (136) is arranged on the at least one inner body (130, 132).

9. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the at least one inner body (130, 132) having a hub section (174) through which a support part (118) of the roller assembly (100) passes, and a metering chamber section (176) radially surrounding the hub section (174) on the outside, wherein the metering chambers (136) are formed in the metering chamber section (176).

10. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that The metering chamber section (176) extends radially from the hub section (174) and comprises spoke areas (180), each containing a metering chamber. 39542. BUS. P110PC January 9, 2026 - 26 - (136) is formed, wherein adjacent spoke areas (180) are spaced apart from each other by a gap (194) in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (122).

11. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by the fact that at least one inner body (130, 132) is designed in a disc shape at least at the metering chamber section (176).

12. Roller assembly (100) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by the fact that comprising at least one inner body (130, 132) comprising two or more metering chamber sections (176) which are axially spaced apart from each other.

13. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the at least one inner body (130, 132) comprises or forms a bearing section (178) in which bearing openings (192) are formed, and the roller assembly (100) comprises an adjusting unit (218) which has adjusting elements (220) which are rotatably mounted in the bearing openings (192) about respective adjusting axes (222), wherein a respective metering piston (140) arranged in a metering chamber (136) is adjustable via a respective adjusting element (220).

14. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the roller assembly (100) comprises two or more inner bodies (130, 132) which are arranged axially next to each other.

15. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that that at least one inner body (130, 132) is designed in one piece and / or that at least one shell part (126, 128) is designed in one piece.

16. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that which includes at least one shell part (126, 128) and at least one end wall (148) 39542. BUS. P110PC January 9, 2026 - 27 - or forms a receiving space (142) in the axial direction, and in which a central through-opening (150) is formed through which a support part (118) of the roller assembly (100) is passed.

17. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 16, characterized by the fact that in which at least one end wall (148) through-openings (166) are formed and that the roller assembly (100) comprises an adjusting unit (218) which has adjusting elements (220) which are passed through the through-openings (150, 166, 214) and via which a respective metering piston (140) arranged in a metering chamber (136) is adjustable.

18. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 16 or 17, characterized by the fact that the at least one jacket part (126, 128) comprises or forms a central sleeve (152) through which the support part (118) is preferably guided in a form-fitting manner.

19. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the at least one jacket part (126, 128) comprises or forms a central sleeve (152) which preferably engages in a form-fitting manner in a central through-opening of the at least one inner body (130, 132) or which preferably extends through the through-opening in a form-fitting manner.

20. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the roller assembly (100) comprises two or more shell parts (126, 128) which are formed separately from each other and are joined axially to each other.

21. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 20, characterized by the fact that The end faces (144) of the shell parts (126, 128), which face the respective adjacent shell part (126, 128), engage with each other in a form-fitting manner. 39542. BUS. P110PC January 9, 2026 - 28 - 22. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the metering roller (114) comprises at least one of the following: Inlet openings (134) and metering chambers (136) which are spaced apart from each other along a circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (122) and are arranged in the same position in the axial direction; Inlet openings (134) and metering chambers (136) which are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the axis of rotation (122) and are arranged in the same position in the circumferential direction.

23. Roller assembly (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the roller assembly (100) comprises a support part (118) on which a structural unit (124) consisting of at least one outer shell part (126, 128) and at least one inner body (130, 132) is rotatably mounted in a connected state and which defines the axis of rotation (122).

24. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 23, characterized by the fact that the supporting part (118) is designed as a tube (116) in which channels (202) are formed which, depending on a rotational position of the assembly (124), are in flow communication with the metering chambers (136) via ventilation openings (212) formed on an outer circumferential surface of the tube (116), and that the roller assembly (100) includes a ventilation unit (200) through which the metering chambers (136) can be selectively pressurized with either negative pressure or positive pressure through the channels (202).

25. Roller assembly (100) according to claim 24, characterized by the fact that at least one groove (216) is formed in the outer circumferential surface of the pipe (116), wherein one of the channels (202) opens via the ventilation opening (212) into the at least one groove (216) extending in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation (122), which, depending on the rotational position of the assembly (124), is in flow communication with two or more metering chambers (136).

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