System and method for producing pharmaceutical objects via 3D printing
阅读说明：本技术 用于经由3d打印生产药物对象的系统和方法 (System and method for producing pharmaceutical objects via 3D printing ) 是由 A·弗里德里科斯 K·西奥多索普洛斯 A-P·海因策 于 2018-05-07 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明涉及一种用于经由3D打印来生产诸如片剂、颗粒剂和胶囊的药物对象的系统。该系统包括：3D打印机(2),该3D打印机(2)具有能够在一个或多个方向中移动的机械系统(3)；至少一个打印头(5),该打印头(5)具有喷嘴(37),该喷嘴(37)能够通过机械系统(3)和承载打印基座(6)的基座系统(4)移动,该打印基座(6)用于接纳由打印头(5)施加的准备好的混合物(27)。该系统包括用于保持药筒(28)的至少一个托架(35)。打印可以在基座(6)上的格式化的打印位置(49)上进行。本发明进一步涉及一种用于生产药物对象的方法,包括以下步骤：在至少一个药筒中提供至少一种药物物质,将药筒放置在托架中,在药筒和打印头之间建立流体连接,使得药物物质能够通过打印头喷嘴离开打印头,根据3D打印程序移动打印头喷嘴,以及将药物物质分配到打印基座。(The present invention relates to a system for producing pharmaceutical objects such as tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing. The system comprises: a 3D printer (2), the 3D printer (2) having a mechanical system (3) movable in one or more directions; at least one print head (5), the print head (5) having a nozzle (37), the nozzle (37) being movable by a mechanical system (3) and a base system (4) carrying a printing base (6), the printing base (6) being intended to receive a prepared mixture (27) applied by the print head (5). The system comprises at least one carrier (35) for holding a cartridge (28). Printing may be performed at a formatted print position (49) on the base (6). The invention further relates to a method for producing a pharmaceutical object, comprising the steps of: providing at least one drug substance in at least one cartridge, placing the cartridge in a carriage, establishing a fluid connection between the cartridge and a print head such that the drug substance can leave the print head through print head nozzles, moving the print head nozzles according to a 3D printing program, and dispensing the drug substance to a printing base.)
1. A system for producing pharmaceutical objects, such as tablets, granules and capsules, via 3D printing, comprising a 3D printer (2), the 3D printer (2) having a mechanical system (3) movable in one or more directions, at least one printing head (5), the printing head (5) having a nozzle (37), the nozzle (37) being movable by the mechanical system (3) and a base system (4) carrying a printing base (6), the printing base (6) being intended to receive a prepared mixture (27) applied by the printing head (5), wherein the system comprises at least one carriage (35) for holding a cartridge (28).
2. System according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a feed line (30) for establishing a fluid connection between the carriage (35) and the printhead (5).
3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the system comprises a cassette unit (63) with at least one carriage (35), preferably a plurality of carriages (35), in particular the cassette unit (63) is movable such that the carriage (35) can perform a movement.
4. System according to claim 3, wherein the cassette unit (63) comprises an actuator (64), in particular a servo motor, a pneumatic drive, a hydraulic drive, a chain drive or a magnetic drive.
5. System according to claims 1 to 4, wherein the system comprises at least one movable push rod, preferably attached to the carrier (35), for expelling a cartridge (28).
6. System according to claims 1 to 5, wherein the system comprises an opening device, preferably connected with the carrier (35), for opening a cartridge (28), in particular a needle or cap remover, and/or a closing device, preferably connected with the carrier (35), for closing a cartridge (28).
7. System according to claims 1 to 6, wherein the system comprises a reading unit (66), the reading unit (66) preferably being connected with the carrier (35) for identifying an identification mark on a cartridge (28).
8. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the print head (5) is temperature controlled, in particular the print head (5) comprises a print head body (38) with recesses, fins or channels for guiding a tempering agent.
9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the print head (5) comprises a print head body (38, 42) having an opening for receiving the fluid substance from a cartridge, which cartridge is in particular connectable to a feed line (3).
10. System according to claim 9, wherein the print head (5) comprises a stirring and/or expelling tool (47), in particular a worm, arranged in the print head body (38, 42).
11. System according to claim 10, wherein the stirring tool (47) is at least partially collapsible, in particular the stirring tool (47) comprises a collapsible head (48).
12. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises an energy emitter (45), the energy emitter (45) being linked to the print head (5), in particular a photo-polymer headlight or an infrared emitter or a liquid nitrogen spray nozzle or a compressed air nozzle or a vapour nozzle.
13. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the print head (5) comprises a plurality of nozzles (37).
14. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a cleaning unit (67) for cleaning the print head and/or cartridge, in particular a washing tank (22) and/or a washing opening (23) connectable to a cleaning fluid reservoir (24) and/or a cleaning fluid filtration system (25).
15. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a temperature control system (68) for adjusting the temperature of the printing base (6).
16. System according to claim 15, wherein the base system (4) comprises an air duct (53) and/or a channel (55) for guiding a tempering agent.
17. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a printing base (6), the printing base (6) comprising a formatted printing position (49), in particular a convex recess, for shaping the pharmaceutical object.
18. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a printing base (6), the printing base (6) comprising a thermal conductor, in particular arranged on a side opposite to the side having the formatted printing positions (49).
19. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a printing base (6) having a coating, in particular a ceramic glaze coating.
20. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base system comprises an object remover, in particular a movable extraction pin (56) or a gas nozzle connectable to a formatted printing position (49) of the printing base (6).
21. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base system (4) comprises a base holder (57) for receiving a printing base (6).
22. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises a chamber (7), in particular a chamber (7) with a door (8), for establishing a controlled atmosphere with at least one of:
-a vacuum system with a vacuum pump (20),
-an air-conditioning system for conditioning air,
-an air filter (13),
-a ventilation duct (12),
-an air drying system (17), and
-an activated carbon filter (19).
23. Method for producing pharmaceutical objects such as tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing, in particular with a system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of:
-providing at least one drug substance in at least one cartridge,
-placing the cartridge in a holder,
-establishing a fluid connection between a cartridge and a print head such that the drug substance can leave the print head through the print head nozzles,
-moving the print head nozzles and dispensing the drug substance to the print base according to a 3D printing program.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the cartridge is transferred to and moved with the print head.
25. Method according to claim 23, wherein a quantity of at least one drug substance is dosed from the cartridge to the print head and the substance is stirred in the print head, in particular a plurality of drug substances is mixed.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein a plurality of cartridges are arranged in a cassette, each cartridge containing a different drug substance, and the cassette is moved to a position relative to the print head wherein a selected cartridge is in fluid communication with the print head and an amount of the respective drug substance is administered into the print head to prepare a drug mixture according to a drug formulation.
27. The method according to any one of claims 23-26, wherein a printing base (6) with formatted printing positions is applied to the printing base system (4).
28. The method according to any of claims 23-27, wherein the print head (5) is cleaned after printing.
29. The method of any one of claims 23-28, comprising the step of providing at least one substance comprising at least one of fat, starch, flour, gelatin, sweetener, natural flavor, artificial flavor, and colorant in at least one cartridge.
30. The method of any of claims 23-29, wherein the drug substance comprises at least one of an antipyretic, an analgesic, an antimalarial, an antibiotic, an antiseptic, a mood stabilizer, a hormone replacement, an oral contraceptive, a stimulant, a sedative, and a statin.
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a system and a method for producing pharmaceutical objects via 3D printing.
The invention relates in particular to the technology of manufacturing 3D objects by applying, accumulating or forming layers for forming 3D printed items, and in particular to a system specially modified for manufacturing a variety of tablets, granules, capsules, suppositories, implants and other pharmaceutical products.
Background
The system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing disclosed in the present invention has not been disclosed in the prior art. To date, 3D printing has never been widely applied in any way in the pharmaceutical and manufacturing fields of pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical tablets, granules or capsules.
Only WO2017034951 is known in the prior art, which discloses a 3D printing apparatus and system for producing pharmaceutical tablets. According to the invention, the powdered mixture is applied on a moving belt, forming a first layer of tablets before spraying a binder fluid which integrates the mixture and is ready to receive the next layer. This process is repeated a number of times to form solid but particularly porous tablets which can be orally dispersed by a nozzle.
The main drawback of this particular invention is the process for manufacturing the tablets, since it is carried out by continuously applying a mixture, a portion of which is not used for preparing the tablets, thus resulting in a waste of raw materials. Furthermore, one limiting factor is that the apparatus can only produce porous tablets using powder blends that would prevent the manufacture of other types of products (such as capsules or compact granules) and does not offer the possibility of printing objects by using fluid raw materials, the printing process being performed by applying layers of material successively in repeated steps until a porous tablet is formed.
Most drugs are administered through the digestive tract for the purpose of intestinal absorption or entry into the blood stream from the oral or rectal mucosa. Ingestion of a drug has various advantages because it is painless and easy, the abundant digestive secretions promote dissolution of the drug, and the change in pH along the digestive tract provides a suitable environment for absorption of almost all drugs. In addition, the large fluidity, large area of surface and abundant blood supply of the digestive tract mucosa greatly facilitates absorption. The rate of absorption may vary depending on the formulation of the tablet, such as the ease of disintegration, the solubility of the shell, and/or the size of the granules contained in the capsule. Finally, the digestive system absorbs relatively slowly and can intervene early in the event of any error.
Although the production of medicaments for administration via the digestive tract shows many advantages, the production of granules, tablets, capsules and related pharmaceutical or non-pharmaceutical preparations has hitherto been a complicated and particularly expensive process. The development costs of new drugs, production units, specialized machinery and materials used to produce drugs, and increased labor costs have led to a substantial increase in drug prices.
Another disadvantage is due to the high cost of maintaining the quantity of medication in emergency situations. Especially in remote and infrequently occurring areas, potential emergency situations result in the storage of large quantities of drugs, which are not usually used until their expiration.
Disclosure of Invention
The object of the present invention is therefore to advantageously overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks and drawbacks of the prior art by proposing a system for producing pharmaceutical objects, such as tablets, granules and capsules, by means of 3D printing.
It is a further object of the invention to provide the proposed system for producing pharmaceutical objects such as tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing to produce individual prints according to the individual user's choice.
This problem is solved by a system for producing pharmaceutical objects, such as tablets, granules and capsules, via 3D printing, comprising a 3D printer with a mechanical system movable in one or more directions.
In the context of the present invention, pharmaceutical objects shall include pills, tablets, granules and capsules, suppositories, implants and other pharmaceutical products which are administered or placed in the body of a mammal.
The system further includes at least one print head having a nozzle that is movable by a mechanical system. The system preferably includes a printhead.
The system further includes a base system carrying a base for receiving the prepared mixture applied by the print head.
The print head performs the action of printing the product of the system by dispensing repeated layers of material on top of the printing base to form predefined shape objects.
The print head includes at least one print nozzle. The nozzle is part of the print head to allow material to flow over the print base. They may or may not have valves to control the flow of substances according to the characteristics of various fluid substances, such as powders, granules, liquids, gels, creams, pastes, etc.
The system further comprises at least one carrier for holding at least one cartridge, wherein the cartridge contains a printable substance. The cartridge may be removed and/or replaced.
Each cartridge may contain one or more of a variety of Active Substances (APIs), including but not limited to the following families: antibiotics, statins, stimulants, antiseptics, antipyretics, chemotherapeutic agents, anti-inflammatory agents, antifungals, hormonal drugs, diuretics, contraceptives, psychotropic drugs (antidepressants, antipsychotics, etc.), and the like.
The cartridge may contain one or more of a variety of excipients, including but not limited to: binders, coatings, anti-adherents, pigments, flavors, resins, glidants, lubricants, adsorbents, vehicles, sweeteners, solvents, inert powders, biodegradable polymers, waxes, preservatives, disintegrants and the like.
The cartridge may contain one or more of a variety of substances used in oriental medicine, including but not limited to herbal pharmacologic substances and the like.
The cartridge may contain one or more of a variety of substances for homeopathic medicine, including but not limited to tinctures and the like.
The cartridge may contain one or more of a variety of substances used in bioengineered medicine, including but not limited to stem cells and the like.
The cartridge may contain one or more of a plurality of composite substances produced from any of the above families of substances in any suitable mixing.
The cartridge may contain various substances that may still be under development or investigation but have not yet been disclosed.
It is an advantage of the present invention to provide a system for producing pharmaceutical objects, such as tablets, capsules and granules, by means of 3D printing, which can use cartridges with respective active substances and respective plastic or cohesive substances to be used in 3D printing.
When the cartridge is empty or requires other substances, it can be removed from the holder and a new cartridge can be inserted.
To make the present invention useful, another advantage of the present invention is to provide a system for producing pharmaceutical objects (such as tablets, capsules and granules) of different sizes and with optional additional functionality, which covers simple and more complex 3D printing requirements.
Furthermore, the system may comprise a plurality of carriers for cartridges, each cartridge containing a different substance for printing more than one drug, either consecutively or simultaneously at a time.
The carrier may hold a plurality of cartridges with a specific set of printable substances for printing a certain class of pharmaceutical objects. When printing different classes of medicament objects, the entire plurality of cartridges may be replaced.
In an advantageous embodiment, the system has more than one print head.
The robotic system may include a robotic arm that terminates in a print head and may move in one, two, or three directions to accurately print a desired item through the head at one time.
A robotic arm is an example of a mechanical arm, typically programmable, that functions similarly to a human arm; the arm may be the sum of the mechanisms or may be part of a more complex robot. The links of such manipulators are connected by joints, allowing either rotational movement (such as in an articulated robot) or translational (linear) displacement. The links of the robot can be considered to form a kinematic chain. The end of the kinematic chain of the manipulator is called an end effector and it resembles a human hand.
For the needs of the present system, the following types of robotic arms may be used:
cartesian/gantry robots: for pick and place work, sealant application, assembly operations, machine tool handling and arc welding. It is a robot whose arm has three translational joints, the axes of which coincide with a cartesian coordinator.
-a cylindrical robot: for assembly operations, handling at machine tools, spot welding, and handling at die casting machines. It is a robot whose axes form a cylindrical coordinate system.
-spherical/polar coordinate robots for processing machine tools, spot welding, die casting, trimming machines, gas welding and arc welding. It is a robot whose axes form a polar coordinate system.
-a SCARA robot: for pick and place work, applying sealant, assembly operations and handling of the machine. The robot features two parallel rotational joints to provide compliance in a plane.
-an articulated robot: for assembly operations, die casting, trimming, gas welding, arc welding and spraying. It is a robot whose arm has at least three rotational joints.
-a parallel robot: one use is for a mobile platform that handles a flight simulator for a cockpit. It is a robot whose arm has both a translational joint and a rotational joint.
-anthropomorphic robots: it is shaped like a human hand, such as a separate finger and thumb.
The mechanical system may include a carriage (also known as a bridge), which is a mechanical structure commonly used in 3d printers. The support consists of a structure which is vertical and parallel to the ground. The carriage carries the print head and moves it in the up/down direction and/or in the x-direction and/or in the y-direction, or remains stationary, with all necessary movements of the print base.
The system may include a feed line for establishing a fluid connection between the carriage and the printhead. The printing substance may flow from the cartridge in the carrier to the print head through the feed line. The print line may be flexible so that the carriage may remain in a fixed position when the printhead is moved to the printing position by the mechanical system.
Alternatively, the carriage and the print head may be brought close to each other to establish a direct fluid connection between the cartridge in the carriage and the print head.
Preferably, the system comprises a cassette unit having at least one tray, preferably a plurality of trays.
In particular, at least a part of the cassette unit is movable such that the carriage can perform a movement.
For example, a cartridge held in one of the plurality of carriers may be transported to a delivery position where a fluid connection may be established between the cartridge and the printhead by movement of the cassette unit. After another movement of the cassette unit, another cartridge may be moved to the delivery position so that multiple substances may be sequentially filled in the print head.
The cassette unit may comprise an actuator, in particular a servomotor, pneumatic drive, hydraulic drive, chain drive or magnetic drive, to enable at least a part of the cassette unit to be moved, in particular to enable the carriage or carriages to be moved.
Multiple carriers may be arranged on the carousel such that to move a single cartridge all carriers have to be moved. Alternatively, a plurality of carriages may be arranged in a column on the guide rail and may be displaced to be brought to the conveying position.
In a preferred embodiment of the system, the system comprises at least one movable push rod, preferably attached to the carrier, for expelling a cartridge. Thus, the cartridges for use in the system do not require mechanical equipment to expel them. The movable push rod and the actuator for moving the push rod provide accurate and reproducible dosing of the measured amount of substance according to the selected formulation.
The system may further comprise an opening device, preferably connected to the carrier, for opening the cartridge. For example, the carrier may comprise a needle for flushing into the cartridge, a cap remover or a pin for opening a valve of the cartridge.
The system may further comprise a closing device, preferably connected to the carrier, for at least temporarily closing the cartridge during times when printing is not required.
The system may comprise a reading unit, preferably connected to the carrier, to identify the identification mark on the cartridge. Thus, the system may identify the type of substance contained in the cartridge, the date of use, the target quantity, or other data associated with the cartridge.
The reading unit may provide logistics support such as statistical data or automatic fill orders. Logistics brings the benefits of volume reduction, weight reduction and energy consumption requirements.
In a preferred embodiment of the system, the system comprises a carrier with a temperature control device. A bracket may be provided for heating and/or cooling the cartridge.
In a preferred embodiment of the system, the system comprises a print head with a temperature control device. The print head may be heatable and/or coolable.
In particular, the printhead includes a printhead body having a recess, heat sink or channel for directing a tempering agent, such as a tempering fluid or a tempering gas, such as cooling air. Alternatively, the print head may comprise a thermal conductor which may be electrically heated.
If high temperatures are required, the print head may be covered by a heat shield.
In a preferred embodiment, the printhead comprises a printhead body providing a volume for printing the substance. The print head body may comprise an opening for receiving the fluid substance from a cartridge, which cartridge may in particular be connected to the feed line.
Advantageously, the print head comprises stirring and/or ejecting means, in particular a worm, arranged in the print head body.
The stirring and/or expelling means may be movable, e.g. rotatable within the printhead body.
A mixing tool is provided for mixing a plurality of substances delivered from a plurality of cartridges into a print head.
An ejection means may be provided for ejecting a quantity of the substance through the printhead during printing. The ejection means may be a pushing means movable in the printhead body. The print head may comprise means adapted for mixing and pushing.
Preferably, the system comprises an actuator for moving the stirring and/or pushing means.
Alternatively, the print head may comprise an ejection means for reducing the size of the print head body, such as a squeezing means or a folding means, so that the substance is pressed out of the print head nozzles when the volume of the print head body is reduced.
Preferably, the system comprises an actuator for moving the expelling means.
The printhead may comprise a dual body: a) an outer cylindrical or other shaped hard body, preferably made of recyclable material; and b) an inner container made of an elastic/flexible/compressible material. There may be a plug in the upper part and a cap in the lower part, which is connected to both bodies and contains a printing nozzle possibly equipped with a valve.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a system for producing pharmaceutical objects, such as tablets, granules and capsules, by means of 3D printing, having a pushing tool comprising a punch which pushes an amount of substance out of a print head at a time in order to print the pharmaceutical.
In a preferred embodiment, the print head comprises means adapted for mixing and pushing. To this end, the stirring tool may be at least partially foldable, in particular the stirring tool comprises a foldable head.
The stirring tool with a folding head may be made of aramid (Kevlar), carbon fiber or epoxy resin.
The folding head may provide a vacuum effect at the print head nozzles to prevent dripping.
Advantageously, the print head comprises a nozzle with a valve, such as a check valve, gate valve, ball valve or needle valve.
The print head may include spray nozzles and supply lines for compressed air, steam, water, solvent, pharmaceutical ink, digestible color ink, and the like.
The steam can bind to a very dry substance, allowing for very fast production rates and very porous final products. Steam can accelerate pharmacokinetics.
The combination of steam and binder and drug binder/solvent and water can do the same.
The compressed air may help dry the articles being produced or be used in the same manner as steam but with pills (etc.) made of a heat and/or water affected material.
Colored inks can be used to mark different doses.
In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a thermal print head equipped with a worm to stir the mixture before 3D printing.
Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a collapsible print head that, in addition to agitation, also draws air from the mixture, producing more compact tablets, granules or capsules when desired.
Advantageously, the system comprises an energy emitter linked to the print head. The energy emitter may be arranged on the mechanical system and may move with the print head, or the energy emitter may be directly attached to the print head. The energy emitters provide for drying or fixing a quantity of a substance after leaving the print head nozzles.
In particular, the energy emitter is a photopolymer headlight, an infrared emitter, a laser, a microwave emitter, a liquid nitrogen spray nozzle, a compressed air nozzle or a steam nozzle.
The printhead may include a plurality of nozzles. Thus, a plurality of pharmaceutical objects may be printed in parallel.
In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a cleaning unit for cleaning the print head and/or the cartridge. The cleaning unit may comprise a washing tank and/or a washing opening. The wash port may be connected to a cleaning fluid reservoir and/or a cleaning fluid filtration system.
After use, the print head may preferably be cleaned together with stirring and/or pushing means so that the next time a print head of a different formulation is used, the print head is not contaminated.
The cleaning unit may be a special location reserved in the 3d printing system. The cleaning unit may include an enclosed area having the doors necessary to house the print head.
These doors or openings preferably have all the necessary automation so that controlled-open-close-locking and surveillance as well as all other mechanisms within the area can be achieved.
The door or opening preferably has the necessary tightness to isolate the enclosed area from the rest of the system without compromising important functions of the system such as vacuum and climate control (by evaporating the liquid used and stored therein or by using steam when in use). Immediately after use, the print head is moved thereto by a mechanical system.
The cleaning unit preferably comprises a heated air supply for drying the print head, nozzles for dispensing steam, compressed air, water and/or solvent spray, vacuum suction for removing steam and excess liquid, brushes, needles for cleaning very narrow nozzles, valves, vent valves, a water tank containing solvent and/or water (into which the print head can be immersed and cleaned), an ultrasonic emitter and/or a dedicated cleaning laser emitter.
The tank may include a fluid circulation system that may include a circulator, a filter (such as a charcoal filter), a micro-filter, and a specialized drug filter (such as a HEPA H13 filter) and their necessary plumbing.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system includes a temperature control system for regulating the temperature of the print base. The print base system may include air conduits or channels for directing a tempering agent, such as a tempering fluid or a tempering gas (e.g., cooling air).
The temperature of the printing base can be adjusted in the range of-5 ℃ to 40 ℃. Preferably, the printing base is heated to aid evaporation and promote drying of the printed object.
Advantageously, the system comprises a printing base comprising a formatted printing position, in particular a convex recess, for shaping the pharmaceutical object. The substance may be printed on a well-tolerated formatted print position, which may affect the shape of the pharmaceutical objects. The bottom side of the object may for example have a convex shape instead of a flat plane.
The formatted print positions allow for the formation of pharmaceutical objects, such as pills, which have the same form as most such objects (e.g., pills) made by conventional means. They may have a symmetrical lens shape.
More complex forms may also be formed to help visually identify the item produced immediately, such as a heart, diamond, teddy bear for paediatric use.
The underside may also have the shape of the back of a koala, santa claus, easter rabbit or any other typical food form, so that the pharmaceutical object may be printed in the shape of such a typical food form.
The print base may have a recess adapted to receive a pill blister. Typically, pill blisters are made from vacuum formed sheets of a suitable plastic. The pharmaceutical objects may be printed inside the positioned blisters. Thus, time can be saved and contact with anything outside the sterile environment of the 3D printer can be avoided.
After printing is complete, the closure device may apply a sealing film or film to hermetically seal the blister.
A further action may be to mark the sealed blister by a marking device, such as a laser, connected to the mechanical system.
The system may comprise a printing base comprising a thermal conductor, in particular arranged on a side opposite to the side having the formatted printing positions. Thus, the printing base can be directly heated, for example for drying the printing substance.
The system may include a temperature sensor for monitoring the temperature of the print base. The temperature sensor may be a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor, such as an infrared or laser sensor.
The system may include a temperature control unit that includes a temperature sensor, a thermostat, and/or a thermal switch.
The printing base may be made of a metal and/or metal alloy, such as aluminum aluminide, a corrosion resistant aluminum plate formed of high purity aluminum, the surface layer of which is metallurgically bonded to a high strength aluminum alloy core material, such as a stainless steel species, e.g., 310S-type, a high alloy austenitic stainless steel for high temperature applications. The high chromium and nickel contents give the steel excellent oxidation resistance and high strength at high temperatures, or make type 316 excellent in food and surgical use-the addition of molybdenum alloys prevents certain forms of corrosion as it increases resistance to chloride corrosion, etc.
The print base may be made of plastic and/or composite material. The print base may be made of tempered glass such as borosilicate glass, 7740 glass. The print base may comprise a ceramic, such as a glass-ceramic. Glass-ceramics have the manufacturing advantages of glass as well as the special properties of ceramics. They can withstand brazing temperatures as high as 700 deg.f while retaining properties such as zero porosity, high strength, toughness, low thermal expansion, high temperature stability, machinability, high chemical durability, biocompatibility, insulating ability. In manufacturing, glass-ceramics have the value of combining the strength of ceramics with the hermeticity of glass.
Preferably, the printing base has a coating, in particular a ceramic glaze coating. The printed medication object may fall off the print base and not adhere to the print base.
Many types of coatings can be used, for example: ceramic glaze, impermeable layer or coating of vitreous material fused with ceramic body by firing, silica nanocoating, antibacterial and antifungal silver nanocoating, titanium dioxide (TiO) having bactericidal action and antifouling properties2) And (3) nanoparticles.
The base system may further comprise an object remover.
The object remover may be formed by a tilting mechanism that tilts the printing base such that the printed pharmaceutical objects slide down the printing base to a collection point, e.g. into a container.
The object remover may be formed by connecting a movable extraction pin or gas nozzle to a formatted printing position of the printing base. Each print object can be ejected from the print position by the pressure of a pull-out pin that is pierced from the hole of the print position or by the pressure of air that is blown out of the hole of the print position.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the base system comprises a base holder for receiving the printing base. The print base can be removed and/or replaced.
Printing pedestals having different formatted printing locations may be used in the same system. The printing base with the printing object can be removed from the system and replaced with a new printing base.
In another advantageous embodiment, a system for 3D printing includes a mechanical base system capable of moving a printing base in one or more directions.
For example, the print base can be raised at the print height and lowered after printing. The printing base can also be moved to accomplish the movement of the mechanical system for moving the print head, so that a complete 3D printing can be achieved also by only one-dimensional or two-dimensional movement of the print head.
An advantageous system for 3D printing of tablets, granules and capsules has a thermally controlled base with formatted print locations with air conduits for precisely controlling the temperature and humidity of the printed item.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a chamber for establishing a controlled atmosphere, in particular a chamber having a door. The system is equipped with separate units such as a ventilation filter, a ventilation duct, an air filter, an activated carbon filter, an air conditioning system, an air drying system, a vacuum system with a vacuum pump, and a head cleaning reservoir.
An advantage of the present invention is the ability of the proposed system to operate autonomously or in conjunction with a computer to accommodate orders for 3D printed granules, tablets and capsules.
The system is preferably controlled by a computer or series of computers to function. The computer runs on an operating system such as Windows, Linux, IO, etc., and provides all the software needed to perform the tasks.
The computer preferably controls all operations and actions of the system. Each of the subsystems, devices and mechanisms may be controlled and made functional by a controller. A controller is a comparison device that receives an input signal from a measured process variable, compares that value to a predetermined control point value, and determines the appropriate amount of output signal required by the final control element to provide corrective action in the control loop, PLC, EPROM, etc.
In many cases, the same cable connecting each device to the computer may be the power supply (e.g., USB) for that device. The computer may be equipped with all the necessary subsystems to interact with the user of the system, such as a screen (touch screen, capacitive screen, LCD or other), input methods (touch screen, keyboard, multi-function buttons or other), an audio and/or visual cue system, on/off buttons, and any other means of interacting with the system.
The computer may be equipped with the necessary software to carry out its functions.
The computer preferably includes the ability to run automated diagnostics on each subsystem of the facility and notify the user of the need to maintain or repair any part of the system or impending failure. In this way, maintenance costs are reduced and the availability of the system is increased.
Preferably, the computer takes care of the calibration of the moving mechanism as required.
The computer preferably maintains a database of the requirements for selecting any available mixture and any method suitable for producing any product, as well as the form of each product (pill, granule, tablet, suppository, etc.).
The computer preferably maintains a database of usage statistics and can notify the user that a cartridge containing a particular substance or mixture of substances is running out or even order directly cartridges that require on-line collation for logistics operations.
Databases required for operation of the system may be stored in the memory of the computer and/or at an online location (internet data storage, remote server, cloud, etc.). Updates (and program updates) can be made as new products become available, or can be recovered from if a failure occurs. To this end, the computer may be equipped with a modem (modem, router, etc.) that is connected to the Web via cable or wireless technology. Backups of computer programs, databases, etc. may be provided by flash memory sticks, external hard drives, online data storage, etc.
The computer may interact with other devices (external computers, computer accessories such as mouse, keyboard, webcam, portable hard disk, microphone, printer, scanner and speakers, tablet, smartphone, screen, etc.) via cable (USB, DVI, HDMI, etc.) or via wireless technology.
In the case of a small system (desktop or portable), the computer may be located outside the system (standalone).
All electronic control subsystems-controllers, regulators, etc. -can communicate directly (through cables) or indirectly (through the use of bluetooth, WIFI, IR or other) through the use of an interface device (system to computer) that includes the necessary drivers and programs (or apps) installed on the computer used.
Power may be provided to all subsystems of the system by modules including a power input (cable and/or wireless charger), a power converter (e.g., 220v/12v), a battery or battery pack, a UPS { uninterruptible power supply, also an uninterruptible power supply, a UPS or battery/flywheel backup power supply, an electrical device that provides emergency power to a load in the event of an input or primary power failure }, an auxiliary or emergency power system or backup generator, and a power output (USB or otherwise).
The problem is also solved by a method for producing pharmaceutical objects such as tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing, in particular with a system as described above.
The method comprises the following steps.
At least one drug substance is provided in at least one cartridge. The cartridge is placed in the holder. A fluid connection is established between the cartridge and the print head so that the drug substance can leave the print head through the print head nozzles. The print head nozzles are moved according to a 3D printing program and the drug substance is dispensed to the print base.
The cartridge may be transferred to the print head and may move with the print head.
Preferably, a quantity of at least one drug substance is administered from a cartridge to a print head and the substance is agitated in the print head, in particular mixing a plurality of drug substances.
The pharmaceutical fluid may be printed in accordance with a specified formulation composition and mixing.
A plurality of cartridges may be arranged in a cassette, each cartridge containing a different drug substance, and the cassette may be moved relative to the printhead to a position in which a selected cassette is in fluid connection with the printhead. An amount of the corresponding drug substance may be administered to the print head to prepare a drug mixture according to the drug formulation.
In an advantageous embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of print heads, which are moved independently and each of which dispenses a substance to the print base. The first print head may be filled with a shell or cover substance, the further print head may be filled with a first content substance, and the further print head may contain a further content substance, such that the drug objects within the inner structure may be printed.
The method according to the invention is advantageous for situations where individually designed pharmaceutical objects of similar composition have to be provided regularly, such as in hospitals, nursing homes, cruise ships, naval vessels or refugee camps.
Storage of the matrix material is easier than storage of each and every implementation of certain drugs.
A reduction in packaging with ecological benefits and cost reduction is achieved.
A print base with a formatted print position may be applied to the print base system prior to printing. The pharmaceutical substance may be dispensed on a formatted print position.
After printing, the print head may need to be cleaned.
Preferably, the method comprises the step of providing at least one substance comprising at least one of fat, starch, flour, gelatin, sweetener, natural flavor, artificial flavor, and colorant in at least one cartridge.
These food substances ensure easy digestion and deliciousness of the printed object.
The cartridge may also contain other food substances that may serve as excipients, such as emulsifiers, stabilizers, thickeners, binders, sweeteners, sugar coating additives, anti-caking agents, emulsifiers, acidulants, acidity regulators, antifoaming and foaming agents, antioxidants, fillers, food colors, color retention agents, flavors, flavor enhancers, polishes, humectants, preservatives, stabilizers, sweeteners, and the like.
Additional substances may be provided in separate cartridges so that a composite material comprising a drug substance and a food substance may be mixed in the print head according to a predetermined formulation.
In a preferred embodiment of the method, the drug substance provided in at least one cartridge comprises at least one of an antipyretic, an analgesic, an antimalarial, an antibiotic, an antiseptic, a psychiatric drug, a mood stabilizer, a hormone replacement, an oral contraceptive, a stimulant, a sedative and a statin.
Antipyretics, such as acetaminophen, reduce fever, fever or fever. Analgesics or painkillers, such as acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or opioids, can reduce pain. Antimalarial drugs such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine treat malaria. Antibiotics inhibit bacterial growth. The preservative prevents the growth of bacteria in the vicinity of burns, cuts and wounds. Mood stabilizers are for example lithium and valproamide. Hormone substitutes are for example estrogens or progestins. Oral contraceptives are for example estriol, "biphasic" pills and "triphasic" pills. Stimulants are for example methylphenylacetate and amphetamine. Chlorpromazine is an example of an antiepileptic drug. Chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, alprazolam are examples of benzodiazepines sedatives and hypnotics. Statins are, for example, lovastatin, pravastatin and simvastatin.
The system of the invention and the method of the invention can be applied to the formulation of paracetamol formulations for paediatric use. Every 4 to 6 hours,
In one example, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, sugar and milk or chocolate pieces and an amount of paracetamol are suitable for the desired medicament to be produced, for example 250mg paracetamol is dispensed to the print head, mixed and combined. The print head is heated to reach a temperature that melts the components.
To date, the main factor in not using chocolate and other substances that are attractive to taste is the fact that: they may be mistaken for snacks and poisoned by over-consumption.
By producing such pharmaceutical objects using a 3d printer capable of precise dosing, this risk is virtually eliminated as well, and due to the fact that the shape of such tablets can be easily distinguished, and that very small quantities of tablets can be produced.
On the other hand, substances that are chocolate can help those who do not generally like them receive medications.
The production of such tablets will serve as an example of a 3d printing system function.
The first step is to give the system an input specifying the desired product, for example 250mg paracetamol-chocolate tablet for paediatric use.
The system selects a cartridge containing the desired ingredient (substance) and, after sequentially removing its protective cap, fills the print head at the filling position. Thereafter, the cartridge nozzle is cleaned by the cleaning device and its cap is replaced. At the same time as the mixing mechanism begins to combine the drug and excipient, the print head is heated at a temperature of 30 to 35 degrees celsius to help melt the excipient.
The print head is positioned above the print base and starts the printing process upon command of the dedicated software. The printing base then cools the object as it is printed to help it solidify quickly at a temperature of 20 degrees celsius. At the same time, the airflow and temperature control devices of the system help cool the tablets in the formation.
The procedure ends with the print base delivering the product to be packaged as produced, and the print head and base are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized in preparation for the next system's task. Other excipients that can be used to obtain the desired taste and texture of the tablet, such as cocoa butter, cocoa powder, sugar, milk, white chocolate, caramel, strawberry flavor, dark chocolate, and other flavors.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in the following detailed description.
Drawings
The invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art by reference to the accompanying drawings which are shown by way of illustration, and not by way of limitation.
Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an illustrative basic embodiment of a 3D printing production system for tablets, granules and capsules;
fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a basic embodiment of a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing, wherein the door of the system is open;
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a production system, when connected to a computer, also showing dual printheads of the system;
fig. 4 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing;
fig. 5 shows a rear perspective view of a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing, wherein it is also shown how the supply is performed;
fig. 6 shows an embodiment of a tablet, granulate and capsule production system by means of 3D printing in a cross-sectional view, also showing the individual components thereof;
fig. 7 shows in perspective view another embodiment of a tablet, granule and capsule production system via 3D printing, wherein the door of the system is open;
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the above-described exemplary embodiment of the system in a cross-sectional view;
FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional elevation view of the system, showing various components thereof;
FIG. 10 shows a rear view of the system of FIG. 7 in cross-section;
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a rear view of the system, showing further details thereof at a different angle;
FIG. 12 shows a rear view of the system of FIG. 7 in another embodiment;
FIG. 13 shows an exemplary embodiment of a 3D printing system machine equipped with dual printheads and a movable mechanical base;
FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of a 3D printer of the illustrated system, which is capable of continuously delivering a mixture for printing;
FIG. 15 illustrates another alternative embodiment of a 3D printer, the arm of which can be moved to one or more directions in which the printhead and base can be moved;
FIG. 16 also shows an alternative embodiment of a 3D printer of the illustrated system;
fig. 17 shows a robotic arm that may be used for 3D printing of tablets, granules and capsules by the system of the invention;
FIG. 18 shows an alternative chassis that may be used as a 3D printer in the system of the present invention;
figure 19 shows a partial longitudinal cross-sectional view of a cartridge of the present invention for 3D printing of granules, tablets and capsules;
fig. 20 shows a longitudinal section through a cartridge containing a mixture suitable for each case, while
Fig. 21 shows an alternative embodiment of a cartridge with a different tip type;
FIG. 22 shows an elongated cartridge carrier that may be used in the present system, and a ram for advancing the mixture;
fig. 23 shows a variation of a rotatable cartridge carrier;
fig. 24 shows in a cross-sectional view an alternative embodiment of a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing, wherein the arrangement of the cartridge and the print head can be seen;
FIG. 25 shows a thermal print head with a support base and an accessory carriage, an
Fig. 26 shows the back of the thermal head and its corresponding cooling fan;
fig. 27 shows a thermal head with a feed device and a photopolymer headlight on a head cradle;
fig. 28(a) and (b) show a thermal head and its corresponding cross section, in which there are clearly notches causing heat loss;
FIGS. 29(a) and (b) show a thermal printing base with formatted printing positions or simple types for printing articles;
FIG. 30 shows a cross-sectional view of a base with air ducts for air circulation;
FIG. 31 illustrates a collapsible worm that may be used in the production system of the present invention;
FIG. 32 shows a perspective view of a worm with an active material inlet and an air outlet, respectively;
FIG. 33 shows a cross-sectional view of the base of the collapsible worm of FIG. 32;
FIG. 34 shows the collapsible worm when fully collapsed;
FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of a multi-print head with a worm that can be used in a 3D printing production system for tablets, granules and capsules of the present invention;
FIG. 36 shows a print base with formatted print positions;
FIG. 37 shows an example of a base system;
FIG. 38 shows another example of a base system;
fig. 39 shows a print base with an extraction pin in (a) a passive position and (b) an extracted position;
fig. 40 shows an embodiment of a compressible cartridge (a) in a first position, (b) in a second position, and (c) in a third position;
fig. 41 shows the cartridge carrier arranged in the cassette unit.
Detailed Description
Referring now to the drawings, we will describe exemplary embodiments of a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing, in order to make the operation thereof easy to understand.
The basic structure of the system is as shown in fig. 1 and comprises a display 1 with keys or touch buttons from which a user can enter the necessary data and monitor the displayed indications during operation of the system. It also comprises a
The system of the invention for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing is further equipped with a power supply cable 9 (fig. 3) and can be connected to a
In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing may be in the form of fig. 4, similarly comprising a display 1, a power cable 9 (fig. 5) and a printing chamber 7, wherein a
However, it further has one or
In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the system for producing tablets, granules and capsules by means of 3D printing may have additional functional elements enabling it to be used in more complex applications.
The system has a display 1 (fig. 7) and a gate 8 and furthermore a power supply unit with a voltage regulator 15 (fig. 10) and an uninterruptible power supply 16 (fig. 9), allowing uninterrupted operation of the system.
In order to control and maintain the proper atmospheric conditions in the printing chamber 7 and in the entire system, there is an air conditioning and
The system also has a carbon filter 19 (fig. 8) for absorbing carbon dioxide and other harmful substances from the circulating air, while a
The system may have a
The cleaning liquid may be selected from the following examples.
Organic acids, surfactant compounds, corrosion inhibitors, which can be used with precious metals, stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, chrome plated metals, glass, plastics, semi-precious stones, quartz, ceramics to remove abrasive pastes, oxide films and annealed colors, such as glycolic acid.
Acids, solubilizers, wetting agents for removing oxide films from non-ferrous metals without corroding the metal surface and/or for removing lime deposits, such as phosphoric acid.
-bases, complexing agents, chelating agents, solubilizers, surface-active compounds, surfactants for removing synthetic resins, mixtures of amorphous resins, polishes and abrasives, for example KOH-based or NaOH-based detergent residues, in particular with bactericidal and virucidal activity.
Neutral pH cleaners with pH 6-9 for cleaning aluminium and other soft metals, e.g. NpH sterile or neutral detergents.
The cleaning solution is preferably phosphate and chlorine free.
After 3d printing, the print head is preferably pre-filtered dry air, which is heated shortly before entering the cleaning unit. The air may be filtered again by means of a suitable filter, for example a HEPA H13 filter as required in europe. The detergent may be used with ultrasonic or spray techniques or as a foam detergent.
The system will have a corresponding computing unit 14 (fig. 11) for processing and executing commands, as previously reported.
As mentioned above, each system has a 3D printer 2 (fig. 13), the
For example, the
The
The number of
The
The cartridge may be provided with a valve at its nozzle to avoid spillage, drying etc. A valve is a device that regulates, directs or controls the flow of a fluid (gas, liquid, fluidized solid or slurry) by opening, closing or partially blocking various passages. Valves are technically fittings, but are generally discussed as separate categories. In the open valve, the fluid flows in a direction from high pressure to low pressure.
The simplest and very old valve is simply a freely hinged flap that descends to prevent fluid (gas or liquid) from flowing in one direction but is pushed open by the flow in the opposite direction. This is referred to as a check valve because it can stop or "stop" flow in one direction. Modern control valves can regulate downstream pressure or flow and operate on complex automated systems. These valves may be spring-loaded, resilient (made of silicon or other material with similar resilience), with holes or slits (straight, cross-shaped, etc.) to allow the material to be expelled from the cartridge when the shaft on the plug is under pressure. In this case, the protective cap of the cartridge nozzle may be fitted with a small needle. Alternatively, at least one blade may be used in the case of a cut (e.g. a cross) on the valve adapted to its shape.
The valves may be of different types, for example of the doser type, which can control the flow rate if the material contained in the cartridge is of the dry (solid) type (such as powders, pellets, etc.), or of the on/off type used with liquids (gate valves, ball valves, needle valves, etc.). The valve may be pressure-inserted at the cartridge nozzle or glued. In the case of solid materials, the valve mechanism may form the lower part of the cartridge itself.
Each system may be provided with more than one
The
The size or shape of the cartridge may vary depending on the two production methods. They may be large, for example, in a factory for mass production; medium size, for pharmacies and hospitals; or smaller for desktop or mobile use.
The cartridge as described is preferably made of a material that does not interact in any way or contaminate the included substances, e.g. oxidation of metals in contact with aqueous or alcoholic solvents.
Such materials include a wide variety of metals such as stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and in any case, any metal can be used in principle, using techniques that form film-like coatings to isolate the contained substances from any metal that might damage them. As an example of such a technique we may mention: electroplating, spray coating or dip coating, ceramic coating or even internal extrusion of suitable plastic films.
Such materials include a wide variety of plastic materials, and in such cases care must be taken to avoid contamination by reaction (e.g., alcohol solvents and some types of polyethylene plastics) or by release of volatile gases and/or oil substances contained in the plastic itself (e.g., certain polyethylene, polyurethane, and polyester materials).
In any case, a wide variety of plastic materials may be used, such as epoxy, certain nylons, polyethylene, and even more composite materials (e.g., nylon with glass microspheres made by injection molding or epoxy combined with ceramic microspheres).
For plastics, the aforementioned techniques can be used to further enhance the defense against the contained substances, or to use unsuitable materials by forming an inner layer of protective material suitable for the job (e.g., double extrusion of PET or PETG and ABS; such techniques are commonly used in disposable, water and soda bottles made of plastics). The harder or non-extrudable plastic may be temporarily conductive and therefore plated, or may simply be sprayed or dipped in a suitable material to form a protective layer. In any case, glass and ceramics may be used.
Preferably, the cartridge incorporates within its body various identification methods (RIFD or other chip, bar code or other) which provide an interface with a reading unit 66 (see fig. 41) on the carrier or on the storage container. This information allows the system to identify the ingredients contained so that the correct volume can be selected, or to identify the shelf life of each product, the volume remaining in each cartridge, the frequency of use, etc. This information can be used as statistical information to optimize production and to enable supply chain automation by timely order replacement renewal when needed.
The
To improve the temperature control of the
In a further alternative embodiment the
In another alternative embodiment, the
In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the
In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the
In another alternative embodiment of the print head (5), it may have a
3D printing of tablets, granules and capsules was performed on a base 6 (fig. 29(b)) on a
The
After the 3D printing is completed, the item is removed from the
Fig. 37 shows an example of a
The
Fig. 38 shows another example of the
Fig. 39 shows the
Fig. 40 shows an embodiment of
The
The
Fig. 41 shows the
When it is desired to fill the printhead (not shown) with material using the
After dispensing, the
It should be noted here that the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary but not limited embodiments. Any alterations or modifications in shape, size, form, materials and components used in fabrication and assembly, if they are not new inventive steps and do not contribute to the technical development of known steps, should be considered to be within the scope and intent of the present invention.
Aspects of the invention
I. A system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing, comprising a display (1), a base (11) with a built-in computer unit (14), a power supply cable (9) and a 3D printer (2) in a chamber (7), the chamber (7) having a door (8), a system with a robot arm (3) movable in one or more directions, a base system (4) with a carrying base (6) movable in one or more directions and a print head (5) on the robot arm system (3), having a nozzle (37) and a head cylinder (38) with an envelope (39), characterized in that the print head (5) applies a prepared mixture (27) on the base (6) for 3D printing of tablets, granules and capsules.
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has ventilation ducts (12) and air filters (13) for circulating and purifying the air inside the chamber (7).
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has a power supply unit (15) with a voltage regulator and an uninterruptible power supply (16).
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has an air conditioning and air drying system (17) communicating with the printing chamber (7) via air supply and return ducts (18).
V. a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has an activated carbon filter (19) for absorbing carbon dioxide.
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has a vacuum pump (20) and a negative pressure container (21) for generating a vacuum.
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has a washing tank (22), a washing mouth (23) connected to a cleaning fluid reservoir (24) and a cleaning fluid filtration system (25) for cleaning the print head (5).
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that the mixture (27) is fed to the print head (5) via a cartridge (28).
IX. the system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that the cartridge (28) is arranged on a carrier (35).
X. the system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that the mixture (27) is fed from a container (29) to the print head (5) via a dispensing tube (30).
System for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that the mixture (27) is in the form of filaments.
Xii. cartridge for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, wherein a printing mixture (27) is contained and the cartridge has an end (31) with a cap (32) and a removable cover (33) on its upper side.
A print head for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has a heating body (42) with a recess (43) and a cooling fan (44) for controlling the temperature of the mixture (27).
A print head for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has a photopolymer headlight (45) on an arm (46).
XV. for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has a liquid nitrogen spray nozzle.
A print head for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it carries a worm (47) actuated by a servomotor for stirring a mixture (27).
Xvii printing head for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspects I and XV, characterized in that the worm (47) has a foldable head (48) for compressing the mixture (27) with holes (49, 50) for entering the solvent and for discharging the air, respectively.
Xviii. a print head for use in a system for producing tablets, granules and capsules via 3D printing according to aspect I, characterized in that it has more than one nozzle (37).
Printing base for use in a 3D printing system according to aspect I, characterized in that it has formatted printing positions (49) for shaping tablets, granules and capsules.
XX. for use in a printing base in a 3D printing system according to aspect I, characterized in that it has an air duct (50) for physical or forced air flow over the base (6).
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