DE102020105362A1 - Extrusion device for extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object - Google Patents

Abstract

Extrusion device (1) for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, comprising: - at least one first extrusion unit (3) which is set up to melt an extrusion material, - at least one second extrusion unit (4) which can be or is connected to the first extrusion unit (3), which is set up to discharge an extrusion material melted by means of the at least one first extrusion unit (3) onto a substrate (2), an extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate (2) by means of the at least one second extrusion unit (4) is set up.

Description

The invention relates to an extrusion device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object.

Such an extrusion device for the extrusion-based production of three-dimensional objects is basically known from the prior art and typically comprises at least one extrusion unit which is set up for melting or plasticizing an extrusion material.

Sometimes it may be necessary in the context of extrusion-based production of a three-dimensional object by means of a corresponding extrusion device to add an additional material to an extrusion material to be processed, for example to give a three-dimensional object to be produced certain structural properties, i.e. H. in particular mechanical properties, which is achieved by adding additional materials that influence the structural properties of the three-dimensional object to be produced, d. H. z. B. reinforcement materials, can be achieved, and / or to a three-dimensional object to be produced certain optical properties, d. H. in particular to impart certain color properties, which is achieved by adding additional materials which influence the optical properties of the three-dimensional object to be produced, d. H. z. B. dye materials, can be achieved.

The admixture of corresponding additional materials in an extrusion material that can be processed or processed by means of an extrusion device has up to now regularly required comparatively complex design solutions, so that there is a need for an extrusion device with a simple, yet reliable option of adding corresponding additional materials to an extrusion material that can be processed or processed by means of the extrusion device. to be processed extrusion material exists.

The invention is based on the object of specifying an extrusion device with a simple, yet reliable possibility of adding appropriate additional materials to an extrusion material that can be or is to be processed by means of the extrusion device.

The object is achieved by an extrusion device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object according to claim 1. The dependent claims relate to possible embodiments of the extrusion device.

A first aspect of the invention described herein relates to an extrusion device for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. The extrusion device is therefore set up for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. In particular, the extrusion device is set up for at least section-wise, possibly complete, layer-wise or layer-wise extrusion-based production of a corresponding three-dimensional object; the extrusion-based production of a corresponding three-dimensional object can therefore take place at least in sections, possibly completely, in layers or in layers by means of the extrusion device.

The term “object” can in principle be understood to mean any three-dimensional object or any section of a three-dimensional object. A three-dimensional object can e.g. B. be a technical component or a technical component group. A section of a three-dimensional object can accordingly be a section of a technical component or a section of a technical component group.

The extrusion device is correspondingly for the extrusion-based processing of at least one extrusion material, i. H. set up for the extrusion of at least one extrusion material onto a substrate. An extrusion material is typically to be understood as an extrudable or extrudable plastic material. An extrusion material that can be processed by means of the extrusion device is therefore typically an extrudable or extrudable plastic material. The term “plastic material” can also include mixtures of at least two chemically different plastic materials and / or mixtures of at least one plastic material with at least one additional material.

The extrusion device comprises at least one first extrusion unit and at least one second extrusion unit which can be or is connected to the first extrusion unit. Although the extrusion device can therefore comprise a plurality of first extrusion units and / or a plurality of second extrusion units, a first extrusion unit or a second extrusion unit is largely referred to below; However, the following explanations and explanations apply analogously to embodiments of the extrusion device with a plurality of first extrusion units and / or with a plurality of second extrusion units.

The first extrusion unit is at least one for melting or plasticizing Extrusion material set up. The first extrusion unit typically comprises at least one extruder chamber (first extruder chamber) in which at least one first extruder screw is arranged or formed. In principle, several extruder screws can also be arranged or formed in the first extruder chamber. In particular, an embodiment of the first extrusion unit with a twin screw is conceivable; a particular advantage here would be the positive properties of the respective, e.g. B. parallel or conical, twin screw arrangements. The first extruder chamber can be delimited by a housing or a housing section of the first extrusion unit. The first extruder screw can have a drive device, in particular a motor-driven one, which is set up to generate a drive force or a corresponding drive torque that displaces the first extruder screw in a movement, ie in particular a rotary movement about an extruder axis defined by the first extruder screw. The first extrusion unit, ie in particular the first extrusion chamber belonging to the first extrusion unit, typically comprises at least one, optionally nozzle-like or -shaped, discharge opening (first discharge opening), via which extrusion material flows from the first extrusion unit into the second extrusion unit, ie in particular into an extruder chamber the second extrusion unit, can be discharged. The first extrusion unit can also be referred to or viewed as the “main extruder”.

The second extrusion unit typically comprises at least one extruder chamber (second extruder chamber) in which at least one second extruder screw is arranged or formed. In principle, several extruder screws can also be arranged or formed in the second extruder chamber. In particular, an embodiment of the second extrusion unit with a twin screw is conceivable; a particular advantage here would be the positive properties of the respective, z. B. parallel or conical, twin screw arrangements. The second extruder chamber can be delimited by a housing or a housing section of the second extrusion unit. The second extruder screw can have a drive device, in particular a motor-driven one, which is used to generate a movement of the second extruder screw, i. H. in particular a rotary movement about an extruder axis defined by the second extruder screw, displacing drive force or a corresponding drive torque is set up. The second extrusion unit, i. H. in particular the second extruder chamber belonging to the second extrusion unit comprises at least one, optionally nozzle-like or nozzle-shaped, discharge opening (second discharge opening), via which extrusion material can be discharged from the second extrusion unit onto a substrate. The second extrusion unit is correspondingly for discharging an extrusion material melted by means of the first extrusion unit onto a substrate, i. E. H. in particular on a building board, on an object, or on a layer or layer of the or an extrusion material. The second extrusion unit is set up, in particular, to continuously process a melted extrusion material, i. H. z. B. in a continuous material web or in a continuous material strand, or discontinuously, d. H. z. B. in a discontinuous material web or in a discontinuous strand of material or in several discrete portions of material to be discharged onto a substrate. In principle, it is conceivable that the type of discharge of the extrusion material via the second extrusion unit, e.g. B. within a layer and / or between several layers, varies. Thus, discharge parameters, such as. B. discharge rate, depending on various parameters such. B. the web width, web speed, etc. can be varied. The second extrusion unit can also be referred to or viewed as a “secondary extruder”.

The connection between the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit enables, in particular, an extrusion material that is at least partially, in particular completely, melted by means of the first extrusion unit to flow from the first extrusion unit, i. H. in particular the first extrusion chamber belonging to the first extrusion unit, into the second extrusion unit, d. H. in particular into the second extruder chamber belonging to the second extrusion unit. The connection between the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit can therefore be a fluidic connection, which enables an extrusion material that is at least partially, in particular completely, melted by means of the first extrusion unit to flow from the first extrusion unit, i. H. in particular the first extrusion chamber belonging to the first extrusion unit, into the second extrusion unit, d. H. in particular into the second extruder chamber belonging to the second extrusion unit.

The extrusion device furthermore comprises one or more material introduction device (s) which can be assigned or assigned to the second extrusion unit. Although the extrusion device can thus comprise several material introduction devices, the following is largely referred to as a material introduction device; However, the following explanations and explanations apply analogously to embodiments of the extrusion device with several material introduction devices.

The material introduction device is for introducing at least one additional material into a or the extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate by means of the second extrusion unit. By means of the material introduction device, at least one additional material can therefore be introduced into an extrusion material or the extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate by means of the second extrusion unit. The material introduction device can therefore be connected or connected to the second extrusion unit in such a way that at least one additional material can be introduced into the second extrusion unit, ie in particular into the second extruder chamber.

The connection between the material introduction device and the second extrusion unit is therefore typically a fluidic connection, which enables at least one additional material to flow into the second extrusion unit, i. H. in particular in a second extruder chamber or that belonging to the second extrusion unit. The connection between the material introduction device and the second extrusion unit basically enables gaseous, liquid or solid additional material to be introduced into the second extrusion unit. The specific functional or structural implementation of the connection between the material feeding device and the second extrusion unit is therefore typically selected with a view to a specific state of aggregation or a specific nature of the additional material to be introduced.

The material introduction device can be used as a conveying device, which is used to convey at least one additional material, in particular at least one reservoir-like or reservoir-shaped collecting device that can be assigned or assigned to the material introduction device, into the second extrusion unit, i. H. in particular in the second extruder chamber or in an extrusion material located in it, be formed or comprise at least one such. It is also conceivable that the material introduction device is assigned a corresponding conveying device. In all cases, a corresponding conveyor z. B. be designed as a feed pump device or at least include one such. The specific functional or structural design of a corresponding conveying device typically results from the aggregate state or the nature and thus from the conveying properties of the additional material to be introduced into the second extrusion unit.

The material introduction device can alternatively or additionally be used as a metering device which is used to meter a certain amount of an additional material into the second extrusion unit, i. H. in particular in the second extruder chamber or in an extrusion material located in it, be formed or comprise at least one such. It is also conceivable that the material introduction device is assigned a corresponding metering device. In all cases, a corresponding metering device, for. B. be designed as, optionally pressurizable or pressurized, metering valve device or comprise at least one such. The specific functional or structural configuration of a corresponding metering device typically results from the state of aggregation or the nature and thus from the metering properties of the additional material to be introduced into the second extrusion unit.

As indicated, at least one reservoir-like or reservoir-shaped collecting device, which is set up to collect additional material that can be introduced or is to be introduced into the second extrusion unit by means of the material introduction device, can be assigned or assigned to the material introduction device. If the collecting device is arranged or designed spatially separate from the material feeding device, there is a fluidic connection between the material feeding device and the collecting device, via which additional material can flow from the collecting device to the material feeding device.

An additional material can generally be understood - regardless of its physical state or its nature - to be any material or any material mixture which can influence the chemical and / or physical properties of a three-dimensional object to be produced by means of the extrusion device. In the case of an additional material, it can be, for. B. a material influencing the structural properties of a three-dimensional object to be produced, d. H. z. B. to a fiber material or reinforcing material, such as. B. a reinforcing fiber material, and / or a material influencing the optical properties of a three-dimensional object to be produced, d. H. z. B. to a dye material such. B. a color pigment material act. Alternatively or in addition, other additional materials, such as. B. a foaming material causing the extrusion material to foam, d. H. z. B. a propellant material, conceivable. Mixtures of chemically and / or physically different additional materials are conceivable.

In particular in connection with an additional material in the form of a fiber material, but in no way limited to this, an embodiment of at least one material feeding device cooperating with a second extruder screw designed as a hollow screw is conceivable. A corresponding material introduction device can therefore be set up, at least one additional material, such as z. B. a fiber material, e.g. B. from a reservoir-like or -shaped collecting device, to be introduced into the cavity of a hollow screw, via which the at least one additional material can be introduced on the cavity exit side into an extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate by means of the second extrusion unit. Specifically, such z. B. a fiber material, ie in particular a continuous fiber material, can be introduced into a melt flow via a corresponding hollow screw. The same applies to additional materials that are not fiber material.

The material introduction device thus opens up a simple, yet reliable possibility of adding appropriate additional materials to an extrusion material that can be or is to be processed by means of the extrusion device.

The at least one first extrusion unit and / or the at least one second extrusion unit and / or the at least one material introduction device can be structural components of an extrusion assembly. The at least one first extrusion unit and / or the at least one second extrusion unit and / or the at least one material introduction device can therefore be combined in a structurally compact manner in a corresponding extrusion assembly. Of course, more than two extrusion units or more than one material feeding device could also be structurally combined in a corresponding extrusion assembly. A corresponding extrusion assembly can in all embodiments be designed as a print head or in the manner of such a head.

As mentioned, the first extrusion unit comprises at least one first extruder screw defining a first extruder axis and the second extrusion unit comprises at least one second extruder screw defining a second extruder axis. The second extruder axis can be arranged and / or aligned parallel or at an angle relative to the first extruder axis. This results in differently configurable design options for the extrusion device, which are defined in particular by the arrangement or orientation of the respective extruder axes and, consequently, by the arrangement or orientation of the respective extruder screws, the respective extruder chambers and the housing or housing sections delimiting them.

In an exemplary embodiment, which typically results in a comparatively compact design of the extrusion device, the second extruder axis can be angled, i. H. be arranged and / or aligned in particular at an angle between 0 and 90 °, in particular at an angle between 10 and 70 °, preferably at an angle between 20 and 60 °, relative to the first extruder axis.

The first extruder axis can define a discharge axis in which melted extrusion material can be discharged onto a substrate. The second extruder screw can therefore be arranged or oriented at an angle relative to the first extruder screw in such a way that a discharge axis, in which melted extrusion material can be discharged onto a substrate, is aligned with the first extruder axis. This also means that an outlet opening, via which melted extrusion material can be discharged onto a substrate, can be aligned with the first extruder axis.

Regardless of the arrangement or alignment of the respective extruder axes, the first extrusion unit and / or the second extrusion unit can be mounted so as to be movable relative to a substrate and / or to an object, depending on or independently of one another, with at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom of movement. The first extrusion unit and / or the second extrusion unit can therefore be assigned a drive device, in particular a motorized one, by means of which the first extrusion unit and / or the second extrusion unit is in a translatory and / or rotational movement relative to a substrate and / or to a Can generate an object displacing drive force or a corresponding drive torque. A corresponding drive device can be part of a mounting device which is set up for the movable mounting of the first extrusion unit and / or the second extrusion unit in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom of movement relative to a substrate and / or to an object. A corresponding storage device can, for. B. be designed as a single or multi-axis robot device or include such.

• Grundsätzlich gilt, dass die zweite Extrusionseinheit oder wenigstens eine zweite Extrusionseinheit ausrichtungs- und/oder positionsfest mit der ersten Extrusionseinheit verbindbar oder verbunden sein kann, oder die zweite Extrusionseinheit oder wenigstens eine zweite Extrusionseinheit ausrichtungs- und/oder positionsvariabel mit der ersten Extrusionseinheit verbindbar oder verbunden sein kann.

With regard to a spatially separate arrangement of the first and the second extrusion unit or the respective housing of the first and second extrusion unit, there are different conceivable embodiments for the structural connection of the first and the second extrusion unit:

• Basically, the second extrusion unit or at least one second extrusion unit can be connected or connected to the first extrusion unit in an orientation and / or fixed position, or the second extrusion unit or at least one second extrusion unit can be connected or connected to the first extrusion unit in a variable orientation and / or position can be.

In the first variant, there is typically a rigid connection between the housing or at least one housing section of the first extrusion unit and the housing or at least one housing section of the second extrusion unit, which in a fixed and / or positional connection of the second extrusion unit with the first extrusion unit, and vice versa , results. In this variant, it is not possible to change the orientation and / or position of the second extrusion unit relative to the first extrusion unit; the second extrusion unit is in a defined orientation and / or position relative to the first extrusion unit. In this variant, the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit can be arranged or formed in a common housing structure of the extrusion device or a common housing structure of a corresponding extrusion assembly. The housing or housing sections of the first and second extrusion units can therefore form components of a higher-level housing structure of the extrusion device or a common housing structure of a corresponding extrusion assembly.

In the second variant, there is typically no rigid connection between the housing or at least one housing section of the first extrusion unit and the housing or at least one housing section of the second extrusion unit, which would result in an alignment and / or position-variable connection between the second extrusion unit and the first extrusion unit, and vice versa , results. In this variant, it is possible to change the orientation and / or position of the second extrusion unit relative to the first extrusion unit; the second extrusion unit can be brought into several defined orientations and / or positions relative to the first extrusion unit. The second extrusion unit or at least one second extrusion unit is here typically mounted so as to be movable relative to the first extrusion unit with at least one degree of freedom of movement.

The connection between the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit can - in principle, regardless of whether the second extrusion unit is connected to the first extrusion unit in a fixed orientation and / or position or variable in orientation and / or position - be direct or indirect. For variants with an indirect connection, it applies that the first extrusion unit can be or can be connected to the second extrusion unit via at least one connecting element. The at least one connecting element is typically set up to form a flow connection which enables an extrusion material melted by means of the first extrusion unit to flow from the or an extruder chamber of the first extrusion unit into the or an extruder chamber of the second extrusion unit.

The connecting element or at least one connecting element can be designed to be rigid, it being designed in particular as a rigid conduit element, preferably as a tubular element. This embodiment can be expedient in particular for the mentioned connection between the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit which is fixed in position and / or in a fixed position. Alternatively, the connecting element or at least one connecting element can be designed to be flexible, it being designed in particular as a flexible line element, preferably as a hose element. This embodiment can be useful in particular for the mentioned alignment and / or position-variable connection between the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit.

In principle, the at least one connecting element can be designed to be extendable in all embodiments, for example telescopically or in the form of a telescope. An extendable connecting element makes it possible to adjust or change the distance between the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit in at least one spatial direction. This can e.g. B. be useful for the production of objects with varying object cross-sections.

In all embodiments, a blocking device, which is set up to block the flow connection formed by the connecting element, at least in sections, can be assigned or assigned to a corresponding connecting element. The flow connection between the first extrusion unit and the or a second extrusion unit can therefore be blocked and / or unblocked as required and thus selectively. In this way, an additional material can be introduced into the second extrusion unit as required.

The blocking device can comprise at least one blocking element which is not possible between a blocking position in which a flow of an extrusion material melted by means of the at least one first extrusion unit from an extruder chamber of the first extrusion unit into an extruder chamber of the at least one second extrusion unit or at least one second extrusion unit is not possible, and at least one non-blocking position, in which a flow of an extrusion material melted by means of the at least one first extrusion unit from an extruder chamber of the first extrusion unit into an extruder chamber of the at least one second extrusion unit or at least one second extrusion unit is possible, is movably mounted. The locking element can in the locked position, for. B. in sections, in particular completely, be moved into a flow cross-section of a connecting element. The blocking element can be assigned a drive device, in particular a motorized one, which is set up to generate a drive force or a corresponding drive torque that moves the blocking element into the blocking position and / or into the non-blocking position. The control of the operation of the drive device and, as a result, the control of movements of the locking element, typically takes place via a control device assigned to it that is implemented in hardware and / or software.

It has been mentioned that the extrusion device can comprise several material introduction devices. Correspondingly, a plurality of material introduction devices, which are each set up for introducing at least one additional material into a melted extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate by means of the second extrusion unit, can be assigned or assigned to the second extrusion unit. A first material introduction device can be set up for introducing at least one first additional material into a molten extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate by means of the second extrusion unit, and at least one further material introduction device can be set up for introducing at least one second material that differs from the first additional material in at least one chemical and / or physical parameter Additional material can be set up in a melted extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate by means of the second extrusion unit. The operation of the material feeding devices can be controlled via a control device implemented in hardware and / or software. As a result, individualized material mixtures, consisting of an extrusion material and at least one additional material, can be produced in the second extrusion unit.

• Die wenigstens zwei zweiten Extrusionseinheiten können gleichmäßig oder ungleichmäßig verteilt relativ zu der ersten Extrusionseinheit angeordnet und/oder ausgerichtet sein. Insbesondere sind bauraumoptimierte Anordnungen bzw. Ausrichtungen der zweiten Extrusionseinheiten relativ zu der ersten Extrusionseinheit und relativ zueinander möglich.

The following statements apply to embodiments of the extrusion device with at least two and therefore with several second extrusion units:

• The at least two second extrusion units can be arranged and / or aligned evenly or unevenly distributed relative to the first extrusion unit. In particular, space-optimized arrangements or orientations of the second extrusion units relative to the first extrusion unit and relative to one another are possible.

In particular, a first second extrusion unit can be arranged and / or aligned relative to the first extrusion unit in such a way that a first object and / or a first object section can be produced via the first second extrusion unit, and at least one further second extrusion unit in this way relative to the first extrusion unit be arranged and / or aligned so that a further object and / or a further object section can be produced via the further second extrusion unit.

In a specific exemplary embodiment, the at least two second extrusion units, in particular with respect to an extruder axis defined by an extruder screw of the first extrusion unit, can be arranged and / or aligned concentrically relative to the first extrusion unit.

Regardless of their arrangement or alignment, the at least two second extrusion units can be mounted so as to be movable relative to one another with at least one degree of freedom of movement. A corresponding movable storage of respective second extrusion units can, for. B. be useful to move at least one second extrusion unit as needed or temporarily (further) relative to at least one further second extrusion unit, d. H. z. B. to be further spaced from a substrate in order not to impair the discharge result realized by means of the at least one further second extrusion unit.

Likewise, regardless of their arrangement or alignment, the at least two second extrusion units can have at least one of the same or different discharge properties of the melted extrusion material which can be discharged via them onto a substrate. Consequently, with at least two second extrusion units, individualized material mixtures, consisting of an extrusion material and at least one additional material, can be discharged onto a substrate.

It is Z. B. conceivable that the at least two second extrusion units in at least one geometrical-constructive parameter, in particular a dimension parameter defining the dimensions of a respective discharge opening and / or a shape parameter defining the shape of the respective discharge opening, a respective discharge opening via which the respective one Melted extrusion material which can be discharged from the substrate can be discharged onto a substrate, are the same or different. As an alternative or in addition, it is conceivable that the at least two second extrusion units in at least one operating parameter influencing the discharge speed, in particular the drive speed of a speed parameter defining the respective drive device and / or a torque parameter defining the drive power of a respective drive device, of a respective drive device.

In all embodiments, the extrusion device can comprise at least one regulation and / or control device implemented in hardware and / or software, which is set up to regulate and / or control the operation of the first extrusion unit and the second extrusion unit and / or the material introduction device. The regulating and / or control device can in particular be set up to regulate and / or control the operation of the first extrusion unit as a function of or independently of the operation of the second extrusion unit. The regulating and / or control device can, in particular in the sense of a central regulating and / or control device, also be set up to operate individual, several or all further functional units of the extrusion device, i. H. z. B. the operation of the respective drive devices to regulate or control.

Another aspect of the invention described herein relates to a method for extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. The method is characterized in that an extrusion device according to the first aspect of the invention described herein is used to carry out the method. The method comprises in particular the steps of melting an extrusion material, optionally introducing an additional material into the melted extrusion material and discharging a material mixture comprising the melted extrusion material and optionally the additional material onto a substrate for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object. All statements in connection with the extrusion device apply analogously to the method.

• 1 - 5 jeweils eine Prinzipdarstellung einer Extrusionseinrichtung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel.

The invention is explained again on the basis of exemplary embodiments in the drawings. It shows:

• 1 - 5 each a schematic diagram of an extrusion device according to an embodiment.

1 shows a schematic diagram of an extrusion device 1 according to an embodiment in a sectional view.

The extrusion device 1 is set up for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object (not shown). In particular is the extrusion device 1 set up for at least section-wise, possibly complete, layer-wise or layer-wise extrusion-based production of a corresponding three-dimensional object; the extrusion-based production of a corresponding three-dimensional object can be achieved by means of the extrusion device 1 therefore take place at least in sections, if necessary completely, in layers or layers.

The extrusion device 1 is accordingly for the extrusion-based processing of at least one extrusion material (not specified in more detail), ie for the extrusion of at least one extrusion material onto a substrate 2 , set up. An extrusion material is typically to be understood as an extrudable or extrudable plastic material. In one by means of the extrusion device 1 Processable extrusion material is therefore typically an extrudable or extrudable plastic material.

The term “plastic material” can also include mixtures of at least two chemically different plastic materials and / or mixtures of at least one plastic material with at least one additional material.

The extrusion device 1 comprises a first extrusion unit 3 and at least one with the first extrusion unit 3 connectable or connected second extrusion unit 4th .

The first extrusion unit 3 is set up for melting or plasticizing at least one extrusion material. The first extrusion unit 3 includes an extruder chamber 3.1 (first extruder chamber), in which at least one first extruder screw 3.2 is arranged or formed. In principle, in the first extruder chamber 3.1 also several extruder screws 3.2 be arranged or formed. In particular, although not shown in the figures, there is an embodiment of the first extrusion unit 3 conceivable with a twin screw. The first extruder chamber 3.1 is through a housing 3.3 or a housing section of the first extrusion unit 3 limited. The first extruder screw 3.2 is a particularly motorized drive device 3.4 , which is used to produce the first extruder screw 3.2 into a movement, that is to say in particular a rotary movement around one by the first extruder screw 3.2 defined extruder axis A1 , offsetting drive force or a corresponding drive torque is assigned. The first extrusion unit 3 , ie in particular the first extruder chamber 3.1 , typically comprises at least one, optionally nozzle-like or nozzle-shaped, discharge opening 3.5 (first outlet opening), via which extrusion material from the first extrusion unit 3 into the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular in a Extruder chamber 4.1 the second extrusion unit 4th , unsubscribe. The first extrusion unit 3 can also be referred to or regarded as the “main extruder”.

The second extrusion unit 4th includes an extruder chamber 4.1 (second extruder chamber), in which a second extruder screw 4.2 is arranged or formed. In principle, in the second extruder chamber 4.1 also several extruder screws 4.2 be arranged or formed. In particular, although not shown in the figures, there is an embodiment of the second extrusion unit 4th conceivable with a twin screw. The second extruder chamber 4.1 is through a housing 4.3 or a housing section of the second extrusion unit 4th limited. The second extruder screw 4.2 is a particularly motorized drive device 4.4 , which is used to produce a second extruder screw 4.2 into a movement, that is to say in particular a rotary movement around one by the second extruder screw 4.2 defined extruder axis A2 , offsetting drive force or a corresponding drive torque is assigned. The second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular the second extruder chamber 4.1 , comprises at least one, optionally nozzle-like or -shaped, discharge opening 4.5 (second outlet opening), through which extrusion material from the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 can be discharged. The second extrusion unit 4th is corresponding to the discharge of a by means of the first extrusion unit 3 melted extrusion material on a substrate 2 , ie in particular on a building board, on an object, or on a layer or layer of the or an extrusion material. The second extrusion unit 4th is in particular set up to apply a melted extrusion material continuously, ie for example in a continuous material web or in a continuous material strand, or discontinuously, ie for example in a discontinuous material web or in a discontinuous material strand or in several discrete material portions, onto a substrate 2 to carry out. In principle, it is conceivable that the type of discharge of the extrusion material via the second extrusion unit 4th , e.g. B. within a layer and / or between several layers, varies. Thus, discharge parameters, such as. B. discharge rate, depending on various parameters such. B. the web width, web speed, etc. can be varied. The second extrusion unit 4th can also be referred to or regarded as a "secondary extruder".

As can be seen, this enables the connection between the first extrusion unit 3 and the second extrusion unit 4th flowing one through the first extrusion unit 3 at least partially, in particular completely, melted extrusion material from the first extrusion unit 3 , ie in particular the first extruder chamber 3.1 , into the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular in the second extruder chamber 4.1 . The connection between the first extrusion unit 3 and the second extrusion unit 4th is therefore a fluidic connection that allows a flow by means of the first extrusion unit 3 at least partially, in particular completely, melted extrusion material from the first extrusion unit 3 , ie in particular the first extruder chamber 3.1 , into the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular in the second extruder chamber 4.1 , made possible.

The extrusion device 1 also includes one or - as in 1 Dashed, because optional, shown - several of the second extrusion unit 4th assignable or assigned material feeding device (s) 5 .

The material feeding device 5 is for introducing at least one additional material (not shown) into or by means of the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 Set up the extrusion material to be discharged. By means of the material feeding device 5 at least one additional material can therefore be inserted into or by means of the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 Bring in the extrusion material to be discharged. The material feeding device 5 is therefore the same with the second extrusion unit 4th connectable or connected that at least one additional material is in the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular in the second extruder chamber 4.1 , bring in.

The connection between the material feeding device 5 and the second extrusion unit 4th is therefore a fluidic connection that allows at least one additional material to flow into the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular in the second extruder chamber 4.1 , made possible. The connection between the material feeding device 5 and the second extrusion unit 4th basically enables the introduction of gaseous, liquid or solid additional material into the second extrusion unit 4th . The concrete functional or constructive implementation of the connection between the material feeding device 5 and the second extrusion unit 4th is therefore typically selected with a view to a certain state of aggregation or a certain nature of the additional material to be introduced.

The material feeding device 5 can be used as a conveyor 7th which is used to convey at least one additional material, in particular from at least one of the material feeding device 5 assignable or assigned reservoir-like or -shaped collecting device 6th , into the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in the second extruder chamber 4.1 respectively in one located in this Extrusion material, is set up, be formed or at least comprise one such. It is also conceivable that the material feeding device 5 a corresponding funding facility 7th assigned. In all cases, an appropriate funding agency 7th z. B. be designed as a feed pump device or at least include one such. The specific functional or structural design of a corresponding conveyor device 7th typically results from the state of aggregation or the nature and thus from the conveying properties of the into the second extrusion unit 4th additional material to be introduced.

The material feeding device 5 can alternatively or additionally as a metering device 8th which is used to dose a certain amount of an additional material into the second extrusion unit 4th , ie in particular in the second extruder chamber 4.1 or in an extrusion material located therein, be formed, or comprise at least one such. It is also conceivable that the material feeding device 5 a corresponding metering device 8th assigned. In all cases an appropriate metering device can be used 8th z. B. be designed as, optionally pressurizable or pressurized, metering valve device or comprise at least one such. The specific functional or structural design of a corresponding metering device 8th typically results from the physical state or the nature and thus from the metering properties of the in the second extrusion unit 4th additional material to be introduced.

The material feeding device 5 can, as in 1 Shown purely by way of example, a reservoir-like or -shaped collecting device 6th , which are used for collecting by means of the material feeding device 5 into the second extrusion unit 4th Bringable or to be introduced additional material is set up, assignable or assigned. If the collection facility 6th spatially separated from the material feeding device 5 is arranged or formed, exists between the material introduction device 5 and the collector 6th a fluidic connection via which additional material from the collecting device to the material feeding device 5 can flow.

In the embodiment according to 1 As mentioned, it is shown by way of example that the extrusion device 1 several material feeding devices 5 may include. Correspondingly, the second extrusion unit 4th several material feeding devices 5 each for introducing at least one additional material into a by means of the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 molten extrusion material to be discharged are set up, assignable or assigned. A first material introduction device can thereby be used 5 for introducing at least one first additional material into a by means of the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 molten extrusion material to be discharged and at least one further material introduction device 5 for introducing at least one second additional material, which differs from the first additional material in at least one chemical and / or physical parameter, into a by means of the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 be set up to be discharged molten extrusion material. The operation of the material feeding facilities 5 can be controlled via a control device (not shown) implemented in hardware and / or software. This means that in the second extrusion unit 4th if necessary, produce individualized material mixes consisting of an extrusion material and at least one additional material.

An additional material can generally be understood - regardless of its aggregate state or its nature - any material or any material mixture which (s) the chemical and / or physical properties of a means of the extrusion device 1 can affect the three-dimensional object to be produced. In the case of an additional material, it can be, for. B. to a the structural properties of a three-dimensional object to be produced influencing material, that is, for example, a reinforcement material, such as. B. a reinforcing fiber material, and / or a material influencing the optical properties of a three-dimensional object to be produced, that is to say, for example, a dye material, such as. B. a color pigment material act. Alternatively or in addition, other additional materials, such as. B. a foaming material bringing about a foaming process of the extrusion material, that is, for example, a blowing agent material, is conceivable. Mixtures of chemically and / or physically different additional materials are conceivable.

In the embodiment according to 1 is the second extruder axis A2 parallel relative to the first extruder axis A1 arranged and / or aligned. The first extruder axis A1 and the second extruder axis A2 are therefore arranged or aligned in parallel. Sections of the housing are also corresponding 3.3 the first extrusion unit 3 as well as section of the housing 4.3 the second extrusion unit 4th arranged or aligned in parallel.

In the embodiment according to 1 defines the second extruder axis A2 the discharge axis, in which melted extrusion material on a substrate 2 is portable.

In the embodiment according to 2 is the second extruder axis A2 angled, that is, for example, at an angle between 20 and 60 °, relative to the first extruder axis A1 arranged and / or aligned. The first extruder axis A1 and the second extruder axis A2 are therefore arranged or aligned at an angle.

In the embodiment according to 2 defines the first extruder axis A1 the discharge axis, in which melted extrusion material on a substrate 2 is portable. The second extruder screw 4.2 is therefore at such an angle relative to the first extruder screw 3.2 arranged or aligned that the discharge axis, in which melted extrusion material on a substrate 2 can be discharged with the first extruder axis A1 flees. It also follows from this that the outlet opening 4.5 , via which melted extrusion material onto a substrate 2 can be discharged, in this embodiment with the first extruder axis A1 flees.

It can also be seen in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG 2 the second extrusion unit 4th at least one material feeding device 5 assigned.

In connection with the embodiment according to 2 , but in no way limited to this, is an embodiment of at least one with a second extruder screw designed as a hollow screw 4.2 cooperating material feeding device 5 conceivable. A corresponding material feeding device 5 can therefore be set up, an additional material, such. B. a fiber material, e.g. B. from a reservoir-like or -shaped collecting device 6th to be introduced into the cavity of a hollow screw, via which the additional material on the cavity exit side into a by means of the second extrusion unit 4th on an underground 2 extrusion material to be discharged can be introduced. Specifically, such z. B. a fiber material, ie in particular a continuous fiber material, can be introduced into a melt flow via a corresponding hollow screw. The same applies to additional materials that are not fiber material.

Based on the embodiments according to 1 , 2 are therefore purely exemplary differently configured design options for the extrusion device 1 which can be seen in particular through the arrangement or alignment of the respective extruder axes A1 , A2 and consequently through the arrangement or alignment of the respective extruder screws 3.2 , 4.2 , the respective extruder chambers 3.1 , 4.1 as well as the respective enclosing housing 3.3 , 4.3 or define housing sections.

The first extrusion unit 3 and / or the second extrusion unit 4th and / or the material feeding device 5 may be structural components of an extrusion assembly (not shown). The first extrusion unit can therefore 3 and / or second extrusion unit 4th and / or the material feeding device 5 be structurally compact combined in a corresponding extrusion assembly. A corresponding extrusion assembly can be designed as a print head or in the manner of such a head.

It applies to all exemplary embodiments that the first extrusion unit 3 and / or the second extrusion unit 4th dependent or independent of one another in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom of movement relative to a subsurface 2 and / or can be mounted so as to be movable relative to an object. The first extrusion unit 3 and / or the second extrusion unit 4th can therefore be assigned a, in particular motorized, drive device (not shown) via which the first extrusion unit 3 and / or the second extrusion unit 4th into a translational and / or rotational movement relative to a subsurface 2 and / or can generate a drive force displacing an object or a corresponding drive torque. A corresponding drive device can be part of a mounting device (not shown) which is used for movably mounting the first extrusion unit 3 and / or the second extrusion unit 4th in at least one translational and / or rotational degree of freedom of movement relative to a subsurface 2 and / or is set up for an object. A corresponding storage device can, for. B. be designed as a single or multi-axis robot device or include such.

• Grundsätzlich gilt, dass die zweite Extrusionseinheit 4 oder wenigstens eine zweite Extrusionseinheit 4, wie beispielhaft in dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß 3 gezeigt, ausrichtungs- und/oder positionsfest mit der ersten Extrusionseinheit 3 verbindbar oder verbunden sein kann, oder die zweite Extrusionseinheit 4 oder wenigstens eine zweite Extrusionseinheit 4, wie beispielhaft in dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß 4 gezeigt, ausrichtungs- und/oder positionsvariabel mit der ersten Extrusionseinheit 3 verbindbar oder verbunden sein kann.

With regard to a spatially separate arrangement of the first and the second extrusion unit 3 , 4th respectively the respective housing 3.3 , 4.3 the first and second extrusion units 3 , 4th are available for the structural connection of the first and the second extrusion unit 3 , 4th different conceivable embodiments, which in particular in connection with the in the 3 , 4th illustrated embodiments are exemplarily explained in more detail:

• Basically, the second extrusion unit 4th or at least one second extrusion unit 4th , as exemplified in the embodiment according to 3 shown, fixed in alignment and / or in position with the first extrusion unit 3 can be connected or connected, or the second extrusion unit 4th or at least one second extrusion unit 4th , as exemplified in the embodiment according to 4th shown, orientation and / or position variable with the first extrusion unit 3 connectable or connected.

In the in 3 shown variant exists between the housing 3.3 or a housing section of the first extrusion unit 3 and the case 4.3 or a housing section of the second extrusion unit 4th a rigid connection, which is in an alignment and / or positionally fixed connection of the second extrusion unit 4th with the first extrusion unit 3 , and vice versa, results. In this variant there is no change in the orientation and / or position of the second extrusion unit 3 relative to the first extrusion unit 4th possible the second extrusion unit 4th is in a defined orientation and / or position relative to the first extrusion unit 3 .

In the in 3 The variant shown is one between the first and the second extrusion unit 3 , 4th switched arranged or formed connecting element 9 rigidly designed. The connecting element 9 can e.g. B. be designed as a rigid line element, preferably as a tubular element.

In principle it is also conceivable that the first extrusion unit 3 and the second extrusion unit 4th in a common housing structure of the extrusion device 1 or a common housing structure of a corresponding extrusion assembly are arranged or formed. The housing 3.3 , 4.3 or housing sections of the first and second extrusion unit 3 , 4th can therefore, as in the embodiments according to 1 , 2 shown, components of a higher-level housing structure of the extrusion device 1 respectively form a common housing structure of a corresponding extrusion assembly.

In the in 4th shown variant exists between the housing 3.3 or a housing section of the first extrusion unit 3 and the case 4.3 or a housing section of the second extrusion unit 4th no rigid connection, which in an alignment and / or position-variable connection of the second extrusion unit 4th with the first extrusion unit 3 , and vice versa, results. In this variant there is a change in the orientation and / or position of the second extrusion unit 4th relative to the first extrusion unit 3 possible; the second extrusion unit 4th is in several defined orientations and / or positions relative to the first extrusion unit 3 spendable. The second extrusion unit 4th or at least one second extrusion unit 4th is here movable in at least one degree of freedom of movement relative to the first extrusion unit 3 stored.

In the in 4th The variant shown is one between the first and the second extrusion unit 3 , 4th switched arranged or formed connecting element 9 flexibly trained. The connecting element 9 can e.g. B. be designed as a flexible line element, preferably as a hose element.

Based on the embodiments according to 1 - 4th it can therefore be seen that the connection between the first extrusion unit 3 and the second extrusion unit 4th - basically regardless of whether the second extrusion unit 4th Alignment and / or position fixed or alignment and / or position variable with the first extrusion unit 3 connected - can be direct or indirect. For variants with an indirect connection, the first extrusion unit 3 via a connecting element 9 with the second extrusion unit 4th connectable or connected. The connecting element 9 is set up to flow by means of the first extrusion unit 3 melted extrusion material from the extruder chamber 3.1 the first extrusion unit 3 into the extruder chamber 4.1 the second extrusion unit 4th to form enabling flow connection.

In principle, a corresponding connecting element 9 - as in 3 by the double arrows P1 Shown purely by way of example - be designed to be extendable in all exemplary embodiments, for example telescopic or telescopic. An extendable connector 9 allows the distance between the first extrusion unit 3 and a second extrusion unit 4th adjust or change in at least one spatial direction. This can e.g. B. be useful for the production of objects with varying object cross-sections.

A corresponding connecting element 9 can in all embodiments an in 3 purely schematically indicated locking device 11 which is used to at least partially block the through the connecting element 9 formed flow connection is set up, assignable or assigned. The flow connection between the first extrusion unit 3 and the or a second extrusion unit 4th can therefore be blocked and / or unblocked as required and thus selectively. Such is the need to introduce an additional material into the extrusion unit or into a second extrusion unit 4th possible.

In the in 3 The embodiment shown has a respective locking device 11 exemplary one in the by the double arrow P2 indicated trajectory, in particular reversible, movably mounted locking element 11.1 on. The same applies to the other exemplary embodiments, ie especially the in 4th Shown embodiment.

The blocking device can comprise at least one blocking element (not shown) which is positioned between a blocking position in which a flow by means of the first extrusion unit 3 melted extrusion material from the extruder chamber 3.1 the first extrusion unit 3 into the extruder chamber 4.1 the or a second extrusion unit 4th is not possible, and at least one non-blocking position in which a flow by means of the first extrusion unit 3 melted extrusion material from the extruder chamber 3.1 the first extrusion unit 3 into the extruder chamber 4.1 the or a second extrusion unit 4th is possible, is movably mounted. The locking element can in the locked position, for. B. in sections, in particular completely, in a flow cross-section of a connecting element 9 be moved. A drive device (not shown), in particular a motorized one, can be assigned to the blocking element, which is set up to generate a drive force or a corresponding drive torque that moves the blocking element into the blocking position and / or into the non-blocking position. The control of the operation of the drive device and, as a result, the control of movements of the locking element, typically takes place via a control device (not shown) assigned to it and implemented in hardware and / or software.

• Die wenigstens zwei zweiten Extrusionseinheiten 4 können gleichmäßig oder ungleichmäßig verteilt relativ zu der ersten Extrusionseinheit 4 angeordnet und/oder ausgerichtet sein. Insbesondere sind bauraumoptimierte Anordnungen bzw. Ausrichtungen der zweiten Extrusionseinheiten 4 relativ zu der ersten Extrusionseinheit 3 und relativ zueinander möglich.

the 3 - 5 each show exemplary embodiments of the extrusion device 1 with at least two and therefore with several second extrusion units 4th . The following statements apply to this:

• The at least two second extrusion units 4th can be distributed uniformly or unevenly relative to the first extrusion unit 4th be arranged and / or aligned. In particular, space-optimized arrangements or orientations of the second extrusion units are 4th relative to the first extrusion unit 3 and possible relative to each other.

Based on the embodiments according to 3 , 4th it can be seen that a first second extrusion unit 4th , ie for example the left second extrusion unit 4th such relative to the first extrusion unit 3 can be arranged and / or aligned that extends over the first second extrusion unit 4th a first object and / or a first object section can be produced, and at least one further second extrusion unit 4th , ie for example the right second extrusion unit 4th such relative to the first extrusion unit 3 can be arranged and / or aligned that extends over the further second extrusion unit 4th another object and / or another object section can be produced.

Based on the embodiment according to 5 which, in contrast to the other figures, shows a basic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an extrusion device 1 shows in a plan view, the at least two second extrusion units 4th - In the embodiment according to 5 are purely by way of example four second extrusion units 4th shown - particularly with respect to one by the extruder screw 3.2 the first extrusion unit 3 defined extruder axis A1 , concentric relative to the first extrusion unit 3 be arranged and / or aligned. The concentric arrangement of the second extrusion units 4th represents only one exemplary possible arrangement of the second extrusion units 4th represent.

Regardless of their arrangement or orientation, the at least two second extrusion units 4th be mounted movably relative to one another in at least one degree of freedom of movement. A corresponding movable mounting of the respective second extrusion units 4th can e.g. B. be appropriate to a second extrusion unit 4th temporarily (further) relative to a first second extrusion unit 4th to move, e.g. further from an underground 2 to be spaced apart by means of the first second extrusion unit 4th not to impair the discharge result achieved.

The at least two second extrusion units can also be independent of their arrangement or alignment 4th in at least one the discharge properties of the over these onto a substrate 2 dispensable melted extrusion material same or different. It is therefore possible to use at least two second extrusion units 4th each individualized material mix as required, consisting of an extrusion material and at least one additional material, on a substrate 2 deliver.

It is Z. B. conceivable that the at least two second extrusion units 4th in at least one geometrical-constructive parameter, in particular one dimension parameter defining the dimensions of a respective discharge opening and / or one the shape of the respective discharge opening 4.5 defining shape parameters, a respective discharge opening 4.5 , over which each on a subsurface 2 dispensable melted extrusion material on a substrate 2 dispensable, same or different. As an alternative or in addition, it is conceivable that the at least two second extrusion units 4th in at least one operating parameter influencing the discharge speed, in particular the drive speed of a respective drive device 4.4 speed parameter defining and / or the drive power of a respective drive device 4.4 defining torque parameters, a respective drive device 4.4 same or different.

The extrusion device 1 can, albeit alone in 1 shown, in all embodiments a hardware and / or software implemented regulating and / or control device 10 include those for regulating and / or controlling the operation of the first extrusion unit 3 and the second extrusion unit (s) 4th and / or the material feeding device (s) 5 is set up. The regulating and / or control device 10 can in particular be set up to operate the first extrusion unit 4th depending on or independent of the operation of the or a second extrusion unit 4th to regulate and / or control. The regulating and / or control device 10 can, in particular in the sense of a central regulating and / or control device, also be set up to operate individual, several or all further functional units of the extrusion device 1 , that is, for example, the operation of the respective drive devices 3.4 , 4.4 to regulate or control.

All of the above statements apply analogously to a variant of the extrusion device 1 with several first extrusion units 3 .

All of the above statements apply analogously, although not shown, to exemplary embodiments of the first extrusion unit 3 and / or the second extrusion unit 4th with several extruder screws 3.2 , 4.2 and one or more outlet openings 3.5 , 4.5 .
With the exemplary embodiments of an extrusion device described in connection with the figures 1 a method for extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object can be implemented. The method is characterized in that an extrusion device is used to carry out the method 1 is used according to at least one embodiment. The method comprises in particular the steps of melting an extrusion material, optionally introducing an additional material into the melted extrusion material and discharging a material mixture comprising the melted extrusion material and optionally the additional material onto a substrate 2 for the extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object.

Individual, several or all aspects and / or features described in connection with a specific exemplary embodiment can be transferred to individual, several or all aspects and / or features described in connection with at least one further exemplary embodiment. The exemplary embodiments according to the figures can therefore be combined with one another.

Claims (20)

Extrusion device (1) for extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, comprising: - At least one first extrusion unit (3) which is set up to melt an extrusion material, - At least one second extrusion unit (4) which can be or is connected to the first extrusion unit (3) and which is set up to discharge an extrusion material melted by means of the at least one first extrusion unit (3) onto a substrate (2), - At least one of the at least one second extrusion unit (4) assignable or assigned material introduction device (5), which is set up to introduce at least one additional material into an extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate (2) by means of the at least one second extrusion unit (4). Extrusion device according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the at least one first extrusion unit (3) comprises a first extruder screw (3.2) defining a first extruder axis (A1), and the at least one second extrusion unit (4) comprises a second extruder screw (4.2) defining a second extruder axis (A2) comprises, wherein the second extruder axis (A2) is arranged and / or aligned parallel or at an angle relative to the first extruder axis (A1). Extrusion device according to Claim 2 , characterized in that the second extruder axis (A2) is arranged and / or aligned at an angle relative to the first extruder axis (A1), the first extruder axis (A1) of the at least one first extrusion unit (3) having a discharge axis in which melted extrusion material a subsurface (2) can be discharged is defined. Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one second extrusion unit (4) or at least one second extrusion unit (4) can be or is connected to the at least one first extrusion unit (3) in a fixed orientation and / or position, or the at least a second extrusion unit (4) or at least one second extrusion unit (4) can be or is connected to the at least one first extrusion unit (3) in an orientation and / or position-variable manner. Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one second extrusion unit (4) or at least one second extrusion unit (4) is movably mounted relative to the at least one first extrusion unit (3). Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one first extrusion unit (3) can be or is connected to the at least one second extrusion unit (4) via at least one connecting element (9), the at least one connecting element (4) being set up , a flow of an extrusion material melted by means of the at least one first extrusion unit (3) from an extruder chamber (3.1) of the at least one first extrusion unit (3) into an extruder chamber (4.1) of the at least one second extrusion unit (4) or into an extruder chamber (4.1 ) to form at least one second extrusion unit (4) enabling flow connection. Extrusion device according to Claim 6 , characterized in that the at least one connecting element (9) is rigidly designed, in particular as a rigid conduit element, preferably as a pipe element, or the at least one connecting element (9) is designed to be flexible, in particular as a flexible conduit element, preferably as Hose element, is formed. Extrusion device according to Claim 6 or 7th , characterized by a locking device which can be assigned or is assigned to the at least one connecting element (9), which is set up for at least partially locking the flow connection formed by the at least one connecting element (9). Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one second extrusion unit (4) has a plurality of material introduction devices (5), each of which is used to introduce at least one additional material into a substrate (2) to be discharged by means of the at least one second extrusion unit (4) melted extrusion material are set up, assignable or assigned. Extrusion device according to Claim 9 , characterized in that a first material introduction device (5) is set up for introducing at least one first additional material into a molten extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate (2) by means of the at least one second extrusion unit (4), and at least one further material introduction device (5) for introduction at least one second additional material, which differs from the first additional material in at least one chemical and / or physical parameter, is set up in a melted extrusion material to be discharged onto a substrate (2) by means of the at least one second extrusion unit (4). Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one first extrusion unit (3) and the at least one second extrusion unit (4) are arranged or formed in a common housing structure of the extrusion device (1). Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by several second extrusion units (4). Extrusion device according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the plurality of second extrusion units (4) are arranged and / or aligned in a uniformly or non-uniformly distributed manner relative to the at least one first extrusion unit. Extrusion device according to Claim 13 , characterized in that the plurality of second extrusion units (4), in particular with respect to an extruder axis (A1) defined by an extruder screw (3.2) of the at least one first extrusion unit (3), are arranged concentrically relative to the at least one first extrusion unit (3) and / or aligned. Extrusion device according to one of the Claims 12 until 14th , characterized in that a first second extrusion unit (4) is arranged and / or aligned relative to the at least one first extrusion unit (3) in such a way that a first object and / or a first object section is produced via the first second extrusion unit (4) and at least one further second extrusion unit (4) is arranged and / or aligned relative to the at least one first extrusion unit (3) in such a way that a further object and / or a further object section can be produced via the further second extrusion unit (4) . Extrusion device according to one of the Claims 12 until 15th , characterized in that at least two second extrusion units (4) are mounted so as to be movable relative to one another in at least one degree of freedom of movement. Extrusion device according to one of the Claims 12 until 16 , characterized in that at least two second extrusion units (4) differ in at least one of the discharge properties of the melted extrusion material which can be discharged via them onto a substrate (2). Extrusion device according to Claim 17 , characterized in that the at least two second extrusion units (4) are in at least one geometrical-constructive parameter, in particular a dimension parameter defining the dimensions of a respective discharge opening and / or a shape parameter defining the shape of the respective discharge opening, a respective discharge opening (4.5), via which the melted extrusion material that can be discharged onto a substrate (2) can be discharged onto a substrate (2), and / or in at least one operating parameter influencing the discharge speed, in particular a speed parameter defining the drive speed of a respective drive device (4.4) and / or a torque parameter defining the drive power of a respective drive device (4.4), of a respective drive device (4.4). Extrusion device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one regulating and / or control device (10) which is set up to regulate and / or control the operation of the at least one first extrusion unit (3) and the at least one second extrusion unit (4). Method for extrusion-based production of at least one three-dimensional object, characterized in that an extrusion device (1) according to one of the preceding claims is used to carry out the method.

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