Extrusion of a mix containing a pharmaceutically active agent can be achieved using a plasticizing excipient in an amount sufficient to act as plasticizer and also act as lubricant, thereby avoiding the need for inclusion of a lubricant. The methodology operates to utilize the processing resources of a multiplier-accumulator combination on a cooperative basis, with the result that at least one adder stage in such a combination can be eliminated. An edge style detector is configured to identify a first edge end and a second edge end. Each of the pin boss bridges extends axially to a lower end which is opposite of the crown portion and has a rib with an increased thickness at its lower end. This signal is amplified and is subjected to AD conversion again, and the same operation is repeated. The carbon dioxide is drawn away.