VIEWING WINDOW ASSEMBLIES

BACKGROUND

[0001] This patent application claims priority from provisional patent application serial no. 63/318,981 , filed March 11, 2022; and from provisional patent application serial no 63/333,346 filed April 21, 2022; each of which is incorporated by reference herein it its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] At times, various processes (e.g., such as 3D printing) utilize energy beam(s) (e.g., laser beams) at an intensity and/or wavelength that are harmful to user tissue(s). The process may take place in an enclosure, e.g., isolated from the ambient environment. A viewing window may be bundled as a viewing window assembly comprising a medium configured to absorb most of the energy beam, e.g., such that any harm to the user is substantially avoided (e.g., prevented) while the viewer looks into the enclosure, e.g., during processing by the energy beam(s). At times, the radiation of the energy beam(s) may be harmful to the absorbent medium, e g., causing it to be defective. Such defects may present a harmful working condition to the user. The inventions disclosed herein, such as those with respect to the viewing window assembly, may or may not relate to 3D printing.

[0003] Three-dimensional (3D) printing (e g., additive manufacturing) is a process for making a 3D object of any shape from a design. The design may be in the form of a data source such as an electronic data source, or may be in the form of a hard copy. The hard copy may be a two-dimensional representation of a 3D object. The data source may be an electronic 3D model. 3D printing may be accomplished through an additive process in which successive layers of material are laid down one on top of another. This process may be controlled (e.g., computer controlled, manually controlled, or both). A 3D printer can be an industrial robot.

[0004] 3D printing can generate custom parts. A variety of materials can be used in a 3D printing process including elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, elemental carbon, or polymeric material. In some 3D printing processes (e.g., additive manufacturing), a first layer of hardened material is formed (e.g., by welding powder), and thereafter successive layers of hardened material are added one by one, wherein each new layer of hardened material is added on a pre-formed layer of hardened material, until the entire designed three-dimensional structure (3D object) is layer-wise materialized.

[0005] 3D models may be created with a computer aided design package, via 3D scanner, or manually. The manual modeling process of preparing geometric data for 3D computer graphics may be similar to plastic arts, such as sculpting or animating. 3D scanning is a process of analyzing and collecting digital data on the shape and appearance of a real object (e.g., real-life object). Based on this data, 3D models of the scanned object can be produced.

[0006] A number of 3D printing processes are currently available. They may differ in the manner layers are deposited to create the materialized 3D structure (e.g., hardened 3D structure). They may vary in the material or materials that are used to materialize the designed 3D object. Some methods melt, sinter, or soften material to produce the layers drat form the 3D object. Examples for 3D printing methods include selective laser melting (SLM), selective laser sintering (SLS), direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) or fused deposition modeling (FDM). Other methods cure liquid materials using different technologies such as stereo lithography (SLA). In the method of laminated object manufacturing (LOM), thin layers (made inter alia of paper, polymer, or metal) are cut to shape and joined together.

[0007] The 3D object(s) may be printed in a 3D printing system. The printing system may include a processing chamber which facilitates the printing. The processing chamber may have an internal environment that is different than the ambient environment external to the processing chamber. The internal environment may be, e.g., harmful to a user. The external environment may be, e.g., harmful to the printing process. The 3D printing may require isolation of an internal environment of the processing chamber from the ambient environment and/or from a user. The user may want to view, inspect, manipulate, or otherwise control one or more aspects of the internal environment of the processing chamber, e.g., before, during and/or after the printing. For example, the user may want to facilitate unpacking of the 3D object(s) from a material bed in which they arc printed. For example, the user may want to manipulate one or more components of various apparatuses in the processing chamber, e.g., during maintenance. Viewing windows may be utilized to allow a user to view the isolated internal environment of the processing chamber. The windows should withstand the operating conditions of the processing chamber in a way that facilitates a safe working environment for tire user.

SUMMARY

[0008] The present disclosure describes ways of overcoming the abovementioned hardships. For example, application of a coating that reflects the energy beam(s) directed towards the viewing window assembly, may shelter the absorbent medium (and the user) from potential harm of the energy beam’s radiation. Such coating may be designed to reflect radiation reflected from a surface in the enclosure towards the viewing window assembly. The surface in the enclosure may comprise an exposed surface of the material bed, e.g., including from any 3D object portions exposed, or protruding from, the exposed surface of the material bed. The coating may be a thin layer of a substance covering a surface, e.g., a planar surface as part of the viewing window assembly. For example, the window assembly may comprise panes. The coating may be a thin layer with respect to a thickness of a pane on which the coating is disposed.

[0009] In another aspect, a device for reflecting radiation, the device comprises: a window assembly; and a coating disposed on a planar surface of the window assembly configured for disposition at a face (e g., side) of an enclosure, the enclosure comprising an interior space, the enclosure configured to enclosure (e.g., having, or comprising during operation) a first radiation being reflected onto the window assembly toward an environment external to the enclosure, the first radiation reflected towards the window assembly being at an angle range (I) including at most (e.g., including a maximal range of, or maximally including angles at a range of) from about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar surface of the window assembly (ii) a floor plane of the enclosure or (iii) a normal to the planar surface of the window assembly and a floor plane of the enclosure, (II) comprising an angle of reflection of the first radiation that (a) impinges on the floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the first radiation on the floor plane of the enclosure and (b) is subsequently reflected towards the window assembly, or (III) a combination of (I) and (II); the coating being configured to (e.g., substantially) reflect tire first radiation away from the planar surface of the window assembly and into the interior space of the enclosure; and the coating being configured to facilitate viewing at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure through the window assembly in a second radiation including at least a portion of a visible spectrum viewed by a user disposed externally to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the coating comprises deposited layers. In some embodiments, the angle range includes at most (e.g., including a maximal range of, or maximally including angles at a range of) from about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar (e.g., and exposed) surface of the window assembly, (ii) the floor plane of the enclosure, or (iii) with respect to (i) and (ii) such as when a normal to the planar surface of the window assembly is parallel to the floor plane of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle from about 45 degrees to about 80 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar (e.g., and exposed) surface of the window assembly, (ii) a floor plane of the enclosure, or (iii) with respect to (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle from about 50 degrees to about 70 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar (e.g., and exposed) surface of the window assembly, (ii) the floor plane of the enclosure, or (iii) with respect to (i) and (ii) such as when a normal to the planar surface of the window assembly is parallel to the floor plane of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of the first radiation that (a) impinges on the floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the first radiation on the floor plane of the enclosure and (b) is subsequently reflected towards the window assembly. In some embodiments, the first radiation is an energy beam utilized to generate (e.g., print) one or more three- dimensional objects while impinging on an exposed surface in the processing area. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of an energy beam that impinges on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beam on the floor plane, the energy beam being the first radiation. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of energy beams that impinge on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beams on the floor plane, the energy beam comprising the first radiation. In some embodiments, the energy beams comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 64 energy beams. In some embodiments, the window assembly is disposed in a door of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the door is configured to facilitate accessing at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure while separating an atmosphere of the enclosure from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the door comprises a glovebox. In some embodiments, the window assembly is a circular or a rectangular window assembly. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a convex geometric shape comprising a rectangle or an ellipse. In some embodiments, the rectangle comprises a square, and wherein the ellipse comprises a circle. In some embodiments, the rectangle comprises angled edges. In some embodiments, the rectangle is devoid of sharp edges. In some embodiments, the window assembly is part of (i) a set of window assemblies and/or (ii) a set comprising a window assembly and an opaque pane. In some embodiments, the opaque pane may comprise at least one mark (e.g., a writing, alphanumeric characters, an amorphic mark, or a picture). In some embodiments, the set of window assemblies comprises at least three window assemblies. In some embodiments, the set of window assemblies comprises at least one opaque pane (e.g., at least two opaque panes). In some embodiments, the set of window assemblies comprises circular window assemblies. In some embodiments, the enclosure comprises a processing chamber of a three-dimensional printing system. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to enclose (e.g., comprises during operation) a material bed from which one or more three-dimensional objects are printed in a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the first radiation is reflected from an exposed surface of the material bed and/or from any protruding object from the exposed surface of the material bed. In some embodiments, the device comprises, or is operatively coupled to, a build platform. In some embodiments, the material bed generated on the surface of a build platform. In some embodiments, the build platform comprises at least one fundamental length scale having a value of at least about 300mm, 350mm, 400mm, 600mm, 1000mm, 1200, 1500, or 1750 mm. In some embodiments, the material bed generated on the surface of the build platform and supported by the build platform comprises a weight of at least about 1000 kg. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate the three-dimensional printing by facilitating vertical translation of the build platform comprising an error in vertical positioning of the vertical translation at most about 10%, 5%, or 2% of the vertical translation of the build platform. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate the three-dimensional printing that comprises deposition of pre-transformed material on a target surface. In some embodiments, the target surface comprises (i) an exposed surface of a material bed or (ii) a surface of the build platform. In some embodiments, the one or more three-dimensional objects comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, an allotrope of elemental carbon, polymer, or a resin. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to enclosure an atmosphere having a positive pressure (e.g. overpressure) relative to an ambient pressure external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the window assembly is configured to facilitate enclosing an atmosphere that differs by one or more characteristics from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics comprise temperature, gas speed, gas direction, pressure, or a concentration of a reactive species. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to operatively couple to a gas conveyance system to form an atmosphere in the enclosure that differs from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure by one or more characteristics. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics comprise temperature, gas speed, gas direction, pressure, or a concentration of a reactive species. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to enclosure an atmosphere having a lower concentration of a reactive species with respect to concentration of the reactive species in an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the reactive species comprise oxygen or water. In some embodiments, the reactive species reacts with a material during a process occurring in the enclosure. In some embodiments, the reactive species reacts with a material comprising a stating material. In some embodiments, the process comprises transforming the starting material, e.g., in a three-dimensional printing process. In some embodiments, transforming the starting material comprising fusing or connecting. In some embodiments, fusing comprises melting or sintering. In some embodiments, the process utilizes the first radiation. In some embodiments, the process comprises printing one or more three-dimensional objects in a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the process comprises connecting a starting material. In some embodiments, connecting comprises fusing. In some embodiments, fusing comprises melting or sintering. In some embodiments, the starting material comprises elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, an allotrope of elemental carbon, polymer, or a resin. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to allow viewing during continuous use of the three-dimensional printing system under normal operating conditions for printing the one or more three-dimensional objects for at least about a year, five years, ten years, fifteen years, twenty years, or fifty years, wherein normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the coaling. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises one or more panes, wherein normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes, the damage (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from the at least one pane, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the normal operating conditions exclude maintaining or replacing the window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes. In some embodiments, the normal operating conditions exclude maintaining or replacing the window assembly. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to allow viewing during continuous use of the three-dimensional printing system under normal operating conditions for printing the one or more three-dimensional objects having an accumulating number of layers of at least about 100K, lOOOK, 5000K, or 10000K, wherein K designates one thousand layers, wherein normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the coating. In some embodiments, normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the window assembly. In some embodiments, the user is an average human. In some embodiments, the first radiation comprises a laser beam. In some embodiments, the laser beam is generated by a (e.g., laser diode pumped) fiber laser. In some embodiments, the laser beam is a corona beam (e.g., having a doughnut shaped footprint). In some embodiments, the first radiation has a power of at least about 150 Watts, 250 Watts, 750 Watts, or 1000 Watts. In some embodiments, the first radiation and/or the second radiation comprises electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, the first radiation has a wavelength of at least 900 nanometers to at most about 2500 nanometers. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to reflect at least about 70%, 80%, or 90% of the first radiation directed towards the window assembly. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to reflect at least about 95%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the first radiation directed towards the window assembly. In some embodiments, the at least the portion of a visible spectrum is at least a first portion of a visible spectrum, wherein the coating is configured to at least partially absorb at least a second portion of the visible spectrum, wherein the visible spectrum is visible to the user. In some embodiments, the at least the second portion of the visible spectrum comprises green radiation, yellow radiation, or orange radiation. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to reflect a percentage of the first radiation directed towards the window assembly at least such that the first radiation that is not reflected from the window assembly is at a level unharmful to the user In some embodiments, the window assembly is tilted from (i) a normal to the floor plane and/or (ii) the face of the enclosure, the face being planar. In some embodiments, the window assembly is titled by at least about 1 degrees, 5 degrees, 10 degrees, or 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a layer configmed to absorb the first radiation, which layer is disposed between the user and the coating. In some embodiments, the layer comprises a polymer or a resin. In some embodiments, the layer comprises polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the layer is configured to lower an intensity of the first radiation transmitted through the window assembly at least about 5, 10, or 12 orders of magnitude. In some embodiments, the layer is configmed absorb at least about 5, 10, or 12 orders of magnitude of an intensity of the first radiation reflected onto the window assembly. In some embodiments, the layer is configmed to transmit the at least a portion of a visible spectrum. In some embodiments, the layer is configmed to transmit at least a blue light. In some embodiments, the layer is configmed to transmit visible light sufficient for the user to view the at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the viewing window assembly layer comprises one or more panes, and wherein the layer is a pane of the one or more panes, or is disposed on a pane of the one or more panes. In some embodiments, the device includes, or is operatively coupled to one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are configured to sense the damage (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from at least one pane of the window assembly, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are configured to sense the damage to the window assembly in real time, e.g., during operation such as during irradiation of the first radiation. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are sensors configured to sense the damage on combination of their data. In some embodiments, at least two of the sensors are of a different ty pe. In some embodiments, at least two of the sensors arc of the same type disposed at different locations with respect to the window assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise an optical sensor, a (e.g., gas) flow sensor, a pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, a humidity sensor, or a hydrogen sensor. In some embodiments, the optical sensor is configured to sense X-ray radiation. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more sensors is disposed in the enclosure. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a microscope, e.g., comprising an optical microscope or an electronic microscope. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a transparent medium configured to transmit the at least a portion of a visible spectrum therethrough. In some embodiments, the transparent medium having thermal conductivity higher than glass or higher than fused silica. In some embodiments, the transparent medium comprises glass, quartz, fused silica, or sapphire. In some embodiments, the first radiation comprises specularly (i.e. , in a specular manner) reflected radiation. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a holder, an insulator, a material configure to absorb the first radiation, a material transparent to the at least the portion of the visible spectrum, or the coating. In some embodiments, the insulator comprises an O-ring. In some embodiments, the insulator comprises a compressible material that is compressed in the window assembly. In some embodiments, the insulator comprises a polymer or a resin. In some embodiments, the coating is disposed on the window assembly such that it faces the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the enclosure is equipped with at least one optical window and with the window assembly that is a viewing window for the user, e g., at least one of the window assembly. In some embodiments, an optical window (of the at least one optical window) is configured to facilitate ingress of the first irradiation into the enclosure such as for processing purposes, e.g., without being (e.g., substantially) attenuated while passing through the optical window. For example, the optical window may facilitate the first radiation to print the one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure, e.g., without being (e.g., substantially) attenuated while passing through the optical window. In some embodiments, configuration of the optical window with respect to the enclosure does not allow the user to view therethrough, e.g., during normal operation such as during irradiation of the first radiation for processing purposes taking place in the enclosure. In some embodiments, the coating forms an exposed surface of the window assembly. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a plurality of planar surfaces, and therein tire coating forms a surface of an internal planar surface of the plurality of planar surfaces, e.g., such that the coating is disposed within the window assembly. In some embodiments, the coating acts at least in part as a beam splitter. In some embodiments, the coating comprises a dielectric, a dichroic optical material, a metal, or a metalloid. In some embodiments, the coating excludes at least material selected from the group consisting of a liquid, a gas, or a semi-solid (e.g., gel). For example, the coating may exclude a gel. In some embodiments, the coating is deposited using layer deposition, e.g., using spattering. In some embodiments, the dielectric coating comprises fluoride compounds, or metal oxides. In some embodiments, the metalloid comprises germanium. In some embodiments, the metal comprises an elemental metal. In some embodiments, the elemental metal comprises silver, aluminum, or gold. In some embodiments, the three-dimensional printing system comprises a build module configured to (e.g., reversibly) engage with the processing chamber, the build module is further configured to accommodate (e.g., during printing) one or more three-dimensional objects disposed above a vertically translating build plate, the build plate being configured to (e.g., during printing) vertically translate using a translation mechanism comprising an arm (e.g., bent arm) disposed externally to the build module. In some embodiments, the device comprises or is operatively coupled to a layer dispensing mechanism comprising a material remover, and a material dispenser. In some embodiments, the device further comprises or is configured to operatively coupled to a (material) remover configured to remove deposited starting (e.g., pretransformed) material, e.g., to generate a planar layer of starting material as part of a material bed. In some embodiments, the remover is operatively coupled to an attractive force source sufficient to attract the pretransformed material from the target surface. In some embodiments, the attractive force comprises a magnetic, electric, electrostatic, or vacuum source. In some embodiments, the attractive force comprises a vacuum source. In some embodiments, the device comprises or is configured to operatively couple to a recycling system configured to (i) recycle at least a fraction of a portion of the pre-transformed material removed by the remover and/or (ii) provide at least a portion of the pre -transformed material utilized by a material dispenser configured to dispense the starting material. In some embodiments, the portion removed by the remover is at least about 70%, 50% or 30% of the dispensed starting material by the (material) dispenser. In some embodiments, the fraction recycled is at least about 70% or 90% of the portion removed by the remover. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate deposition of starting material on the target surface at least in part by layerwise deposition. In some embodiments, the device is configured to deposit starting material comprising powder material. In some embodiments, the device is configured to deposit the starting (e.g., pre-transformed) material comprising elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, or an allotrope of carbon. In some embodiments, the device is configured to deposit pre-transformed material comprising a polymer or a resin. In some embodiments, the device is configured to enclose (e.g., and maintain) in the interior space a positive pressure atmosphere relative to an ambient pressure of an ambient atmosphere external to the device. In some embodiments, the device is configured to enclose (e.g., and maintain) in the interior space an atmosphere depleted of a reactive agent relative to its concentration in an ambient atmosphere external to the device, the reactive agent being configured to react with a starting material of the three-dimensional printing at least during the three-dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the reactive agent comprises oxygen, or water. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a seal. In some embodiments, the seal is included, or is operatively coupled to a door. In some embodiments, the seal is gas tight. In some embodiments, the seal is a hermetic seal. In some embodiments, the seal is configured to facilitate retaining an internal atmosphere in the internal space of the enclosure for a time period, the internal atmosphere being different from an ambient atmosphere external to the build module. In some embodiments, the seal is configured to facilitate retaining for a time period (i) a positive pressure within the internal space relative to an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure, (ii) a reactive agent at a concentration lower than its concentration in an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure, the reactive agent being configured to at least react with pre -transformed material of the three-dimensional printing during the three-dimensional printing, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the time period is at least a same or greater value than a time period to remove the three-dimensional objects from the build module body. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate printing one or more three-dimensional objects in an atmosphere maintained to be different from an ambient atmosphere by at least one characteristic, the ambient atmosphere being external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the at least one characteristic comprises (i) a pressure above a pressure presiding in the ambient atmosphere, or (ii) a reactive agent being at a concentration lower than its concentration in the ambient atmosphere, the reactive agent being reactive with a starting material of the three-dimensional printing at least during the three-dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the build module is configured to reversibly couple to and uncouple from the processing chamber. In some embodiments, the build module is configured to reversibly couple to and uncouple from the processing chamber. In some embodiments, during the printing, the build module is configured couple with the processing chamber though a load lock. In some embodiments, the three-dimensional printing system comprises one or more optical windows disposed on a ceiling of the enclosure, the one or more optical windows configured to facilitate transmittal of the first radiation therethrough and into the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the enclosure is equipped with at least one optical window and with the window assembly that is a viewing window for the user, e.g., at least one of the window assembly. In some embodiments, an optical window (of the at least one optical window) is configured to facilitate ingress of the first irradiation into the enclosure such as for processing purposes, e.g., without being (e.g., substantially) attenuated while passing through the optical window. For example, the optical window may facilitate the first radiation to print the one or more three- dimensional objects in the enclosure, e g., without being (e g., substantially) attenuated while passing through the optical window. In some embodiments, configuration of the optical window with respect to the enclosure does not allow the user to view therethrough, e.g., during normal operation such as during irradiation of the first radiation for processing purposes taking place in the enclosure. In some embodiments, during the printing, the three-dimensional printer is configured to facilitate gas flow away from one or more optical windows and in a direction towards the build platform, the one or more optical windows being of the three-dimensional printer. In some embodiments, the gas flowing away from the one or more optical windows is of the same makeup as the gas makeup of the atmosphere in the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises extruding. In some embodiments, extruding is by an extruder to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, the device is configured to comprise, or operatively coupled to, the extruder. In some embodiments, the portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises laminating. In some embodiments, laminating comprises depositing by a laminator configured to deposit layerwise laminated layers to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, the device is configured to comprise, or be operatively coupled to, the laminator. In some embodiments, the portion of the three- dimensional printing comprises arc welding. In some embodiments, arc welding is by an arc welder to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object comprises: generating a powder stream and focusing an energy beam on the powder stream. In some embodiments, the device is configured to comprise, or operatively coupled to, the arc welder. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate three-dimensional printing, where a portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises connecting particulate matter to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the particulate matter is disposed in a material bed during the three- dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises a fusing process. In some embodiments, fusing comprises (i) sintering, (ii) melting, (iii) smelting, or (iv) any combination of (i)-(iii). In some embodiments, the particulate matter comprises a super alloy.

[0010] In another aspect, a method of reflecting radiation, the method comprises providing a device as in any of the above devices, and using the device to reflect the radiation. In some embodiments, the method further comprises using the first radiation to print one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure during a printing cycle.

[0011] In another aspect, an apparatus for reflecting radiation, the apparatus comprises at least one controller operatively coupled to a scanner configured to translate an energy beam having the first radiation configured to irradiate in the enclosure, wherein the at least one controller is configured to direct the scanner to translate the energy beam that reflects on the window assembly of a device as in any of the above devices. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to (i) operatively couple to one or more components of a three-dimensional printing system, and (ii) direct the one or more components to print one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure during a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the scanner comprises a galvanometer scanner. In some embodiments, the one or more components comprise (i) an energy beam irradiating the first radiation, (ii) an energy source of the energy beam, (iii) a material dispensing mechanism configured to form a material bed from which one or more three- dimensional objects are printed in a printing cycle, (iv) a gas conveyance system, (v) a material conveyance system, (vi) an optical system for the energy beam, (v) a translation system configured to translate the material bed, or (vi) one or more shutters. In some embodiments, the energy source is disposed external to the enclosure, and wherein the energy beam radiates from the energy source into the enclosure through an optical window. In some embodiments, the optical window is held by a nozzle configured to reduce an amount of debris accumulating on the optical window during processing occurring in the enclosure, the energy beam participating in the processing. In some embodiments, at least one controller is configured to operatively couple to scanners configured to (e.g., respectively) translate energy beams having the first radiation type configured to irradiate in the enclosure, wherein the at least one controller is configured to direct the scanners to translate the energy beams that reflects on the window assembly of the device, wherein the scanners comprise the seamier, wherein the energy beams comprise the energy beam, and wherein the first radiation is of the first radiation type. In some embodiments, tire angle range comprises an angle of reflection of the energy beams that impinge on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beams on the floor plane. In some embodiments, the energy beams comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 64 energy beams.

[0012] An apparatus for reflecting radiation, the apparatus comprising at least one controller operatively coupled to one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly of the device of any of the above devices, wherein the at least one controller is configured to (i) issue notification of any sensed damage per first designated criteria, (ii) direct attenuating (e.g., reducing, or halting) the irradiation of the first radiation per second designated criteria, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii), wherein the at least one controller is configured to operatively coupled to the first energy bream, e.g., by being configured to operatively coupled to a scanner of the first energy bream and/or to an energy source of the first radiation (e.g., energy beam).

[0013] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program instructions for reflecting radiation, the program instructions, when ready by one or more processors operatively coupled to a scanner, cause the one or more processors to execute one or more operations comprising directing the seamier to translate an energy beam having the first radiation reflecting on the window assembly of a device as in any of the above devices, the scanner being configured to translate the energy beam configured to irradiate in the enclosure. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operatively coupled to one or more components of a three-dimensional printing system, and wherein the operations comprise directing the one or more components to print one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure during a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the one or more components comprise (i) an energy beam irradiating the first radiation, (ii) an energy source of the energy beam, (iii) a material dispensing mechanism configured to form a material bed from which one or more three-dimensional objects are printed in a printing cycle, (iv) a gas conveyance system, (v) a material conveyance system, (vi) an optical system for the energy beam, (v) a translation system configmed to translate the material bed, or (vi) one or more shutters. In some embodiments, the scanner comprises a galvanometer scanner. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operatively coupled to scanners configured to (e.g., respectively) translate energy beams having the first radiation type configured to irradiate in the enclosure, wherein the one or more operations comprise directing the scanners to translate the energy beams that reflects on the window assembly of the device, wherein the scanners comprise the scanner, wherein the energy beams comprise the energy beam, and wherein the first radiation is of first radiation type. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of the energy beams that impinge on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beams on the floor plane. In some embodiments, the energy beams comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 64 energy beams.

[0014] In another aspect, a device for reflecting radiation, the device comprises: a window assembly ; and a coating disposed on a planar surface of the window assembly configured for disposition at a face of an enclosure, the enclosure having an interior space, the enclosure configured to enclose (e.g., during use comprising) a first radiation reflected onto the window assembly toward an environment external to the enclosure, the first radiation configured to process a starting material disposed on a floor plane of the enclosure, the first radiation configured to reflect at an angle range towards the window assembly during processing of the starting material, the coating configured to (e.g., substantially) reflect the first radiation away from the planar surface and into the interior space of the enclosure, the coating being configured to facilitate viewing at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure through the window assembly in a second radiation including the at least a portion of a visible spectrum viewed by a user disposed externally to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the coating comprises deposited layers. In some embodiments, the coating comprises deposited layers. In some embodiments, the angle range includes at most (e.g., including a maximal range of, or maximally including angles at a range of) from about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar (e.g., and exposed) surface of the window assembly, (ii) the floor plane of the enclosure, or (iii) with respect to (i) and (ii) such as when a normal to the planar surface of the window assembly is parallel to the floor plane of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle from about 45 degrees to about 80 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar (e.g., and exposed) surface of the window assembly, (ii) a floor plane of the enclosure, or (iii) with respect to (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle from about 50 degrees to about 70 degrees with respect to (i) a normal to the planar (e.g., and exposed) surface of the window assembly, (ii) the floor plane of the enclosure, or (iii) with respect to (i) and (ii) such as when a normal to the planar surface of the window assembly is parallel to the floor plane of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of an energy beam that impinges on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beam on the floor plane. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of energy beams that impinge on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beams on the floor plane. In some embodiments, the energy beams comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 64 energy beams, wherein the energy beams comprise the first radiation. In some embodiments, the window assembly is disposed in a door of the enclosure, the door being configured to reversibly open and close (e.g., automatically and/or manually by the user). In some embodiments, the door is configured to facilitate accessing at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure while separating an atmosphere of the enclosure from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the door comprises a glovebox. In some embodiments, the window assembly is a circular or a rectangular window assembly. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a convex geometric shape comprising a rectangle or an ellipse. In some embodiments, the rectangle comprises a square, and wherein the ellipse comprises a circle. In some embodiments, the rectangle is devoid of sharp edges. In some embodiments, the rectangle comprises angled edges. In some embodiments, the window assembly is part of (i) a set of window assemblies and/or (ii) a set comprising a window assembly and an opaque pane. In some embodiments, the opaque pane may comprise a mark (e.g., a writing, alphanumeric characters, an amorphic mark, or a picture). In some embodiments, the set of window assemblies comprises at least three window assemblies. In some embodiments, the set of window assemblies comprises at least one opaque pane (e.g., at least two opaque panes). In some embodiments, the set of window assemblies comprises circular window assemblies. In some embodiments, the enclosure comprises a processing chamber of a three-dimensional printing system. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to enclosure (e.g., comprises during use) a material bed from which one or more three-dimensional objects are printed in a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the first radiation is reflected from an exposed surface of the material bed and/or from any protruding object from the exposed surface of the material bed. In some embodiments, the one or more three-dimensional objects comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, an allotrope of elemental carbon, polymer, or a resin. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to enclosure an atmosphere having a positive pressure relative to an ambient pressure external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the window assembly is configured to facilitate enclosing an atmosphere that differs by one or more characteristics from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics comprise temperature, gas speed, gas direction, pressure, or a concentration of a reactive species. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to operatively couple to a gas conveyance system to form an atmosphere in the enclosure that differs from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure by one or more characteristics. In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics comprise temperature, gas speed, gas direction, pressure, or a concentration of a reactive species. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to enclosure an atmosphere having a lower concentration of a reactive species with respect to concentration of the reactive species in an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure, hr some embodiments, tire reactive species comprise oxygen or water. In some embodiments, the reactive species reacts with a material during a process occurring in the enclosure. In some embodiments, the reactive species reacts with a material comprising a stating material. In some embodiments, the process comprises transforming the starting material, e.g., in a three-dimensional printing process. In some embodiments, transforming the starting material comprising fusing or connecting. In some embodiments, fusing comprises melting or sintering. In some embodiments, the process utilizes the first radiation. In some embodiments, the process comprises printing one or more three-dimensional objects in a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the process comprises connecting a starting material. In some embodiments, connecting comprises fusing. In some embodiments, wherein fusing comprises melting or sintering. In some embodiments, the starting material comprises elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, an allotrope of elemental carbon, polymer, or a resin. In some embodiments, the user is an average human. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to allow viewing during continuous use of the three-dimensional printing system under normal operating conditions for printing the one or more three-dimensional objects for at least about a year, five years, ten years, fifteen years, twenty years, or fifty years, wherein normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the coating. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises one or more panes, wherein normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes, the damage (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from the at least one pane, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the normal operating conditions exclude maintaining or replacing the window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes. In some embodiments, the normal operating conditions exclude maintaining or replacing the window assembly. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to allow viewing during continuous use of the three-dimensional printing system under normal operating conditions for printing the one or more three-dimensional objects having an accumulating number of layers of at least about 100K, lOOOK, 5000K, or 10000K, wherein K designates one thousand layers, wherein normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the coating. In some embodiments, normal operating conditions excludes maintaining or replacing the window assembly. In some embodiments, In some embodiments, the first radiation comprises a laser beam. In some embodiments, the laser beam is generated by a (e.g.., laser diode pumped) fiber laser. In some embodiments, the laser beam is a corona beam (e g., having a doughnut shaped footprint). In some embodiments, the first radiation has a power of at least about 150 Watts, 250 Watts, 750 Watts, or 1000 Watts. In some embodiments, the first radiation and/or the second radiation comprises electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, the first radiation has a wavelength of at least 900 nanometers to at most 2500 nanometers. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to reflect at least about 70%, 80%, or 90% of the first radiation directed towards the window assembly. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to reflect at least about 95%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the first radiation directed towards the window assembly. In some embodiments, the at least the portion of a visible spectrum is at least a first portion of a visible spectrum, wherein the coating is configured to at least partially absorb at least a second portion of the visible spectrum, wherein the visible spectrum is visible to the user. In some embodiments, the at least the second portion of the visible spectrum comprises green radiation, yellow radiation, or orange radiation. In some embodiments, the coating is configured to reflect a percentage of the first radiation directed towards the window assembly at least such that the first radiation that is not reflected from the window assembly is at a level unharmful to the user. In some embodiments, the window assembly is tilted from (i) a normal to the floor plane and/or (ii) the face of the enclosure, the face being planar. In some embodiments, the window assembly is titled by at least about 1 degrees, 5 degrees, 10 degrees, or 15 degrees. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a layer configured to absorb the first radiation, which layer is disposed between the user and the coating. In some embodiments, the layer comprises a polymer or a resin. In some embodiments, the layer comprises polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the layer is configured to lower an intensity of the first radiation transmitted through the window assembly at least about 5, 10, or 12 orders of magnitude. In some embodiments, the layer is configured absorb at least about 5, 10, or 12 orders of magnitude of an intensity of the first radiation reflected onto the window assembly. In some embodiments, the layer is configured to transmit the at least a portion of a visible spectrum. In some embodiments, the layer is configured to transmit at least a blue light. In some embodiments, the layer is configured to transmit visible light sufficient for the user to view the at least a portion of the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the viewing window assembly layer comprises one or more panes, and wherein the layer is a pane of the one or more panes, or is disposed on a pane of the one or more panes. In some embodiments, the device includes, or is operatively coupled to one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are configured to sense the damage (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from at least one pane of the window assembly, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are configured to sense the damage to the window assembly in real time, e.g., during operation such as during irradiation of the first radiation. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are sensors configured to sense the damage on combination of their data. In some embodiments, at least two of the sensors are of a different type. In some embodiments, at least two of the sensors are of the same type disposed at different locations with respect to the window assembly. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise an optical sensor, a (e.g., gas) flow sensor, a pressure sensor, an oxygen sensor, a humidity sensor, or a hydrogen sensor. In some embodiments, the optical sensor is configured to sense X-ray radiation. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more sensors is disposed in the enclosure. Tn some embodiments, the one or more sensors comprise a microscope, e.g., comprising an optical microscope or an electronic microscope. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a transparent medium configured to transmit the at least a portion of a visible spectrum therethrough. In some embodiments, the transparent medium having thermal conductivity higher than glass or higher than fused silica. In some embodiments, the transparent medium comprises glass, quartz, fused silica, or sapphire. In some embodiments, the first radiation comprises specularly reflected radiation. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a holder, an insulator, a material configure to absorb the first radiation, a material transparent to the at least the portion of the visible spectrum, or the coating. In some embodiments, the insulator comprises an O-ring. In some embodiments, the insulator comprises a compressible material that is compressed in the window assembly. In some embodiments, the insulator comprises a polymer or a resin. In some embodiments, the coating is disposed on die window assembly such that it faces the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the coating forms an exposed surface of the window assembly. In some embodiments, the window assembly comprises a plurality of planar surfaces, and therein the coating forms a surface of an internal planar surface of the plurality of planar surfaces, e.g., such that the coating is disposed within the window assembly. In some embodiments, the coating acts at least in part as a beam splitter. In some embodiments, the coating comprises a dielectric, a dichroic optical material, a metal, or a metalloid. In some embodiments, the coating excludes at least material selected from the group consisting of a liquid, a gas, or a semi-solid (e.g., gel). For example, the coating may exclude a gel. In some embodiments, the coating is deposited using layer deposition, e.g., using spattering. In some embodiments, the dielectric coating comprises fluoride compounds, or metal oxides. In some embodiments, the metalloid comprises germanium. In some embodiments, the metal comprises an elemental metal. In some embodiments, the elemental metal comprises silver, aluminum, or gold. In some embodiments, the three-dimensional printing system comprises a build module configured to (e.g., reversibly) engage with the processing chamber, the build module is further configured to accommodate (e g., during printing) one or more three-dimensional objects disposed above a vertically translating build plate, the build plate being configured to (e g., during printing) vertically translate using a translation mechanism comprising an arm (e.g., bent arm) disposed externally to the build module. In some embodiments, the device comprises or is operatively coupled to a layer dispensing mechanism comprising a material remover, and a material dispenser. In some embodiments, the device further comprises or is configured to operatively coupled to a (material) remover configured to remove deposited starting (e.g., pretransformed) material, e.g., to generate a planar layer of starting material as part of a material bed. In some embodiments, the remover is operatively coupled to an attractive force source sufficient to attract the pretransformed material from the target surface. In some embodiments, the attractive force comprises a magnetic, electric, electrostatic, or vacuum source. In some embodiments, the attractive force comprises a vacuum source. In some embodiments, the device comprises or is configured to operatively couple to a recycling system configured to (i) recycle at least a fraction of a portion of the pre-transformed material removed by the remover and/or (ii) provide at least a portion of the pre -transformed material utilized by a material dispenser configured to dispense the starting material. In some embodiments, the portion removed by the remover is at least about 70%, 50% or 30% of the dispensed starting material by the (material) dispenser. Tn some embodiments, the fraction recycled is at least about 70% or 90% of the portion removed by the remover. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate deposition of starting material on the target surface at least in part by layerwise deposition. In some embodiments, the device is configured to deposit starting material comprising powder material. In some embodiments, the device is configured to deposit the starting (e.g., pre-transformed) material comprising elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, or an allotrope of carbon. In some embodiments, the device is configured to deposit pre-transformed material comprising a polymer or a resin. In some embodiments, the device is configured to enclose (e.g., and maintain) in the interior space a positive pressure atmosphere relative to an ambient pressure of an ambient atmosphere external to the device. In some embodiments, the device is configured to enclose (e.g., and maintain) in the interior space an atmosphere depleted of a reactive agent relative to its concentration in an ambient atmosphere external to the device, the reactive agent being configured to react with a starting material of the three-dimensional printing at least during the three-dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the reactive agent comprises oxygen, or water. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a seal. In some embodiments, the seal is included, or is operatively coupled to a door. In some embodiments, the seal is gas tight. In some embodiments, the seal is a hermetic seal. In some embodiments, the seal is configured to facilitate retaining an internal atmosphere in the internal space of the enclosure for a time period, the internal atmosphere being different from an ambient atmosphere external to the build module. In some embodiments, the seal is configured to facilitate retaining for a time period (i) a positive pressure within the internal space relative to an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure, (ii) a reactive agent at a concentration lower than its concentration in an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure, the reactive agent being configured to at least react with pre -transformed material of the three-dimensional printing during the three-dimensional printing, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the time period is at least a same or greater value than a time period to remove the three-dimensional objects from the build module body. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate printing one or more three-dimensional objects in an atmosphere maintained to be different from an ambient atmosphere by at least one characteristic, the ambient atmosphere being external to the enclosure In some embodiments, the at least one characteristic comprises (i) a pressure above a pressure presiding in the ambient atmosphere, or (ii) a reactive agent being at a concentration lower than its concentration in the ambient atmosphere, the reactive agent being reactive with a starting material of the three-dimensional printing at least during the three-dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the build module is configured to reversibly couple to and uncouple from the processing chamber. In some embodiments, the build module is configured to reversibly couple to and uncouple from the processing chamber. In some embodiments, during the printing, the build module is configured couple with the processing chamber through a load lock. In some embodiments, the three-dimensional printing system comprises one or more optical windows disposed on a ceiling of the enclosure, the one or more optical windows configured to facilitate transmittal of the first radiation therethrough and into the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, during the printing, the three-dimensional printer is configured to facilitate gas flow away from one or more optical windows and in a direction tow ards the build platform, the one or more optical windows being of the three- dimensional printer. In some embodiments, the gas flowing away from the one or more optical windows is of the same makeup as the gas makeup of the atmosphere in the interior space of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises extruding. In some embodiments, extruding is by an extruder to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, the device is configured to comprise, or operatively coupled to, the extruder. In some embodiments, the portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises laminating. In some embodiments, laminating comprises depositing by a laminator configured to deposit layerwise laminated layers to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, the device is configured to comprise, or be operatively coupled to, the laminator. In some embodiments, the portion of the three- dimensional printing comprises arc welding. In some embodiments, arc welding is by an arc welder to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object comprises: generating a powder stream and focusing an energy beam on the powder stream. In some embodiments, the device is configured to comprise, or operatively coupled to, the arc welder. In some embodiments, the device is configured to facilitate three-dimensional printing, where a portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises connecting particulate matter to facilitate printing the at least one three-dimensional object. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the particulate matter is disposed in a material bed during the three- dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the portion of the three-dimensional printing comprises a fusing process. In some embodiments, fusing comprises (i) sintering, (ii) melting, (iii) smelting, or (iv) any combination of (i)-(iii). In some embodiments, the particulate matter comprises a super alloy.

100151 In another aspect, a method of reflecting radiation, the method comprising providing a device as in any of the above devices, and using the device to reflect the radiation. In some embodiments, the method further comprises using the first radiation to print one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure during a printing cycle.

[0016] In another aspect, a method of reflecting radiation, the method comprising providing any of the above devices, and installing the device in the three-dimensional printing system. In some embodiments, the device replaces an other viewing window assembly during maintenance. Tn some embodiments, the device is newly installed. In some embodiments, the device is installed following its maintenance. In some embodiments, the other window assembly comprises one or more panes. In some embodiments, the maintenance excludes maintaining or replacing the other window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes, the damage (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from the at least one pane, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the maintenance excludes maintaining or replacing the other window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes. In some embodiments, the maintenance includes maintaining or replacing the other window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes, the damage (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from the at least one pane, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). In some embodiments, the maintenance includes maintaining or replacing the other window assembly for damage of at least one pane of the one or more panes. [0017] In another aspect, an apparatus for reflecting radiation, the apparatus comprises at least one controller operatively coupled to a scanner configured to translate an energy beam having the first radiation configured to irradiate in the enclosure, wherein the at least one controller is configured to direct the scanner to translate the energy beam that reflects on the window assembly of a device as in any of the above devices. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to (i) operatively couple to one or more components of a three-dimensional printing system, and (ii) direct the one or more components to print one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure during a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the one or more components comprise (i) an energy beam irradiating the first radiation, (ii) an energy source of the energy beam, (iii) a material dispensing mechanism configured to form a material bed from which one or more three-dimensional objects are printed in a printing cycle, (iv) a gas conveyance system, (v) a material conveyance system, (vi) an optical system for the energy beam, (v) a translation system configured to translate the material bed, or (vi) one or more shutters. In some embodiments, the energy source is disposed external to the enclosure, and wherein die energy beam radiates from the energy source into the enclosure through an optical window. In some embodiments, the optical window is held by a nozzle configured to reduce an amount of debris accumulating on the optical window during processing occurring in the enclosure, the energy beam participating in the processing. In some embodiments, the scanner comprises a galvanometer scanner. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to operatively couple to scanners configured to (e.g., respectively) translate energy beams having the first radiation type configmed to irradiate in the enclosure, wherein the at least one controller is configmed to direct the scanners to translate the energy beams that reflects on the window assembly of the device, wherein the scanners comprise the scanner, wherein the energy beams comprise the energy beam, and wherein the first radiation is of first radiation type. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of the energy beams that impinge on a floor plane of the enclosme in a processing area of the energy beams on the floor plane. In some embodiments, the energy beams comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 64 energy beams.

[0018] An apparatus for reflecting radiation, the apparatus comprising at least one controller operatively coupled to one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly of the device of any of the above devices, wherein the at least one controller is configured to (i) issue notification of any sensed damage per first designated criteria, (ii) direct attenuating (e.g., reducing, or halting) the irradiation of the first radiation (e.g., energy beam) per second designated criteria, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii), wherein the at least one controller is configured to operatively coupled to the first energy bream, e.g., by being configured to operatively coupled to a scanner of the first radiation and/or to an energy source of the first radiation.

[0019] In another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable program instructions for reflecting radiation, the program instructions, when ready by one or more processors operatively coupled to a scanner, cause the one or more processors to execute one or more operations comprising directing the scanner to translate an energy beam having the first radiation reflecting on the window assembly of a device as in any of the above devices, the scanner being configured to translate the energy beam configured to irradiate in the enclosure. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operatively coupled to one or more components of a three-dimensional printing system, and wherein the operations comprise directing the one or more components to print one or more three-dimensional objects in the enclosure during a printing cycle. In some embodiments, the one or more components comprise (i) an energy beam irradiating the first radiation, (ii) an energy source of tire energy beam, (iii) a material dispensing mechanism configured to form a material bed from which one or more three-dimensional objects are printed in a printing cycle, (iv) a gas conveyance system, (v) a material conveyance system, (vi) an optical system for the energy beam, (v) a translation system configured to translate the material bed, or (vi) one or more shutters. In some embodiments, the scanner comprises a galvanometer scanner. In some embodiments, the one or more processors are operatively coupled to scanners configured to (e.g., respectively) translate energy beams having the first radiation type configured to irradiate in the enclosure, wherein the one or more operations comprise directing the scanners to translate the energy beams that reflects on the window assembly of the device, wherein the scanners comprise the scanner, wherein the energy beams comprise the energy beam, and wherein the first radiation is of first radiation type. In some embodiments, the angle range comprises an angle of reflection of the energy beams that impinge on a floor plane of the enclosure in a processing area of the energy beams on the floor plane. In some embodiments, the energy beams comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 64 energy beams.

[0020] In another aspect, a system for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, and/or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media/medium), disclosed herein.

[0021] In another aspect, a system for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, operation of a device, and/or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media/medium), disclosed herein.

[0022] In another aspect, device(s) (e.g., apparatus) for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, and/or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media/medium).

[0023] In another aspect, a system for effectuating the methods, operations of the device, operations of the apparatus, and/or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e g., inscribed on a media/medium), disclosed herein.

[0024] In other aspects, device(s) (e.g., apparatus) for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, and/or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media/medium).

[0025] In other aspects, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controller(s)), and/or non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., software) that implement any of the methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the program instructions is inscribed on at least one medium (e.g., on a medium or on media). [0026] In other aspects, methods, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controllcr(s)), and/or non-transitory computer- readable program instructions (e.g., software) that implement any of the devices disclosed herein and/or any operation of these devices. In some embodiments, the program instructions is inscribed on at least one medium (e.g., on a medium or on media). [0027] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides methods, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controller(s)), and/or non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., software) that implement any operation associated with any of the devices disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the program instructions is inscribed on at least one medium (e g , on a medium or on media).

[0028] In another aspect, an apparatus (e.g., for printing one or more 3D objects) comprises at least one controller that is configured (e.g., programmed) to direct a mechanism used in a 3D printing methodology to implement (e.g., effectuate) any of the method and/or operations disclosed herein, wherein the controller(s) is operatively coupled to the mechanism. In some embodiments, the controller(s) implements any of the methods and/or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises, or be operatively coupled to, a hierarchical control system. In some embodiments, the hierarchical control system comprises at least three, four, or five, control levels. In some embodiments, at least two operations are performed, or directed, by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least tw o operations are each performed, or directed, by a different controller.

[0029] In another aspect, an apparatus (e.g., for printing one or more 3D objects) comprises at least one controller that is configured (e.g., programmed) to implement (e.g., effectuate), or direct implementation of, the method, process, and/or operation disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any of the methods, processes, and/or operations disclosed herein.

[0030] In another aspect, non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., for printing one or more 3D objects), when read by one or more processors, are configured to execute, or direct execution of, the method, process, and/or operation disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any of the methods, processes, and/or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more processors is part of a 3D printer, outside of the 3D printer, in a location remote from the 3D printer (e.g., in the cloud).

[0031] In another aspect, a system for printing one or more 3D objects comprises an apparatus (e.g., used in a 3D printing methodology) and at least one controller that is configured (e.g., programmed) to direct operation of the apparatus, wherein the at least one controller is operatively coupled to the apparatus. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes any apparatus or device disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements, or direct implementation of, any of the methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller directs any apparatus (or component thereof) disclosed herein.

[0032] In some embodiments, at least two of operations of the apparatus are directed by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least two of operations of the apparatus are directed by different controllers.

[0033] In some embodiments, at least operations (e.g., instructions) are carried out by the same processor and/or by the same sub-computcr software product. In some embodiments, at least two of operations (e.g., instructions) are carried out by different processors and/or sub-computer software products.

[0034] In another aspect, a computer software product, comprising a (e.g., non-transitory) computer- readable medium/media in which program instructions are stored, which instructions, when read by a computer, cause the computer to direct a mechanism used in the 3D printing process to implement (e.g., effectuate) any of the method disclosed herein, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium is operatively coupled to the mechanism. In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises an apparatus or an apparatus component.

[0035] In another aspect, non-transitory computer-readable medium/media comprising machine-executable code that, upon execution by one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods and/or operations disclosed herein.

[0036] In another aspect, non-transitory computer-readable medium/media comprising machine-executable code that, upon execution by one or more computer processors, effectuates directions of the controller(s) (e.g., as disclosed herein).

[0037] In another aspect, a computer system comprising one or more computer processors and non- transitory computer-readable medium/media coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable medium comprises machine-executable code that, upon execution by the one or more computer processors, implements any of tire methods disclosed herein and/or effectuates directions of the controller(s) disclosed herein.

[0038] In another aspect, a method for three-dimensional printing, the method comprises executing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of the device(s) disclosed herein.

[0039] In another aspect, an apparatus for three-dimensional printing, the apparatus comprising at least one controller is configured (i) operatively couple to the device, and (ii) direct executing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of the device(s) disclosed herein.

[0040] In another aspect, at least one controller is associated with the methods, devices, and software disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprise at least one connector configured to connect to a power source. In some embodiments, the at least one controller being configured to operatively couple to a power source at least in part by (I) having a power socket and/or (II) being configured for wireless power transfer using inductive charging. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is included in, or comprises, a hierarchical control system. In some embodiments, the hierarchical control system comprises at least three hierarchical control levels. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is included in a control system configured to control a three-dimensional printer that prints the one or more three-dimensional objects. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control at least one other component of a 3D printing system. In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein is a component of a three-dimensional printing system, and wherein the at least one controller is configured to (i) operatively couple to another component of the three-dimensional printing system and (ii) direct operation of the other component. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to direct operation of the other component at least in part for participation of the other component in three- dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is operatively coupled to at least about 900 sensors, or 1000 sensors operatively couple to the three-dimensional printer. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control a pressure in the three-dimensional printer to be above ambient pressure external to the three-dimensional printer. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control an internal atmosphere of the three-dimensional printer to be depleted of a reactive agent relative to its concentration in an ambient atmosphere external to the device, the reactive agent being configured to react with a starting material of the three-dimensional printing at least during the three-dimensional printing.

[0041] In another aspect, non -transitory computer readable program instructions for three-dimensional printing, the non-transitory computer readable program instructions, when read by one or more processors operatively couped to the device, cause the one or more processors to direct executing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of the device(s) disclosed herein.

[0042] In some embodiments, the program instructions are of a computer product.

[0043] In another aspect, a system for three-dimensional printing, the system comprising: the any of the devices above; and an energy beam configured to irradiate powder material (e.g., a planar layer of powder material) to print at least a portion of at least one three-dimensional object at least in part by using three- dimensional printing. In some embodiments, the system further comprising a scanner configured to translate the energy beam along a target surface, wherein the device is operatively coupled to the scanner disposed in an optical chamber. In some embodiments, the system further comprises an energy source configured to generate the energy beam, wherein die device is operatively coupled to the energy source. In some embodiments, the energy source comprises a laser source or an electron beam source. In some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one controller that (i) is operatively coupled to the device and (ii) direct one or more operations associated with the device. In some embodiments, the system is configured to operatively couple to at least one controller configured to (i) operatively couple to the system and (ii) direct one or more operations associated with the sy stem.

[0044] The various embodiments in any of the above aspects are combinable (e.g., within an aspect), as appropriate.

[0045] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0046] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0047] The novel features of the invention(s) are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention(s) will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention(s) are utilized, and the accompanying drawings or figures (also “Fig.” and “Figs.” herein), of which:

[0048] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a three-dimensional (3D) printing system and its components; [0049] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a 3D printing system and its components; [0050] Figs. 3 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of components in a 3D printing system; [0051] Figs. 4 schematically illustrates a computer control system that is programmed or otherw ise configured to facilitate the formation of one or more 3D objects;

[0052] Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a processor and 3D printer architecture that facilitates the formation of one or more 3D objects;

[0053] Fig. 6 shows a horizontal view of a 3D object;

[0054] Fig. 7 illustrates a path;

[0055] Fig. 8 illustrates various paths;

[0056] Fig. 9 shows schematics of various vertical cross-sectional views of different 3D objects;

[0057] Fig. 10 schematically illustrates a vertical cross section of a material bed and 3D objects;

[0058] Fig. 11 schematically illustrated various components of a 3D printing system and portions thereof;

[0059] Fig. 12 schematically illustrates a 3D printing system and a user;

[0060] Fig. 13 schematically illustrates various components of a 3D printing system and portions thereof;

[0061] Fig. 14 schematically illustrates various components of a 3D printing sy stem and portions thereof;

[0062] Fig. 15 schematically illustrates various portions of a 3D printing system;

[0063] Fig. 16 schematically illustrates various components of a 3D printing system and portions thereof;

[0064] Fig. 17 schematically illustrates various components of a 3D printing system and portions thereof;

[0065] Fig. 18 schematically illustrates a partially exploded view of a viewing window assembly;

[0066] Fig. 19 illustrates various components of a 3D printing system and portions thereof;

|0067| Fig. 20 illustrates various components of a door; and

[0068] Fig. 21 illustrates various components of doors.

[0069] The figures and components therein may not be drawn to scale. Various components of the figures described herein may not be drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] While various embodiments of the invention have been shown, and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein might be employed. The various embodiments disclosed herein are combinable, as appropriate. [0071] Terms such as “a”, “an” and “the” are not intended to refer to only a singular entity, but include the general class of which a specific example may be used for illustration. The terminology herein is used to describe specific embodiments of the invention(s), but their usage does not delimit the invention(s).

[0072] When ranges are mentioned, the ranges are meant to be inclusive, unless otherwise specified. For example, a range between value 1 and value 2 is meant to be inclusive and include value 1 and value 2. The inclusive range will span any value from about value 1 to about value 2. The term “adjacent” or “adjacent to,” as used herein, includes “next to,” “adjoining,” “in contact with,” and “in proximity to.” When ranges are mentioned (e.g., between, at least, at most, and the like) their endpoint(s) is/are also claimed. For example, when lhe range is from X to Y, the values of X and Y are also claimed. For example, w hen the range is at most Z, the value of Z is also claimed. For example, when the range is at least W, the value of W is also claimed.

[0073] The conjunction “and/or” as used herein in X and/or Y (including in the specification and claims) is meant to include (i) X, (ii) Y, and (iii) X and Y. The conjunction of “and/or” in the phrase “including X, Y, and/or Z” is meant to include any combination and plurality thereof. For example, it is meant to include the following: (1) a single X, (2) a single Y, (3) a single Z, (4) a single X and a single Y, (5) a single X and a single Z, (6) a single Y and a single Z, (7) a single X, a single Y, and a single Z, (8) a plurality of X, (9) a plurality of Y, (10) a plurality of Z, (11) a plurality of X and a single Y, (12) a plurality of X, a single Y and a single Z, (13) a plurality of X and a single Z, (14) a plurality of Y and a single X, (15) a plurality of Y, a single X, and a single Z, (16) a plurality of Y and a single Z, (17) a plurality of Z and a single X, (18) a plurality of Z, a single X, and a single Y (19) a plurality of Z and a single Y, (20) a plurality X and a plurality Y, (21) a plurality X and a plurality Z, (22) a plurality Y and a plurality Z, and (23) a plurality X, a plurality Y, and a plurality Z. The phrase “including X, Y, and/or Z” is meant to have the same meaning as “comprising X, Y, or Z.”

[0074] The term “operatively coupled” or “operatively connected” refers to a first mechanism that is coupled (or connected) to a second mechanism to allow the intended operation of the second and/or first mechanism. The coupling may comprise physical or non-physical coupling. The non-physical coupling may comprise signal induced coupling (e.g., wireless coupling).

[0075] The term “operatively coupled” or “operatively connected” refers to a first mechanism that is coupled (or connected) to a second mechanism to allow the intended operation of the second and/or first mechanism. The coupling may comprise physical or non-physical coupling. The non-physical coupling may comprise signal induced coupling (e.g., wireless coupling).

[0076] “ Real time” as understood herein may be during at least part of the printing of a 3D object. Real time may be during a print operation. Real time may be during a print cycle. Real time may comprise: during formation of (i) a 3D object, (ii) a layer of hardened material as part of the 3D object, (iii) a hatch line, or (iv) a melt pool.

[0077] A central tendency as understood herein comprises mean, median, or mode. The mean may comprise a geometric mean.

[0078] The phrase “is/are structured” or “is/are configured,” when modifying an article, refers to a structure of the article that is able to bring about the referred result.

[0079] Transformed material, as understood herein, is a material that underwent a physical change. The physical change can comprise a phase change. The physical change can comprise fusing (e.g., melting or sintering), connecting, or bonding (e.g., physical, or chemical bond). The physical change can be a phase transformation such as from a solid to a partially liquid, or to a liquid, phase.

[0080] The 3D printing process may comprise printing one or more layers of hardened material in a building cycle (e.g., printing cycle). A building cycle, as understood herein, comprises printing all (e.g., hardened, or solid) material layers of a print job, which may comprise printing one or more 3D objects above a platform and/or a base (e.g., in a single material bed). [0081] Pre-transformed material, as understood herein, is a material before it has been transformed (e.g., once transformed) by an energy beam during an upcoming 3D printing process, e.g., it is a starting material for an upcoming 3D printing process. The pre-transformed material may be a material that was, or was not, transformed prior to its use in the upcoming 3D printing process. The pre-transformed material may be a material that was partially transformed prior to its use in the upcoming 3D printing process. The pretransformed material may be a starting material for the upcoming 3D printing process. The pre-transformed material may be liquid, solid, or semi-solid (e g., gel). The pre-transformed material may be a particulate material. For example, the particulate material may be a powder material. The powder material may comprise solid particles of material(s). The particulate material may comprise vesicles (e.g., containing liquid or semi-solid material). The particulate material may comprise solid or semi-solid material particles. The pre-transformed material may have been transformed by a 3D printer process prior to the upcoming 3D printing process. For example, in a first 3D printing process (having a first build cycle), powder material was used to form a 3D object. A remainder of the powder material of the first 3D printing process may become a pre-transformed material for an upcoming second 3D printing process (having a second build cycle). Thus, even though the remainder powder of the first 3D printing process may comprise transformed material (e.g., bits of sintered powder), it is still considered a pre-transformed material relative to the second 3D printing process. The remainder can be filtered and otherwise recycled for use as a pre-transformed material in the second 3D printing process.

[0082] Fundamental length scale (abbreviated herein as “FLS”) can be referred herein as to any suitable scale (e g., dimension) of an object. For example, a FLS of an object may comprise a length, a width, a height, a diameter, a spherical equivalent diameter, or a diameter of a bounding sphere. In some cases, FLS may refer to an area, a volume, a shape, or a density.

[0083] Performing a reversible first operation is understood herein to mean performing the first operation and being capable of performing the opposite of that first operation (e.g., which is a second operation). For example, when a controller directs reversibly opening a shutter, that shutter can also close, and the controller can optionally direct a closure of that shutter.

[0084] The present disclosure provides three-dimensional (3D) printing apparatuses, systems, software, and methods for forming a 3D object. For example, a 3D object may be formed by sequential addition of material or joining of pre-transformed material to form a structure in a controlled manner (e.g., under manual or automated control). Pre-transformed material, as understood herein, is a material before it has been transformed during the 3D printing process. The transformation can be effectuated by utilizing an energy beam and/or flux. The pre-transformed material may be a material that was, or was not, transformed prior to its use in a 3D printing process. The pre-transformed material may be a starting material for the 3D printing process.

[0085] In some embodiments, a 3D printing process, the deposited pre-transformed material is fused, (e.g., sintered or melted), bound or otherwise connected to form at least a portion of the requested 3D object. Fusing, binding or otherwise connecting the material is collectively referred to herein as “transforming” the material. Fusing the material may refer to melting, smelting, or sintering a pre-transformed material. Melting may comprise liquefying the material (i.e., transforming to a liquefied state). A liquefied stale refers to a state in which at least a portion of a transformed material is in a liquid state. Melting may comprise liquidizing the material (i.e., transforming to a liquidus state). A liquidus state refers to a state in which an entire transformed material is in a liquid state. The apparatuses, methods, software, and/or systems provided herein are not limited to the generation of a single 3D object, but may be utilized to generate one or more 3D objects simultaneously (e.g., in parallel) or separately (e.g., sequentially). The multiplicity of 3D object may be formed in one or more material beds (e.g., powder bed). In some embodiments, a plurality of 3D objects is formed in one material bed.

[0086] In some embodiments, 3D printing methodologies comprise extrusion, wire, granular, laminated, light polymerization, or powder bed and inkjet head 3D printing. Extrusion 3D printing can comprise robo- casting, fused deposition modeling (FDM) or fused filament fabrication (FFF). Wire 3D printing can comprise electron beam freeform fabrication (EBF3). Granular 3D printing can comprise direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), electron beam melting (EBM), selective laser melting (SLM), selective heat sintering (SHS), or selective laser sintering (SLS). Powder bed and inkjet head 3D printing can comprise plasterbased 3D printing (PP). Laminated 3D printing can comprise laminated object manufacturing (LOM). Light polymerized 3D printing can comprise stereo-lithography (SLA), digital light processing (DLP), or laminated object manufacturing (LOM). 3D printing methodologies can comprise Direct Material Deposition (DMD). The Direct Material Deposition may comprise, Laser Metal Deposition (LMD, also known as, Laser deposition welding). 3D printing methodologies can comprise powder feed, or wire deposition.

[0087] In some embodiments, the 3D printing methodologies differ from methods traditionally used in semiconductor device fabrication (e.g., vapor deposition, etching, annealing, masking, or molecular beam epitaxy). In some instances, 3D printing may further comprise one or more printing methodologies that are traditionally used in semiconductor device fabrication. 3D printing methodologies can differ from vapor deposition methods such as chemical vapor deposition, physical vapor deposition, or electrochemical deposition. In some instances, 3D printing may further include vapor deposition methods.

[0088] In some embodiments, the deposited pre-transformed material within the enclosure is a liquid material, semi-solid material (e g., gel), or a solid material (e g., powder). The deposited pre-transformed material within the enclosure can be in the form of a powder, wires, sheets, or droplets. The material (e g., pre-transformed, transformed, and/or hardened) may comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramics, or an allotrope of elemental carbon. The allotrope of elemental carbon may comprise amorphous carbon, graphite, graphene, diamond, or fullerene. The fullerene may be selected from the group consisting of a spherical, elliptical, linear, and tubular fullerene. The fullerene may comprise a buckyball, or a carbon nanotube. The ceramic material may comprise cement. The ceramic material may comprise alumina, zirconia, or carbide (e.g., silicon carbide, or tungsten carbide). The ceramic material may include high performance material (HPM). The ceramic material may include a nitride (e.g., boron nitride or aluminum nitride). The material may comprise sand, glass, or stone. In some embodiments, the material may comprise an organic material, for example, a polymer or a resin (e.g., 114 W resin). The organic material may comprise a hydrocarbon. The polymer may comprise styrene or nylon (e.g., nylon 11). The polymer may comprise a thermoplastic material. The organic material may comprise carbon and hydrogen atoms. The organic material may comprise carbon and oxy gen atoms. The organic material may comprise carbon and nitrogen atoms. The organic material may comprise carbon and sulfur atoms. In some embodiments, the material may exclude an organic material. The material may comprise a solid or a liquid. In some embodiments, the material may comprise a silicon-based material, for example, silicon based polymer or a resin. The material may comprise an organosilicon-based material. The material may comprise silicon and hydrogen atoms. The material may comprise silicon and carbon atoms. In some embodiments, the material may exclude a silicon-based material. The powder material may be coated by a coating (e.g., organic coating such as the organic material (e.g., plastic coating)). The material may be devoid of organic material. The liquid material may be compartmentalized into reactors, vesicles, or droplets. The compartmentalized material may be compartmentalized in one or more layers. The material may be a composite material comprising a secondary material. The secondary material can be a reinforcing material (e.g., a material that forms a fiber). The reinforcing material may comprise a carbon fiber, Kevlar®, Twaron®, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, or glass fiber. The material can comprise powder (e.g., granular material) and/or wires. The bound material can comprise chemical bonding. Transforming can comprise chemical bonding. Chemical bonding can comprise covalent bonding. The pre-transformed material may be pulverous. The printed 3D object can be made of a single material (e.g., single material type) or multiple materials (e.g., multiple material types). Sometimes one portion of the 3D object and/or of the material bed may comprise one material, and another portion may comprise a second material different from the first material. The material may be a single material type (e.g., a single alloy or a single elemental metal). The material may comprise one or more material types. For example, the material may comprise two alloys, an alloy and an elemental metal, an alloy and a ceramic, or an alloy and an elemental carbon. The material may comprise an alloy and alloying elements (e g., for inoculation). The material may comprise blends of material types. The material may comprise blends with elemental metal or with metal alloy. The material may comprise blends excluding (e.g., without) elemental metal or including (e.g., with) metal alloy. The material may comprise a stainless steel. The material may comprise a titanium alloy, aluminum alloy, and/or nickel alloy.

[0089] In some cases, a layer within the 3D object comprises a single type of material. In some examples, a layer of the 3D object may comprise a single elemental metal type, or a single alloy type. In some examples, a layer within the 3D object may comprise several types of material (e g., an elemental metal and an alloy, an alloy and a ceramic, an alloy, and an elemental carbon). In certain embodiments, each type of material comprises only a single member of that type. For example: a single member of elemental metal (e.g., iron), a single member of metal alloy (e.g., stainless steel), a single member of ceramic material (e.g., silicon carbide or tungsten carbide), or a single member of elemental carbon (e.g., graphite). In some cases, a layer of the 3D object comprises more than one type of material. In some cases, a layer of the 3D object comprises more than member of a type of material.

[0090] In some examples the material bed, platform, or both material bed and platform comprise a material type which constituents (e.g., atoms) readily lose their outer shell electrons, resulting in a free-flowing cloud of electrons within their otherwise solid arrangement. In some examples, the powder, the base, or both the powder and the base comprise a material characterized in having high electrical conductivity, low electrical resistivity, high thermal conductivity, or high density. The high electrical conductivity can be at least about 1 * 10 ⁵ Siemens per meter (S/m), 5*10 ⁵ S/m, l* 10 ⁶ S/m, 5*10 ⁶ S/m, l*10 ⁷ S/m, 5*10 ⁷ S/m, or l* 10 ⁸ S/m. The symbol designates the mathematical operation “times.” The high electrical conductivity can be betw een any of the afore-mentioned electrical conductivity values (e.g., from about 1 * 10 ⁵ S/m to about l*10 ⁸ S/m). The thermal conductivity, electrical resistivity, electrical conductivity , electrical resistivity, and/or density can be measured at ambient temperature (e.g., at R.T., or 20°C). The low electrical resistivity may be at most about l*10‘ ⁵ -ohm times meter (Q*m), 5* 10‘ ⁶ Q*m, IMO" ⁶ Q*m, 5*10‘ ⁷ Q*m, l*10‘ ⁷ fl*m, 5*10' ⁸ or l*10' ⁸ Q*m. The low electrical resistivity can be between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 1X10' ⁵ *m to about 1X10' ⁸ *m). The high thermal conductivity may be at least about 10 Watts per meter times Kelvin (W/mK), 15 W/mK, 20 W/mK, 35 W/mK, 50 W/mK, 100 W/mK, 150 W/mK, 200 W/mK, 205 W/mK, 300 W/mK, 350 W/mK, 400 W/mK, 450 W/mK, 500 W/mK, 550 W/mK, 600 W/mK, 700 W/mK, 800 W/mK, 900 W/mK, or 1000 W/mK. The high thermal conductivity can be between any of the afore-mentioned thermal conductivity values (e.g., from about 20 W/mK to about 1000 W/mK). The high density may be at least about 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm ³ ), 1.7 g/cm ³ , 2 g/cm ³ , 2.5 g/cm ³ , 2.7 g/cm ³ , 3 g/cm ³ , 4 g/cm ³ , 5 g/cm ³ , 6 g/cm ³ , 7 g/cm ³ , 8 g/cm ³ , 9 g/cm ³ , 10 g/cm ³ , 11 g/cm ³ , 12 g/cm ³ , 13 g/cm ³ , 14 g/cm ³ , 15 g/cm ³ , 16 g/cm ³ , 17 g/cm ³ , 18 g/cm ³ , 19 g/cm ³ , 20 g/cm ³ , or 25 g/cm ³ . The high density can be any value between the afore mentioned values (e.g., from about 1 g/cm ³ to about 25 g/cm ³ ).

[0091] The elemental metal can be an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, a transition metal, a rare-earth element metal, or another metal. The alkali metal can be Lithium, Sodium, Potassium, Rubidium, Cesium, or Francium. The alkali earth metal can be Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium, or Radium. The transition metal can be Scandium, Titanium, Vanadium, Chromium, Manganese, Iron, Cobalt, Nickel, Copper, Zinc, Yttrium, Zirconium, Platinum, Gold, Rutherfordium, Dubnium, Seaborgium, Bohrium, Hassium, Meitnerium, Ununbium, Niobium, Iridium, Molybdenum, Technetium, Ruthenium, Rhodium, Palladium, Silver, Cadmium, Hafnium, Tantalum, Tungsten, Rhenium, or Osmium. The transition metal can be mercury. The rare-earth metal can be a lanthanide or an actinide. The antinode metal can be Lanthanum, Cerium, Praseodymium, Neodymium, Promethium, Samarium, Europium, Gadolinium, Terbium, Dysprosium, Holmium, Erbium, Thulium, Ytterbium, or Lutetium. The actinide metal can be Actinium, Thorium, Protactinium, Uranium, Neptunium, Plutonium, Americium, Curium, Berkelium, Californium, Einsteinium, Fermium, Mendelevium, Nobelium, or Lawrencium. The other metal can be Aluminum, Gallium, Indium, Tin, Thallium, Lead, or Bismuth. The material may comprise a precious metal. The precious metal may comprise gold, silver, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium, iridium, or platinum. The material may comprise at least about 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.5% or more precious metal. The powder material may comprise at most about 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.5% or less precious metal. The material may comprise precious metal with any value in between the aforc-mcntioncd values. The material may comprise at least a minimal percentage of precious metal according to the laws in the particular jurisdiction.

[0092] The metal alloy can comprise iron based alloy, nickel based alloy, cobalt based alloy, chrome based alloy, cobalt chrome based alloy, titanium based alloy, magnesium based alloy, or copper based alloy. The alloy may comprise an oxidation or corrosion resistant alloy. The alloy may comprise a super alloy (e.g., Inconel). The super alloy may comprise Inconel 600, 617, 625, 690, 718 or X-750. The alloy may comprise an alloy used for aerospace applications, automotive application, surgical application, or implant applications. The metal may include a metal used for aerospace applications, automotive application, surgical application, or implant applications. The super alloy may comprise IN 738 LC, IN 939, Rene 80, IN 6203 (e.g., IN 6203 DS), PWA 1483 (e.g., PWA 1483 SX), or Alloy 247.

[0093] The metal alloys can be Refractory Alloys. The refractory metals and alloys may be used for heat coils, heat exchangers, furnace components, or welding electrodes. The Refractory Alloys may comprise a high melting points, low coefficient of expansion, mechanically strong, low vapor pressure at elevated temperatures, high thermal conductivity, or high electrical conductivity.

[0094] In some embodiments, the material (e.g., alloy or elemental) comprises a material used for applications in industries comprising aerospace (e g., aerospace super alloys), jet engine, missile, automotive, marine, locomotive, satellite, defense, oil & gas, energy generation, semiconductor, fashion, construction, agriculture, printing, or medical. The material may comprise an alloy used for products comprising, devices, medical devices (human & veterinary), machinery, cell phones, semiconductor equipment, generators, engines, pistons, electronics (e g., circuits), electronic equipment, agriculture equipment, motor, gear, transmission, communication equipment, computing equipment (e.g., laptop, cell phone, tablet), air conditioning, generators, furniture, musical equipment, art, jewelry, cooking equipment, or sport gear. The material may comprise an alloy used for products for human or veterinary applications comprising implants, or prosthetics. The metal alloy may comprise an alloy used for applications in the fields comprising human or veterinary surgery, implants (e.g., dental), or prosthetics.

|0095| In some examples, the alloy includes a high-performance alloy. The alloy may include an alloy exhibiting at least one of excellent mechanical strength, resistance to thermal creep deformation, good surface stability, resistance to corrosion, and resistance to oxidation. The alloy may include a face-centered cubic austenitic crystal structure. The alloy may comprise Hastelloy, Inconel, Waspaloy, Rene alloy (e.g., Rene-80, Rene-77, Rene-220, or Rene-41), Haynes alloy, Incoloy, MP98T, TMS alloy, MTEK (e.g., MTEK grade MAR-M-247, MAR-M-509, MAR-M-R41, or MAR-M-X-45), or CMSX (e.g., CMSX-3, or CMSX- 4). The alloy can be a single crystal alloy.

[0096] In some instances, the iron-based alloy can comprise Elinvar, Fernico, Ferroalloys, Invar, Iron hydride, Kovar, Spiegeleisen, Staballoy (stainless steel), or Steel. In some instances, the metal alloy is steel. The Ferroalloy may comprise Ferroboron, Ferrocerium, Ferrochrome, Ferromagnesium, Ferromanganese, Ferromolybdenum, Ferronickel, Ferrophosphorus, Ferrosilicon, Ferrotitanium, Ferrouranium, or Ferrovanadium. The iron-based alloy may include cast iron or pig iron. The steel may include Bulat steel, Chromoly, Crucible steel, Damascus steel, Hadfield steel, High speed steel, HSLA steel, Maraging steel, Maraging steel (M300), Reynolds 531, Silicon steel, Spring steel, Stainless steel, Tool steel, Weathering steel, or Wootz steel. The high-speed steel may include Mushct steel. The stainless steel may include AL- 6XN, Alloy 20, celestrium, marine grade stainless, Martensitic stainless steel, surgical stainless steel, or Zeron 100. The tool steel may include Silver steel. The steel may comprise stainless steel, Nickel steel, Nickel-chromium steel, Molybdenum steel, Chromium steel, Chromium-vanadium steel, Tungsten steel, Nickel-chromium-molybdenum steel, or Silicon-manganese steel. The steel may be comprised of any Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) grade such as 440F, 410, 312, 430, 440A, 440B, 440C, 304, 305, 304L, 304L, 301, 304LN, 301LN, 2304, 316, 316L, 316LN, 317L, 2205, 409, 904L, 321, 254SMO, 316Ti, 321 H, 17-4, 15-5, 420 or 304H. The steel may comprise stainless steel of at least one crystalline structure selected from the group consisting of austenitic, superaustenitic, ferritic, martensitic, duplex and precipitation-hardening martensitic. Duplex stainless steel may be lean duplex, standard duplex, super duplex, or hyper duplex. The stainless steel may comprise surgical grade stainless steel (e.g., austenitic 316, martensitic 420 or martensitic 440). The austenitic 316 stainless steel may include 316L or 316LVM. The steel may include 17-4 Precipitation Hardening steel (also known as type 630 is a chromium-copper precipitation hardening stainless steel, or 17-4PH steel). The stainless steel may comprise 360L stainless steel.

[0097] In some examples, the titanium-based alloys include alpha alloys, near alpha alloys, alpha and beta alloys, or beta alloys. The titanium alloy may comprise grade 1, 2, 2H, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 7H, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 16H, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 2, 23, 24, 25, 26, 26H, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 or higher. In some instances, the titanium base alloy includes T1ALV4 or TiALNb-.

[0098] In some examples, the Nickel based alloy includes Alnico, Alumel, Chromel, Cupronickel, Ferronickel, German silver, Hastelloy, Inconel, Monel metal, Nichrome, Nickel-carbon, Nicrosil, Nisil, Nitinol, Hastelloy X, Cobalt-Chromium or Magnetically "soft" alloys. The magnetically “soft” alloys may comprise Mu-metal, Permalloy, Supermalloy, or Brass. The Brass may include nickel hydride, stainless or coin silver. The cobalt alloy may include Megallium, Stellite (e. g. Talonite), Ultimet, or Vitallium. The chromium alloy may include chromium hydroxide, or Nichrome.

|0099| In some examples, the aluminum-based alloy includes AA-8000, Al-Li (aluminum- lithium), Alnico, Duralumin, Hiduminium, Kry ron Magnalium, Nambe, Scandium-aluminum, or Y alloy. The magnesium alloy may be Elektron, Magnox or T-Mg-Al-Zn (Bergman phase) alloy. At times, the material excludes at least one aluminum-based alloy (e.g., AlSimMg).

[0100] In some examples, the copper based alloy comprises Arsenical copper, Beryllium copper, Billon, Brass, Bronze, Constantan, Copper hydride, Copper-tungsten, Corinthian bronze, Cunife, Cupronickel, Cymbal alloys, Devarda's alloy, Electrum, Hepatizon, Heusler alloy, Manganin, Molybdochalkos, Nickel silver, Nordic gold, Shakudo or Tumbaga. The Brass may include Calamine brass, Chinese silver, Dutch metal, Gilding metal, Muntz metal, Pinchbeck, Prince's metal, or Tombac. The Bronze may include Aluminum bronze, Arsenical bronze, Bell metal, Florentine bronze, Guanin, Gunmetal, Glucydur, Phosphor bronze, Ormolu, or Speculum metal. The elemental carbon may comprise graphite, Graphene, diamond, amorphous carbon, carbon fiber, carbon nanotube, or fullerene. The copper alloy may be a high-temperature copper alloy (e.g., GRCop-84).

[0101] In some embodiments, the pre-transformed (e.g., powder) material (also referred to herein as a “pulvcrous material”) comprises a solid comprising fine particles. The powder may be a granular material. The powder can be composed of individual particles. At least some of the particles can be spherical, oval, prismatic, cubic, or irregularly shaped. At least some of the particles can have a fundamental length scale (e.g., diameter, spherical equivalent diameter, length, width, or diameter of a bounding sphere). The fundamental length scale (abbreviated herein as “FLS”) of at least some of the particles can be from about 1 nanometers (nm) to about 1000 micrometers (microns), 500 microns, 400 microns, 300 microns, 200 microns, 100 microns, 50 microns, 40 microns, 30 microns, 20 microns, 10 microns, 1 micron, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm, 30 nm, 20 nm, 10 nm, or 5nm. At least some of the particles can have a FLS of at least about 1000 micrometers (microns), 500 microns, 400 microns, 300 microns, 200 microns, 100 microns, 50 microns, 40 microns, 30 microns, 20 microns, 10 microns, 1 micron, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm, 30 nm, 20 nm, 10 nm, 5 nanometers (nm) or more. At least some of the particles can have a FLS of at most about 1000 micrometers (microns), 500 microns, 400 microns, 300 microns, 200 microns, 100 microns, 50 microns, 40 microns, 30 microns, 20 microns, 10 microns, 1 micron, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm, 30 nm, 20 nm, 10 nm, 5nm or less. In some cases, at least some of the powder particles may have a FLS in between any of the aforementioned FLSs.

[0102] In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is composed of a homogenously shaped particle mixture such that all of the particles have (e.g., substantially) the same shape and FLS magnitude within at most about 1%, 5%, 8%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or less distribution of FLS. In some cases, the powder can be a heterogeneous mixture such that the particles have variable shape and/or FLS magnitude. In some examples, at least about 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, or 70% (by weight) of the particles within the powder material have a largest FLS that is smaller than the median largest FLS of the powder material. In some examples, at least about 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, or 70% (by weight) of the particles within the powder material have a largest FLS that is smaller than the mean largest FLS of the powder material.

10103] In some examples, the size of the largest FLS of the transformed material (e.g., height) is greater than the average largest FLS of the powder material by at least about 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.4 times, 1.6 times, 1.8 times, 2 times, 4 times, 6 times, 8 times, or 10 times. In some examples, the size of the largest FLS of the transformed material is greater than the median largest FLS of the powder material by at most about 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.4 times, 1.6 times, 1.8 times, 2 times, 4 times, 6 times, 8 times, or 10 times. The powder material can have a median largest FLS that is at least about I pm. 5 pm, I Opm. 20pm, 30pm, 40pm, 50 pm, 100 pm, or 200 pm. The powder material can have a median largest FLS that is at most about 1 pm, 5pm, 10pm, 20pm, 30pm, 40pm, 50 pm, 100 pm, or 200 pm. In some cases, the powder particles may have a FLS in between any of the FLS listed above (e.g., from about 1 m to about 200pm, from about 1 m to about 50pm, or from about 5pm to about 40pm).

[0104] In another aspect provided herein is a method for generating a 3D object comprising: a) depositing a layer of pre-transformed material in an enclosure (e.g., to form a material bed such as a powder bed); b) providing energy (e.g., using an energy beam) to at least a portion of the layer of pre-transformed material according to a path for transforming the at least a portion of the layer of pre-transformed material to form a transformed material as at least a portion of the 3D object; and c) optionally repeating operations a) to b) to generate the 3D object. The method may further comprise after operation b) and before operation c): allowing the transformed material to harden into a hardened material that forms at least a portion of the 3D object. The enclosure may comprise at least one chamber. The enclosure (e.g., the chamber) may comprise a building platform (e.g., a substrate and/or base). The 3D object may be printed adjacent to (e.g., above) the building platform.

[0105] In another aspect provided herein is a system for generating a 3D object comprising: an enclosure for accommodating at least one layer of pre-transformed material (e.g., powder); an energy (e g., energy beam) capable of transforming the pre-transformed material to form a transformed material; and a controller that directs the energy to at least a portion of the layer of pre-transformed material according to a path (e.g., as described herein). The transformed material may be capable of hardening to form at least a portion of a 3D object. The system may comprise an energy source, an optical system, a temperature control system, a material delivery mechanism (e.g., a recoater, or a layer dispensing mechanism), a pressure control system, an atmosphere control system, an atmosphere, a pump, a nozzle, a valve, a sensor, a central processing unit, a display, a chamber, or a computational schemes (e.g., embedded in a software and/or control system). The chamber may comprise a building platform. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use, software, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US 15/36802 filed on June 19, 2015, titled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/744,955 Tiled June 16, 2015, titled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; in International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US 16/66000 filed December 09, 2016, titled “SKILLFUL THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; and in U.S. Patent Application serial number 15/374,535 filed December 09, 2016, titled “SKILLFUL THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference. The FLS (e.g., width, depth, and/or height) of the material bed can be at least about 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, 280 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m or 5 m. The FLS (e.g., width, depth, and/or height) of the material bed can be at most about 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, 280 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m or 5 m. The FLS of the material bed can be between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 mm to about 5m, from about 250 mm to about 500 mm, from about 280 mm to about Im, or from about 500mm to about 5m).

[0106] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system (e g., Fig. 1, 100) comprises a chamber (e g , Fig. 1, 107, comprising an atmosphere 126; Fig. 2, 216). The chamber may be referred herein as the “processing chamber.” The processing chamber may comprise an energy beam (e.g., Fig. 1, 101; Fig. 2, 204) generated by an energy source (e.g., FIG. 1, 121). The energy beam may be directed towards an exposed surface (e.g., 119) of a material bed (e.g., Fig. 1, 104). The 3D printing system may comprise one or more modules (e.g., Fig. 2, 201, 202, and 203). The one or more modules may be referred herein as the “build modules.” At times, at least one build module (e.g., Fig. 1, 123) may be situated in the enclosure comprising the processing chamber (e.g., Fig. 1, comprising an atmosphere 126). At times, at least one build module may engage with the processing chamber (e.g., Fig. 1). At times, at least one build module may not engage with the processing chamber (e.g., Fig. 2). At times, a plurality of build modules (e.g., Fig. 2, 201, 202, and 203) may be situated in an enclosure (e.g., Fig. 2, 200) comprising the processing chamber (e.g., Fig. 2, 210). The build module may reversibly engage with (e.g., couple to) the processing chamber. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be controlled (e.g., by a controller, such as for example by a microcontroller). The control may be automatic and/or manual. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be reversible. In some embodiments, the engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be permanent. The FLS (e g., width, depth, and/or height) of the processing chamber can be at least about 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, 280 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m, or 5 m. The FLS of the processing chamber can be at most about 50 millimeters (mm), 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 250 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1 meter (m), 2 m, or 5 m. The FLS of the processing chamber can be between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., 50 mm to about 5m, from about 250 mm to about 500 mm, or from about 500 mm to about 5m).

[0107] In some embodiments, at least one of the build modules is operatively coupled to at least one controller. The controller may be its own controller. The controller may comprise a control circuit. The controller may comprise programmable control code. The controller may be different than the controller controlling the 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber. The controller controlling tire 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber may comprise a different control circuit than the control circuit of the build module controller. The controller controlling the 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber may comprise a different programmable control code than the programmable control code of the build module controller. The build module controller may communicate the engagement of the build module to the processing chamber. Communicating may comprise emitting signals to the processing chamber controller. The communication may cause initialization of the 3D printing. The communication may cause one or more load lock shutters to alter their position (e.g., to open). The build module controller may monitor sensors (e.g., position, motion, optical, thermal, spatial, gas, gas composition or location) within the build module. The build module controller may control (e.g., adjust) the active elements (e.g., actuator, atmosphere, elevator mechanism, valves, opening/closing ports, seals) within the build module based on the sensed measurements. The translation facilitator may comprise an actuator. The actuator may comprise a motor. The translation facilitator may comprise an elevation mechanism. The translation mechanism may comprise a gear (e g , a plurality of gears). The gear may be circular or linear. The translation facilitator may comprise a rack and pinion mechanism, or a screw. The translation facilitator (e.g., build module delivery system) may comprise a controller (e.g., its own controller). The controller of the translation facilitator may be different than the controller controlling the 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber. The controller of the translation facilitator may be different than the controller of the build module. The controller of the translation facilitator may comprise a control circuit (e.g., its own control circuit). The controller of the translation facilitator may comprise a programmable control code (e.g., its own programmable code). The build module controller and/or the translation facilitator controller may be a microcontroller. At times, the controller of the 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber may not interact with the controller of the build module and/or translation facilitator. At times, the controller of the build module and/or translation facilitator may not interact with die controller of the 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber. For example, die controller of the build module may not interact with the controller of the processing chamber. For example, the controller of the translation facilitator may not interact with the controller of the processing chamber. The controller of the 3D printing process and/or the processing chamber may be able to interpret one or more signals emitted from (e.g., by) the build module and/or translation facilitator. The controller of the build module and/or translation facilitator may be able to interpret one or more signals emitted from (e g , by) the processing chamber. The one or more signals may be electromagnetic, electronic, magnetic, pressure, or sound signals. The electromagnetic signals may comprise visible light, infrared, ultraviolet, or radio frequency signals. The electromagnetic signals may comprise a radio frequency identification signal (RFID). The RFID may be specific for a build module, user, entity, 3D object model, processor, material type, printing instruction, 3D print job, or any combination thereof.

[0108] In some embodiments, the build module controller controls an engagement of the build module with the processing chamber and/or load-lock. In some embodiments, the build module controller controls a disengagement (e.g., release and/or separation) of the build module with the processing chamber and/or loadlock. In some embodiments, the processing chamber controller may control the engagement of the build module with the processing chamber and/or load-lock. The processing chamber controller may control a disengagement (e.g., release, and/or separation) of the build module with the processing chamber and/or loadlock. In some embodiments, the load-lock controller may control the engagement of the build module with the processing chamber and/or load-lock. The load-lock controller may control a dis-engagement (e.g., release, and/or separation) of the build module with the processing chamber and/or load-lock. In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises one controller that is a build module controller, a processing chamber controller, or a load-lock controller. In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises at least two controllers selected from the group consisting of: a build module controller, a processing chamber controller, and a load-lock controller.

[0109] In some embodiments, when a plurality of controllers are configured to direct a plurality of operations; at least two operations of the plurality of operations can be directed by the same controller of the plurality of controllers. In some embodiments, when a plurality of controllers are configured to direct a plurality of operations; at least two operations of the plurality of operations can be directed by different controllers of the plurality of controllers.

[0110] In some embodiments, the build module controller controls the translation of the build module, sealing status of the build module, atmosphere of the build module, engagement of the build module with the processing chamber, exit of the build module from the enclosure, entry of the build module into the enclosure, or any combination thereof. Controlling the sealing status of the build module may comprise opening or closing of the build module shutter. The build chamber controller may be able to interpret signals from the 3D printing controller and/or processing chamber controller. The processing chamber controller may be the 3D printing controller. For example, the build module controller may be able to interpret and/or respond to a signal regarding the atmospheric conditions in the load lock. For example, the build module controller may be able to interpret and/or respond to a signal regarding the completion of a 3D printing process (e.g., when tire printing of a 3D object is complete). The build module may be connected to an actuator. The actuator may be translating or stationary. In some embodiments, the actuator may be coupled to a portion of the build module. For examples, the actuator may be coupled to a bottom surface of the build module. In some examples, the actuator may be coupled to a side surface of the build module (e.g., front, and/or back of the build module). The controller of the build module may direct the translation facilitator (e g., actuator) to translate the build module from one position to another (e g., arrows 221-224 in Fig. 2), when translation is possible. The translation facilitator (e g , actuator) may translate the build module in a vertical direction, horizontal direction or at an angle (e.g., planar and/or compound). In some examples, the build module may be heated during translation. The translation facilitator may be a build module delivery system. The translation facilitator may be autonomous. The translation facilitator may operate independently of the 3D printer (e.g., mechanisms directed by the 3D printing controller). The translation facilitator (e.g., build module delivery system) may comprise a controller and/or a motor. The translation facilitator may comprise a machine or a human. The translation is possible, for example, when the destination position of the build module is empty. The controller of the 3D printing and/or the processing chamber may be able to sense signals emitted from the controller of the build module. For example, the controller of the 3D printing and/or the processing chamber may be able to sense a signal from the build module that is emitted when the build module is docked into engagement position with the processing chamber. The signal from the build module may comprise reaching a certain position in space, reaching a certain atmospheric characteristic threshold, opening, or shutting the build platform closing, or engaging or disengaging (e.g., docking or undocking) from the processing chamber. The build module may comprise one or more sensors. For example, the build module may comprise a proximity, movement, light, sounds, or touch sensor.

[OHl] In some embodiments, the build module is included as part of the 3D printing system. In some embodiments, the build module is separate from the 3D printing system. The build module may be independent (e.g., operate independently) from the 3D printing system. For example, the build module may comprise its own controller, motor, elevator, build platform, valve, channel, or shutter. In some embodiments, one or more conditions differ between the build module and the processing chamber, and/or among the different build modules. The difference may comprise different pre-transformed materials, atmospheres, platforms, temperatures, pressures, humidity levels, oxygen levels, gas (e.g., inert), traveling speed, traveling method, acceleration speed, or post processing treatment For example, the relative velocity of the various build modules with respect to the processing chamber may be different, similar, or substantially similar. The build platform may undergo different, similar, or substantially similar post processing treatment (e.g., further processing of the 3D object and/or material bed after the generation of the 3D object in the material bed is complete).

[0112] In some embodiments, at least one build module translates relative to the processing chamber. The translation may be parallel or substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the build chamber. The bottom surface of the build chamber is the one closest to the gravitational center. The translation may be at an angle (e.g., planar or compound) relative to the bottom surface of the build chamber. The translation may use any device that facilitates translation (e.g., an actuator). For example, the translation facilitator may comprise a robotic arm, conveyor (e.g., conveyor belt), rotating screw, or a moving surface (e.g., platform). The translation facilitator may comprise a chain, rail, motor, or an actuator. The translation facilitator may comprise a component that can move another. The movement may be controlled (e.g., using a controller). The movement may comprise using a control signal and source of energy (e.g., electricity). The translation facilitator may use electricity, pneumatic pressure, hydraulic pressure, or human power.

[0113] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises multiple build modules. The 3D printing system may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 build modules. Fig. 2 shows an example of three build modules (e.g., 201, 202, and 203) and one processing chamber 210.

[0114] In some embodiments, at least one build module (e.g., 201, 202, and 203) engages (e.g., 224) with the processing chamber to expand the interior space (e.g., having a volume) of the processing chamber. At times, the build module may be connected to, or may comprise an autonomous guided vehicle (AGV). The AGV may have at least one of the following: a movement mechanism (e.g., wheels), positional (e.g., optical) sensor, and controller. The controller (e.g., build module controller) may enable self-docking of the build module (e.g., to a docking station) and/or self-driving of the AGV. The sclf-docking of the build module (e.g., to the processing chamber) and/or self-driving may be to and from the processing chamber. The build module may engage with (e.g., couple to) the processing chamber. The engagement may be reversible. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be controlled (e g., by a controller). The controller may be separate from a controller that controls the processing chamber (or any of its components). In some embodiments, the controller of the processing chamber may be the same controller that controls the build module. The control may be automatic, remote, local, and/or manual. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be reversible. In some embodiments, the engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be permanent. The controller (e.g., of the build module) may control the engagement of the build module with a load lock mechanism (e.g., that is coupled to the processing chamber). Control may comprise regulate, monitor, restrict, limit, govern, restrain, supervise, direct, guide, manipulate, or modulate.

[0115] In some embodiments, during at least a portion of the 3D printing process, the atmospheres of at least two of the processing chambers, build module, and enclosure may merge. The merging may be through a load lock environment. At times, during at least a portion of the 3D printing process, the atmospheres of the chamber and enclosure may remain separate. During at least a portion of the 3D printing process, the atmospheres of the build module and processing chamber may be separate. The build module may be mobile or stationary. The build module may comprise an elevator. The elevator may be connected to a platform (e.g., building platform). The elevator may be reversibly connected to at least a portion of the platform (e.g., to the base). The elevator may be irreversibly connected to at least a portion of the platform (e.g., to the substrate). The platform may be separated from one or more walls (e.g., side walls) of the build module by a seal (e.g., Fig. 2, 211; Fig. 1, 103). The seal may be impermeable or substantially impermeable to gas. The seal may be permeable to gas. The seal may be flexible. The seal may be elastic. The seal may be bendable. The seal may be compressible. The seal may comprise rubber (e.g., latex), Teflon, plastic, or silicon. The seal may comprise a mesh, membrane, sieve, paper (e.g., filter paper), cloth (e.g., felt), or brush. The mesh, membrane, paper and/or cloth may comprise randomly and/or non-randomly arranged fibers. The seal may be permeable to at least one gas, and impermeable to the pre-transformed (e.g., and to the transformed) material. The seal may not allow a pre-transformed (e.g, and to the transformed) material to pass through. [0116] In some embodiments, the platform is separated from the elevator by a seal. The seal may be attached to the moving platform (e.g., while the walls of the build platform are devoid of a seal). The seal may be attached to the (e g., vertical) walls of the build platform (e g , while the platform is devoid of a seal). In some embodiments, both the platform and the walls of tire enclosure comprise a seal. The platform seal may be placed laterally (e.g., horizontally) between one or more walls (e.g., side walls) of the build module. The platform seal may be connected to the bottom plane of the platform. The platform seal may be permeable to gas. The platform seal may be impermeable to particulate material (e.g., powder). The platform seal may not permeate particulate material into the elevator mechanism. The platform seal may be flexible. The platform seal may be elastic. The platform seal may be bendable. The platform seal may be compressible. The platform seal may comprise a polymeric material (e.g., nylon, polymethane), Teflon, plastic, rubber (e.g., latex), or silicon. The platform seal may comprise a mesh, membrane, sieve, paper (e.g., filter paper), cloth (e.g., felt, or wool), or brush. The mesh, membrane, paper and/or cloth may comprise randomly and/or non-randomly arranged fibers.

[0117] In some embodiments, the build module comprises multiple (e.g., two) chambers. The two chambers may be an internal chamber and an external chamber. At times, the bottom plane of the at least one of the two chambers (e.g., the internal chamber) may comprise at least one seal. The bottom seal may allow a gas to pass through. The internal seal may be permeable to a gas, but not to a pre-transformed or transformed material. For example, the internal seal may be permeable to a gas, but not to a particulate material. The bottom seal may be placed laterally (e.g., horizontally) between one or more walls (e.g., side walls) of the internal chamber. The bottom seal may be placed through a wall (e.g., side walls) of the internal chamber. The bottom seal may be placed within an opening in a wall (e.g., side walls) of internal chamber. The bottom seal may allow a gas to circulate and/or equilibrate between the internal chamber and external chamber. The bottom seal may hinder passage of pre-transformed or transformed material from the first chamber to the second chamber (e.g., comprising one or more bearings and/or motors). The bottom seal may serve as protectors of the elevation mechanism. The bottom seal may be connected to the bottom plane of the internal chamber. The bottom seal may be placed beneath the platform. Beneath may be closer to the gravitational center. The bottom seal may not allow permeation of pre-transformed (e.g., particulate) material into the elevator mechanism. The bottom seal may (e g., substantially) hold the atmosphere of the build module inert. Substantially may be relative to its effect on the 3D printing. Substantially may be imposing a negligible effect on the 3D printing. The bottom seal may (e.g., substantially) facilitate in maintenance of the atmosphere of the build module. The bottom seal may be flexible. The bottom seal may be elastic. The bottom seal may be bendable. The bottom seal may be compressible. The bottom seal may comprise a polymer material (e.g., wool, nylon), Teflon, plastic, rubber (e.g., latex) or silicon. The bottom seal may comprise a mesh, membrane, sieve, paper (e.g., fdter paper), cloth (e.g., felt), or brush. The bottom seal may comprise any material that the platform seal comprises. The material of the bottom seal can be (e.g., substantially) identical of different than the platform seal. The build module and/or processing chamber may comprise an openable shutter. For example, the build module and processing chamber may each comprise a separate openable shutter. The shutter may be a seal, door, blockade, stopple, stopper, plug, piston, cover, roof, hood, block, stopple, obstruction, lid, closure, or a cap. The shutter may be opened upon engagement of the build module with the processing chamber. The internal chamber may comprise one or more openings. The openings may allow the shaft and/or encoder to pass through. The openings may be sealed by a seal (e.g., a gas permeable seal).

[0118] In some examples, the shafts and/or the encoder are engulfed by a seal. At times, the seal may engulf a portion of the encoder and/or the shaft (e.g., engulf a horizontal cross section of the encoder and/or shaft). At times, the seal may engulf the entire shaft and/or encoder. The seal may comprise a bearing, gas flow, diaphragm, cloth, or mesh. The seal may be expandable and/or contractible. The seal may be elastic. The seal may be compressible (e.g., on pressure, or as a result of the elevator operation). The seal may be extensible. The seal may return to its original shape and/or size when released (e.g., from pressure, or vacuum). The seal may compress and/or expand relative (e.g., proportionally) to the amount of translation of the elevator mechanism (e.g., the shaft and/or the encoder). The seal may compress and/or expand relative to the amount of pressure applied (e.g., within the build module). The seal may reduce (e.g., prevent) permeation of pre -transformed (e.g., particulate) material from one side of the seal to the opposing side of the seal. The seal may facilitate protection of the elevation mechanism (e.g., comprising a guide, rail, bearing, or actuator (e.g., motor)), by reducing (e.g., blocking) permeation of the pre-transformed material through the seal.

[0119] In some examples, a portion of the shaft is engulfed by a seal. In some examples, the seal may engulf the circumference of a vertical cross section of the shaft (e.g., cylindric section of a cylindrical shaft). The seal may comprise at least one elastic vessel. The seal can be compressed (e.g., when pressure is applied), or extended (e.g., under vacuum). The seal can be a metal seal (e.g., comprising elemental metal or metal alloy). The material may have high plastic elongation characteristic, high-strength, and/or be resistant to corrosion. The seal may comprise a flexible element (e.g., a spring, wire, tube, or diaphragm). The seal may be (e.g., controllably) expandable and/or contractible. The control may be before, during, and/or after operation of the shaft, encoder, and/or a component of the elevation mechanism. The control may be manual and/or automatic (e.g., using at least one controller). The seal may be elastic. The seal may be extendable and/or compressible (e.g., on pressure, or as a result of the elevator operation). The seal may comprise pneumatic, electric, and/or magnetic elements. The seal may comprise gas that can be compressed and/or expanded. The seal may be extensible. The seal may return to its original shape and/or size when released (e.g., from positive pressure, or vacuum). The seal may extend and/or contract as a consequence of the movement of the shaft and/or encoder. The seal may extend and/or contract as a consequence of the operation of the actuator. The seal may compress and/or expand relative (e.g., proportionally ) to the amount of translation of the elevation mechanism (e.g., translation facilitated by the shaft). The seal may compress and/or expand relative to the amount of pressure applied (e.g., within the build module). The seal may reduce the amount of (e.g., prevent) permeation of particulate material from one side of the seal to its opposite side. The seal may protect the actuator(s), by blocking permeation of the particulate material to the area where the actuators reside. The seal may reduce (e.g., prevent) migration of a pre-transformed (or transformed) material and/or debris through a partition (e.g., wall) that separates the platform from the actuator (e.g., motor) of the shaft and/or encoder, and/or guide (e.g., railing). The seal may reduce (e.g., hinder) migration of a pre-transformed (or transformed) material and/or debris from the material bed towards the actuator (e.g., motor) and/or guide (e.g., railing). The seal may facilitate confinement of pretransformed (or transformed) material and/or debris in one side of the partition. The seal may facilitate separation between the pre-transformed (or transformed) material and/or debris and the actuator and/or railing that facilitates movement of the platform. The seal may facilitate proper operation of the actuator and/or railing, by reducing the amount of (e.g., preventing) pre-transformed (or transformed) material and/or debris from reaching (e.g., and clogging) them. The seal may reduce an amount of (e.g., prevent) pretransformed (or transformed) material and/or debris from crossing the partition. The seal may facilitate cleaning the shaft and/or encoder from pre-transformed material and/or debris.

[0120] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a load-lock mechanism. The load-lock mechanism may be operatively coupled to a processing chamber and/or a build module. The processing chamber comprises the energy beam. The build module comprises a build platform comprising a substrate, a base, and an elevator shaft that allows the platform to move vertically up and down. The elevator shaft may comprise a single shaft. The elevator shaft may comprise a plurality of shafts. In some embodiments, as a part of tire load-lock mechanism, the build module may comprise a shutter. In some embodiments, as a part of the load-lock mechanism, the processing chamber may comprise a shutter. The shutter may be openable (e.g., by the build module controller, the processing chamber controller, or the load lock controller). The shutter may be removable (e.g., by the build module controller, the processing chamber controller, or the load lock controller). The removal of the shutter may comprise manual or automatic removal. The build module shutter may be opened while being connected to the build module. The processing chamber shutter may be opened while being connected to the processing chamber (e.g., through connector). The shutter connector may comprise a hinge, chain, or a rail. In an example, the shutter may be opened in a manner similar to opening a door or a window. The shutter may be opened by swiveling (e.g., similar to opening a door or a window held on a hinge). The shutter may be opened by its removal from the opening which it blocks. The removal may be guided (e.g., by a rail, arm, pulley, crane, or conveyor). The guiding may be using a robot. The guiding may be using at least one motor and/or gear. The shutter may be opened while being disconnected from the build module. For example, the shutter may be opened similar to opening a lid. The shutter may be opened by shifting or sliding (e g., to a side).

[0121] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system (e g., 3D printer) comprises a secondary locking mechanism (e g., also referred to herein as a “secondary locker”). The secondary locker may facilitate engagement and/or locking of the build module to the processing chamber and/or to the load lock. The secondary locker may brace, band, clamp, or clasp tire build module to the load lock and/or processing chamber. The secondary locker may hold the build module together with the (i) processing chamber and/or (ii) load lock. The secondary locker may comprise a clamping station. The secondary locker may comprise a docking station. The secondary locker may comprise a first supporting component, and a second supported component. The supporting components may move laterally (e.g., horizontally). The supporting components may rotate about an axis (e.g., vertical axis). The supporting components may move (e.g., laterally or about an axis to facilitate engagement (e.g., clamping) of the build module with the processing chamber. The build module may comprise the supported component of the secondary locker. The supported component may be a fixture (e.g., first fixture). The supporting component may be a hook. The processing chamber and/or load lock may comprise the supporting component of the secondary locker. The supporting component may be a fixture (e.g., second fixture). The build module may engage the supported component coupled thereto, with the supporting component that is coupled to the processing chamber, which engagement may facilitate engagement of the build module with the processing chamber. The build module may engage the supported component coupled thereto, with the supporting component of the load lock. The engagement may facilitate coupling of the build module with the load lock. At least one component of the secondary locker may be coupled to the load-lock. At least one component of the secondary locker may be positioned adjacent to the load lock, and/or to the processing chamber. At least one component of the secondary locker may be positioned adjacent to the load lock. For example, at least one component of the secondary locker may be coupled to a bottom surface of the load-lock. For example, at least one component of the secondary locker (c.g., supporting structure, e.g., shelf or hook) may be coupled to at a bottom surface of the processing chamber. The secondary locker may facilitate securing the build module to the processing chamber and/or load-lock. The secondary locker may be (e.g., controllably) engaged (e.g., latched). The secondary locker may be disengaged (e.g., un-latched). Tire components of the secondary locker may engage and/or disengage before, or after the 3D printing. The control may be manual and/or automatic. The control may comprise one or more controllers that are operatively coupled to at least one component of the secondary locker. The secondary lock may be formed (e.g., the supporting and supported components engaged) before and/or after the load-lock is formed. The secondary locker may be un-locked (e.g., unlatch, or de-clamp) before and/or after the load-lock is released. The secondary locker may comprise an interlocking mechanism (e.g., a clamping mechanism). The interlocking mechanism may comprise a screw, nut, cam lock, kinematic coupling, or an interlocking wedge and cavity mechanism. The interlocking mechanism may include a clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism may be any clamping mechanism described herein. A first (e.g., supported) component of the interlocking mechanism may be coupled to a portion of the external engagement mechanism and/or build module. A second (e.g., supporting) component of the interlocking mechanism may be coupled to the processing chamber and/or load lock (e.g., a bottom surface of the loadlock). In some embodiments, the first component and the second component of the secondary locker may be coupled (e g., interlocked, clamped, connected, fastened, locked, latched, or clasped) to facilitate engagement of the build module with the processing chamber and/or load-lock. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be facilitated by the external engagement mechanism (e.g., as described herein). The external engagement mechanism may comprise an actuator. The translation of the build module towards the processing chamber may be detected by one or more detectors (e.g., disposed along the way). The temperature within the build module (e.g., during the translation and/or engagement) may be controller and/or altered. For example, the build module temperature may be cooled and/or heated (e.g., during the translation and/or engagement with the processing chamber and/or load lock). The actuator may be controlled (c.g., manually and/or by a controller) before, during and/or after the 3D printing. The external engagement mechanism may be external to the build module. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may form the load-lock. The load lock may comprise a bottom shutter of the processing chamber, a shutter of the build module, the secondary locker, and an optional supporting structure. The supporting structure may couple (e.g., physically) the supporting component of the secondary locker to the processing chamber. The secondary locker may be secured using an interlocking mechanism. The first component of the secondary locker may be complementary to the second component of the secondary locker. The supporting structure and/or first component of the secondary locker may be translatable (e.g., rotatable). For example, the supporting structure may rotate about a vertical axis to cause the first component that is attached thereto, to rotate (e.g., towards the build module). For example, the first component may translate (e.g., horizontally) towards or away from the build module. The translation of the supporting structure and/or first component may facilitate latching the build module to the processing chamber and/or load lock. The second component may comprise a cavity, or a protrusion. The contact of the first component with the second component may be (e.g., substantially) gas tight. The contact of the first component with the second component may allow exchange of an atmosphere in the load lock and/or processing chamber. The contact may be between two (e.g., smooth, or flat) surfaces. For example, the contact may be a metal -to-metal contact. The metal may comprise elemental metal or metal alloy. The secondary locker may comprise bearing. In some embodiments, the supported and/or supporting component may comprise a compressible material. The compressible material may comprise an O-ring, ball, or slab. The compressible material may be compressed upon engagement of the supported component with the supporting component, to allow a tight engagement (e.g., gas tight engagement).

[0122] In some embodiments, the build module engages with the processing chamber. The engagement may comprise engaging the supported component with the supporting component. The supported component (e.g., first fixture) may be operatively coupled to the build module. The supported component may be able to carry the weight of the build module, 3D object, material bed, or any combination thereof. The supporting component (e.g., second fixture) may be operatively coupled to the processing chamber. The supporting component may be operatively coupled to the processing chamber through the load lock. For example, the supporting component may be directly coupled to the processing chamber. For example, the supporting component may be directly coupled to the load lock that is coupled to the processing chamber. The supported component may be able to support a weight of the build module, 3D object, material bed, or any combination thereof. The supporting component may be able to support a weight of at least about 10 kilograms (Kg), 50Kg, l OOKg, 500Kg, lOOOKg, 1500Kg, 2000Kg, 2500Kg, 3000Kg, or 5000Kg. The supporting component may be able to support the weight of at most about 500Kg, lOOOKg, 1500Kg, 2000Kg, 2500Kg, 3000Kg, or 5000Kg. The supporting component may be able to support a weight of any weight value between the afore mentioned weight values (e.g., from about lOKg to about 5000Kg, from about lOKg to about 500Kg, from about lOOKg to about 2000Kg, or from about lOOOKg to about 5000Kg). The supported component may be able to carry a weight having any of the weight values that the supporting component is able to support. In some embodiments, the supported component comprises a plurality of parts (e.g., even number of parts). In some embodiments, the supporting component comprises a plurality of parts (e.g., even number of parts). At times, the two parts in a pair of parts of the supported component arc disposed at opposing sides of the build module. The parts of the supporting component are disposed in a manner that facilitates coupling of the supported component part(s) with the supporting component part(s). [0123] In some embodiments, the engagement of the supported component with the supported component is eased. The ease may be facilitated by including a slanted surface in the supporting and/or supported component. The ease may be facilitated by including a rolling surface (e.g., a wheel or ball) in the supporting and/or supported component. In some examples, at least a part of the supporting component comprises a slanted surface, and at least a part of the supported component comprises the rolling surface. In some examples, at least a part of the supported component comprises a slanted surface, and at least a part the supporting component comprises a rolling surface. For example, the supporting component comprises a slanted surface, and the supported component comprises a rolling surface. For example, the supported component comprises a slanted surface, and the supporting component comprises a rolling surface. For example, a first part of the supported component comprises a slanted surface, and a complementary first part of the supporting component comprises a rolling surface; a second part of the supporting component comprises a slanted surface, and a complementary second part of the supported component comprises a rolling surface.

[0124] In some embodiments, the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure comprises one or more seals. The seal may be a sliding seal or a top seal. For example, the build module and/or processing chamber may comprise a sliding seal drat meets with the exterior of the build module upon engagement of the build module with the processing chamber. For example, the processing chamber may comprise a top seal that faces the build module and is pushed upon engagement of the processing chamber with the build module. For example, the build module may comprise a top seal that faces the processing chamber and is pushed upon engagement of the processing chamber with the build module. The seal may be a face seal, or compression seal. The seal may comprise an O-ring.

[0125] In some embodiments, the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure are sealed, sealable, or open. The atmosphere of the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may be regulated. The build module may be sealed, sealable, or open. The processing chamber may be sealed, sealable, or open. The enclosure may be sealed, sealable, or open. The build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may comprise a valve and/or a gas opening port. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be below, or above the building platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed at the horizontal plane of the build platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed at the adjacent to the build platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed between the processing chamber and the build module. The valve may allow at least one gas to travel through. The gas may enter or exit through the valve. For example, the gas may enter or exit the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure through the valve. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may be individually controlled. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least two of the build modules, processing chamber, and enclosure may be separately controlled. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least two of the build modules, processing chamber, and enclosure may be controlled in concert (e.g., simultaneously). In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least one of the build modules, processing chamber, or enclosure may be controlled by controlling the atmosphere of at least one of the build module, processing chamber, or enclosure in any combination or permutation. In some examples, the atmosphere in the build module is not controllable by controlling the atmosphere in the processing chamber. [0126] In some embodiments, the processing chamber comprises a removable shutter. The processing chamber may comprise an opening (e.g., a processing chamber opening) which can be closed by the processing chamber shuter. The processing chamber shuter may be reversibly removable from the processing chamber opening. The processing chamber opening may face the gravitational center, and/or the build module. The processing chamber opening may face a direction opposing the optical window. The removable shuter can be controllably and/or reversibly removable (e g , from the processing chamber opening). Control may comprise any controller disclosed herein. The processing chamber shuter may separate (e.g., and isolate) the interior of the processing chamber from an ambient (e.g., external) atmosphere. In some embodiments, the build module comprises a build module shuter that separates (e.g., isolates) an interior environment of the build module from an external environment. The separation of environments may facilitate maintaining less reactive, oxygen depleted, humidity depleted, and/or inert atmosphere in the interior of the processing chamber and/or build module. The build module shutter may engage with the processing chamber shutter. The build module may comprise an opening (e.g., a build module opening) which can be closed by the build module shuter. The build module shuter may be reversibly removable from the build module opening. The build module opening may face a direction opposite to the gravitational center. The build module opening may face the processing chamber. The build module opening may face a direction of the optical window. The engagement of the build module with the processing chamber may be reversible and/or controlled (e.g., manually and/or using a controller). In some embodiments, the build module shuter may engage with the processing chamber shuter. The engagement of these shuters may facilitate merging the processing chamber atmosphere with the build module atmosphere. The engagement of these shuters may facilitate merging the build module opening with the processing chamber opening. The merging of the shuters may facilitate irradiation of the energy beam through the processing chamber onto a material bed that is supported by a platform, or onto the platform. The platform may originate from the build module. The engagement of the build module shuter with the processing chamber shuter may be reversible and/or controlled (e.g., manually and/or using a controller). The engagement of the shuters may facilitate removal of both shuters collectively. In some examples, the shuters may not engage. The removal (e.g., by translation) of the build module shuter and the processing chamber shuter may be in the same direction or in different directions. The translation may be to any direction (e g., any of the six spatial directions). The direction may comprise a Cartesian direction. The direction may comprise a cardinal direction. The direction may be horizontal or vertical. The direction may be lateral. In some examples, the shuters may be removed (e.g., from a position where they shut the opening) separately.

[0127] In some embodiments, one shuter (e.g., lid) comprises an engaging mechanism that engages with a second shuter (e.g., lid). The one shutter may be the processing chamber shuter, and the second shuter may be the build module shutter, or vice versa. In some embodiments, both the one shuter and the second shuter comprise engaging mechanisms that engages with the pairing shuter. For example, the processing chamber shutter (e.g., lid) and the build module shuter comprise engaging mechanisms that engage with each other. The engagement may be controllable and/or reversible. Control may be manual and/or automatic. The engagement mechanism may comprise physical, magnetic, electrostatic, electronic, or hydraulic force. For example, the engagement mechanism may comprise a physical force. The engagement mechanism may comprise a latching configuration in which at least one portion of the one shuter engages with at least one portion of the second shutter to facilitate their mutual translation in a direction. For example, the engagement mechanism may comprise a latching configuration in which at least one portion of the processing chamber shutter engages with at least one portion of the build module shutter to facilitate their mutual translation in a direction. The latching mechanism may comprise a stationary portion on the one shutter, and a rotating portion on the second shutter. The latching mechanism may comprise movable portions on both pairing shutters (e.g., which move towards each other, e.g., in opposing directions). The movement (e.g., rotation) may facilitate pairing (e.g., engagement) of the shutters. The engagement mechanism may comprise a continuous or non-continuous ledge. The engagement mechanism may comprise rotating or non-rotating (e.g., stationary) ledge (e.g., latch). In some embodiments, at least a portion of a shutter may translate (e.g., rotate) to facilitate engagement of the two shutters. For example, the shutter may translate (e.g., rotate) to facilitate engagement of the two shutters. For example, the build module (e.g., along with its shutter) may translate (e.g., rotate) to facilitate engagement of the shutters. In some embodiments, the ledges (e.g., latches) are stationary. In some embodiments, the ledges are movable. For example, the ledges may swing (e.g., about a vertical center, or off die vertical center of their vertical portion) to facilitate engagement of the shutters. The shutter may be in any orientation. The shutter may be sensitive to its position in space (e.g., using one or more positional sensors). The spring may be released by removing a pin and/or using an actuator. The pin may be rotatable (e.g., along the vertical axis, which rotation may be controllable. The respective movement may facilitate engagement and/or disengage with a (e.g., stationary) of the one shutter with the second shutter. The rotation of one shutter portion with respect to the other shutter portion may be along a vertical axis. At least one ledge (e.g., all the ledges) may be an integral part of the shutter; may be removable and/or may be replaceable. In some embodiments, a portion (e.g., slab) of one shutter may be attracted to the second shutter. Attraction may comprise a mechanical, magnetic, electronic, electrostatic, pneumatic (e.g., gas pressure and/or vacuum suction), or hydraulic force. The mechanical force may comprise a spring. The electronic force may comprise an actuator. The magnetic force may comprise a magnet.

[0128] In some embodiments, the first shuter and/or second shuter are operatively coupled to a mechanism that facilitates movement away from the processing cone. The processing cone is the area where the energy beam can translate (e g., travel) during the 3D printing. For example, the movement may be to a side of the processing cone. In some examples, the first shuter and/or second shuter are configured to travel along a shaft (e.g., rail, and/or bar). The rail may comprise one or more rotating devices (e.g., wheels, cylinders, and/or balls), which facilitate (e.g., smooth, e.g., reduced friction) translation of one or more shuters. The direction may be a lateral (e g., horizontal) direction. The shaft may be coupled to one or more linkages. The linkages may pivot. The linkages may comprise a hinge. The one or more linkages may facilitate movement of the shaft in a direction. The linkages may facilitate lateral (e.g., horizontal) and/or vertical movement of the shaft. For example, the linkages may, facilitate converting the lateral shaft movement to a vertical movement. The one or more linkages may swivel (e.g., to facilitate movement in a direction). The shaft can actuate lateral translation of the one or more shuters. The shaft may be guide. Tire shaft may comprise a cam follower or track follower. The shaft may comprise one or more bearings (e.g., roller bearing, or needle bearing). The shaft may comprise a mating part. The shaft may comprise a stud or a yoke. The stud may comprise an eccentric stud. The shaft may comprise a reducing friction element (e.g., rotating device). The shaft may be crowned or cylindrical. The shaft (or its mating part) may comprise a slot. The shaft may comprise a bushing. The shaft may be adjustable (e g., during installation), for example, to reduce (e g., eliminate) backlash For instance, the bushing may facilitate adjustment of the shaft (e g., during installation), for example, to reduce (e.g., eliminate) backlash.

[0129] In some embodiments, the build module translates in an upwards direction following engagement with the processing chamber. For the engagement process, in which the shutters are removed to remove the separation between the build module and the processing chamber, the build module translates (e.g., vertically) towards the energy source, to a (e.g., preferred) position where the energy beam can facilitate printing the 3D object. The movement of the one or more shutters and/or build module may be controlled (e.g., in real time). The control may comprise sensing signals from one or more sensors. The atmosphere in the build module and/or processing chamber can be maintained (e.g., as different from the ambient atmosphere) throughout the engagement process of the processing chamber with the build module (e g., through usage of one or more seals). The seal may be a gas tight seal. The seal may be a physical barrier (e.g., and not gas tight).

[0130] The engagement of the two shutters described herein may be utilized when engaging the build module with the processing chamber and/or with the unpacking station. The engagement of the shutter may form a load lock (e.g., the load lock may be formed betw een the shutters). The engagement of the two shutters may be used when engaging the build module with a load lock. The engagement of the two shutters can be controlled (e.g., manually and/or automatically using a controller) before, during and/or after the 3D printing.

[0131] In some embodiments, the shutter may comprise one or more components (e.g., segments, or portions). At least one of the shutter components may be (e.g., controllably) translatable. For example, the build module shutter may comprise two horizontal sections that are separable (e.g., upon exertion of pressure). The pressure can be effectuated by an actuator (e.g., pneumatic, electric, magnetic, or hydraulic actuator). For example, the processing chamber shutter may comprise at least one (e.g., vertical) translatable pin. For example, the processing chamber shutter may comprise at least one (e g., vertical) translatable pin. For example, the processing chamber may comprise at least one latch. The latch may be swiveling and/or contractible. The latch may be a hook. In some examples, the pairing of the shutters comprises translating one or more translatable components of at least one of the pairing shutters. For example, the pairing of the shutters may comprise forcing the horizontal components of the build module shutter to separate, e.g., by pushing the translatable pin of the build module. The (e.g., vertical) gap and/or structural void between the processing chamber shutter and the build module shutter may constitute a load lock.

[0132] In some embodiments, the build module shutter couples to, or comprise, a seal. The seal may be formed from a flexible (clastic, contractible) material. For example, the seal may comprise a polymeric material, or a resin. For example, the seal may comprise rubber or latex. The seal may (e.g., horizontally) surround die build module. Horizontally surrounding of the build module shutter may facilitate separating the internal environment of die build module from the external enviromnent. For example, the seal may be a ring (e.g., O-ring, or doughnut shaped ring). The seal may separate the interior of the build module from the external environment. The seal may be gas tight. The seal may reduce gas exchange between the external environment and the interior environment of the build module. In one configuration, the shutter may press the seal against a wall for (e.g., substantially) preserve an interior environment. For example, in one configuration of the build module shutter, the build module shutter seal may be (e g , laterally) pressed towards the build module walls to (e.g., substantially) preserve the build module interior environment. The lateral (e.g., horizontal) pressure of the seal towards the walls may withstand a pressure of at least 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.8 or 2.0 PSI above ambient pressure (e.g., atmospheric pressure). The pairing of the shutters may facilitate contraction of a seal. For example, the pairing of the shutters may comprise forcing separation of the horizontal components of the build module shutter to separate, and allow contraction of a seal. The contraction of the seal may facilitate separation of the build module shutter from the build module container. The build module shutter can comprise at least one seal. The seal can surround the shutter. For example, the seal can be ring shaped. At least one horizontal shutter portion edge may be slanted. The slanting edge may contact the seal. An alteration of die vertical position of the slanted edge with respect to the seal may facilitate lateral movement of the seal. The seal may tend to move to one lateral direction (e.g., as it contracts). The vertical movement of the slanted edge may force the seal to move in a second lateral direction opposite to the one direction. One or more linkages may swivel, pivot, revolve, and/or swing. The one or more linkages may facilitate translation of the shutter(s) along the rail. The translation mechanism may comprise a shaft, rotating device, rail, cam follower, cam guide, or a linkage. The linkage may be coupled to at least a portion of the processing chamber shutter and/or the build module shutter. The shaft may push the one or more rotating devices to facilitate translation of the shutter(s). For example, the shaft may push the one or more rotating devices (e.g., revolving devices) along the rail to facilitate (e.g., lateral) translation of the shutter(s) along the rail. The translation of the shutter(s) may be guided by a cam guide and/or cam follower. The translation mechanism may be configured to translate the shutter(s) vertically and/or horizontally. The translation mechanism may be configured to translate the shutter(s) laterally. The translation mechanism may be configured to translate the shutter(s) towards an opening and/or away from an opening. The opening may be of the processing chamber and/or of the build module. The translation mechanism may be coupled to at least one portion of the processing chamber shutter and/or build module shutter. The latches may be swiveling latches. The translation to the position may be by swiveling, swinging, or rotating (e.g., about a vertical axis).

[0133] In some embodiments, the material bed is of a cylindrical or cuboid shape. The material bed may translate. The translation may be vertical (e.g., Fig. 1, 112). The translation may be rotational. The rotation (e.g., 127) may be about a vertical axis (e.g., 105). The translation of the material bed may be facilitated by a translation of the substrate (e.g., 109). The translation may be controlled (e.g., manually and/or automatically, e.g., using a controller). The translation may be during at least a portion of the 3D printing. For example, the translation may be before using the energy beam (e.g., 101) to transform the pretransformed material. For example, the translation may be before using the layer dispensing mechanism (e.g., 116, 117, and 118). The rotation may be at any angle. For example, any value of the angle alpha described herein. The translation may be prior to deposition of a layer of pre-transformed material. [0134] In some embodiments, the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure comprises a gas equilibration channel. The gas (e.g., pressure and/or content) may equilibrate between at least two of the build module, processing chamber, and enclosure through the gas equilibration channel. At least two of the build modules, processing chamber, and enclosure may be fluidly connected through the gas equilibration channel. In some embodiments, the gas equilibration may be connected to the processing chamber. The gas equilibration channel may couple to a wall of a build module (e.g., as it docks). In some embodiments, the gas equilibration may be connected to the build module. The gas equilibration channel may couple to a wall of the processing chamber (e.g., as the build module docks). The gas equilibration channel may comprise a valve and/or a gas opening port. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed in the build module below, or above the building platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed in the build module at the horizontal plane of the build platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed in the build module adjacent to the build platform. The valve and/or a gas opening port may be disposed between the processing chamber and the build module. For example, the gas equilibration channel may be connected to the load-lock. The load lock can comprise a partition (e.g., a wall) that defines an internal volume of the load lock. The gas equilibration channel may couple to the build module (e.g., as the build module docks). For example, the gas equilibration channel may be connected to build module. The gas equilibration channel may couple to the load-lock (e.g., as the build module docks). The valve may allow at least one gas to travel through. The gas may enter or exit through the valve. For example, the gas may enter or exit the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure through the valve.

[0135] In some embodiments, the gas equilibration channel controls (e.g., maintain) the atmospheric pressure and/or gas content within at least two of the build modules, processing chamber, and load-lock area. Control may include closing the opening port and/or valve. For example, control may include opening the opening port and/or valve to perform exchange of atmospheres between the build module and/or the processing chamber. Control may include controlling the flow of gas. The flow of gas may be from the build module to the processing chamber or vice-versa. The flow of gas may be from the build module to the load-lock area or vice-versa. Maintaining the gas pressure and/or content may include closing the opening port and/or valve. Maintaining may include inserting gas into the build module, processing chamber, and/or load-lock area. Maintaining may include inserting gas into the processing chamber. Maintaining may include evacuating gas from the build module, load-lock area, and/or processing chamber. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of the build module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may be individually controlled. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least two of the build modules, processing chamber, load-lock area, and enclosure may be separately controlled. In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least two of the build modules, processing chamber, load-lock area, and enclosure may be controlled in concert (e.g., simultaneously). In some embodiments, the atmosphere of at least one of the build modules, processing chamber, load-lock area, or enclosure may be controlled by controlling the atmosphere of at least one of the different build module, processing chamber, load-lock area, or enclosure in any combination or permutation. In some examples, the atmosphere in the build module is not controllable by controlling the atmosphere in the processing chamber and/or load-lock area. [0136] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a load lock. The load lock may be disposed between the processing chamber and the build module. The load lock may be formed by engaging the build module with the processing chamber (e.g., using the load-lock mechanism). The load lock may be sealable. For example, the load lock may be sealed by engaging the build module with the processing chamber (e.g., directly, or indirectly). In some embodiments, the load lock may comprise one or more gas opening ports. At times, the load lock may comprise one or more gas transport channels. At times, the load lock may comprise one or more valves. A gas transport channel may comprise a valve. The opening and/or closing of a first valve of the 3D printing system may or may not be coordinated with the opening and/or closing of a second valve of the 3D printing system. The valve may be controlled automatically (e.g., by a controller) and/or manually. The load lock may comprise a gas entry opening port and a gas exit opening port. In some embodiments, a pressure below ambient pressure (e.g., of 1 atmosphere) is formed in the load lock. In some embodiments, a pressure exceeding ambient pressure (e.g., of 1 atmosphere) is formed in the load lock. At times, during the exchange of load lock atmosphere, a pressure below and/or above ambient pressure if formed in the load lock. At times, a pressure equal or substantially equal to ambient pressure is maintained (e.g., automatically, and/or manually) in the load lock. The load lock, building module, processing chamber, and/or enclosure may comprise a valve. The valve may comprise a pressure relief, pressure release, pressure safety, safety relief, pilot-operated relief, low pressure safety, vacuum pressure safety, low and vacuum pressure safety, pressure vacuum release, snap acting, or modulating valve. The valve may comply with the legal industry standards presiding the jurisdiction. The volume of the load lock may be smaller than the volume within the build module and/or processing chamber. The total volume within the load lock may be at most about 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 50%, or 80% of the total volume encompassed by the build module and/or processing chamber. The total volume within the load lock may be between any of the afore-mentioned percentage values (e.g., from about 0.1% to about 80%, from about 0.1% to about 5%, from about 5% to about 20%, from about 20% to about 50%, or from about 50% to about 80%). The percentage may be volume per volume percentage.

[0137] In some embodiments, the atmosphere of the build module and/or the processing chamber is fluidly connected to the atmosphere of the load lock. At times, conditioning the atmosphere of the load lock will condition the atmosphere of the build module and/or tire processing chamber that is fluidly connected to the load lock. The fluid connection may comprise gas flow. The fluid connection may be through a gas permeable seal and/or through a channel (e.g., a pipe). The channel may be a sealable channel (e.g., using a valve).

[0138] In some embodiments, the shutter of the build module engages with the shutter of the processing chamber. The engagement may be spatially controlled. For example, when the shutter of the build module is within a certain gap distance from the processing chamber shutter, the build module shutter engages with the processing chamber shutter. The gap distance may trigger an engagement mechanism. The gap trigger may be sufficient to allow sensing of at least one of the shutters. The engagement mechanism may comprise magnetic, electrostatic, electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, or physical force. The physical force may comprise manual force. Subsequent to the engagement, the single unit may transfer (e.g., relocate, or move) away from the energy beam. For example, the engagement may trigger the transferring (e.g., relocating) of the build module shutter and the processing chamber shutter as a single unit.

[0139] In some embodiments, removal of the shutter (e g., of the build module and/or processing chamber) depends on reaching a certain (e g., predetermined) level of at atmospheric characteristic comprising a gas content (e.g., relative gas content), gas pressure, oxygen level, humidity, argon level, or nitrogen level. For example, the certain level may be an equilibrium between an atmospheric characteristic in the build chamber and that atmospheric characteristic in the processing chamber.

[0140] In some embodiments, the 3D printing process initiates after merging of the build module with the processing chamber. At the beginning of the 3D printing process, the build platform may be at an elevated position. At the end of the 3D printing process, the build platform may be at a vertically reduced position (e.g., Fig. 2, 213). The building module may translate between three positions during a 3D printing run. The build module may enter the enclosure from a position away from the engagement position with the processing chamber (e g., Fig. 2, 201). The build module may then advance toward (e.g., 222 and 224) the processing chamber (e g., Fig. 2, 202), and engage with the processing chamber (e.g., as described herein). The layer dispensing mechanism and energy beam will translate and form the 3D object within the material bed (e.g., as described herein), while the platform gradually lowers its vertical position. Once the 3D object printing is complete (e.g., Fig. 2, 214), the build module may disengage from the processing chamber and translate (e.g., 223) away from the processing chamber engagement position (e.g., Fig. 2, 203). Disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber may include closing the processing chamber with its shutter, closing the build module with its shutter, or both closing the processing chamber shutter and closing the build module shutter. Disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber may include maintaining the processing chamber atmosphere to be separate from the enclosure atmosphere, maintaining the build module atmosphere to be separate from the enclosure atmosphere, or maintaining both the processing chamber atmosphere and the build atmosphere separate from the enclosure atmosphere. Disengagement of the build module from the processing chamber may include maintaining the processing chamber atmosphere to be separate from the ambient atmosphere, maintaining the build module atmosphere to be separate from the ambient atmosphere, or maintaining both the processing chamber atmosphere and the build atmosphere separate from the ambient atmosphere. The building platform that is disposed within the build module before engagement with the processing chamber, may be at its topmost position, bottom most position, or anywhere between its topmost position and bottom most position within the build module.

[0141] In some embodiments, the usage of sealable build modules, processing chamber, and/or unpacking chamber allows a small degree of operator intervention, low degree of operator exposure to the pretransformed material, and/or low-down time of the 3D printer. The 3D printing system may operate most of the time without an intermission. The 3D printing system may be utilized for 3D printing most of the time. Most of the time may be at least about 50%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% of the time. Most of the time may be between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50% to about 99%, from about 80% to about 99%, from about 90% to about 99%, or from about 95% to about 99%) of the time. The entire time includes the time during which the 3D printing system prints a 3D object, and time during which it does not print a 3D object. Most of the time may include operation during seven days a week and/or 24 hours during a day.

[0142] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system requires operation of maximum a single standard daily work shift. The 3D printing system may require operation by a human operator working at most of about 8 hours (h), 7h, 6h, 5h, 4h, 3h, 2h, Ih, or 0.5h a day. The 3D printing system may require operation by a human operator working between any of the afore-mentioned time frames (e.g., from about 8h to about 0.5h, from about 8h to about 4h, from about 6h to about 3h, from about 3h to about 0.5h, or from about 2h to about 0.5h a day).

[0143] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system requires operation of maximum a single standard work week shift. The 3D printing system may require operation by a human operator working at most of about 50h, 40 h, 30h, 20h, lOh, 5h, or Ih a week. The 3D printing system may require operation by a human operator working between any of the afore-mentioned time frames (e.g., from about 40h to about Ih, from about 40h to about 20h, from about 30h to about lOh, from about 20h to about Ih, or from about lOh to about Ih a week). A single operator may support during his daily and/or weekly shift at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 3D printers (e.g., 3D printing systems).

[0144] In some embodiments, the enclosure and/or processing chamber of the 3D printing system is opened to the ambient environment sparingly. In some embodiments, the enclosure and/or processing chamber of the 3D printing system may be opened by an operator (e g., human) sparingly. Sparing opening may be at most once in at most every 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weeks. The weeks may comprise weeks of standard operation of the 3D printer.

|0145| In some embodiments, the 3D printer has a capacity of 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 full prints in terms of pretransformed material (e.g., powder) reservoir capacity. The 3D printer may have the capacity to print a plurality of 3D objects in parallel. For example, the 3D printer may be able to print at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 3D objects in parallel.

[0146] In some embodiments, the printed 3D object is retrieved soon after terminating the last transformation operation of at least a portion of the material bed. Soon after terminating may be at most about 1 day, 12 hours, 6 hours, 3 hours, 2 hours, 1 hour, 30 minutes, 15 minutes, 5 minutes, 240 seconds (sec), 220 sec, 200 sec, 180 sec, 160 sec, 140 sec, 120 sec, 100 sec, 80 sec, 60 sec, 40 sec, 20 sec, 10 sec, 9 sec, 8 sec, 7 sec, 6 sec, 5 sec, 4 sec, 3 sec, 2 sec, or 1 sec. Soon after terminating may be between any of the afore-mentioned time values (e.g., from about Is to about Iday, from about Is to about Ihour, from about 30 minutes to about Iday, or from about 20s to about 240s).

[0147] In some embodiments, the 3D printer has a capacity of 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 full prints before requiring human intervention. Human intervention may be required for refdling the pre-transformed (e.g., powder) material, unloading the build modules, unpacking the 3D object, or any combination thereof. The 3D printer operator may condition the 3D printer at any time during operation of the 3D printing system (e.g., during the 3D printing process). Conditioning of the 3D printer may comprise refilling the pre-transformed material that is used by the 3D printer, replacing gas source, or replacing filters. The conditioning may be with or without interrupting the 3D printing system. For example, refilling and unloading from the 3D printer can be done at any time during the 3D printing process without interrupting the 3D printing process. Conditioning may comprise refreshing the 3D printer and/or the pre-transformed (e.g., recycled) material. Conditioning may comprise avoiding reactions (e.g., oxidation) of the material (e.g., powder) with agents (e g., water and/or oxygen). For example, a material (e g., liquid, or particulate material) may have chromium that oxidizes and forms chromium oxide. The oxidized material may have a high vapor pressure (e.g., low evaporation temperature). To avoid reactions, the material may be conditioned. Conditioning may comprise removal of reactive species (e.g., comprising oxy gen and/or water). Types of conditioning may include heating the material (e.g., before recycling or use), irradiating the material (e.g., ablation), flushing the material with an inert gas (e.g., argon). The flushing may be done in an inert atmosphere (e.g., within the processing chamber). The flushing may be done in an atmosphere that is (e.g., substantially) non-reactive with the material (e.g., liquid, or particulate material).

[0148] In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises at least one filter. The filter may be a ventilation filter. The ventilation filter may capture fine powder from the 3D printing system. The ventilation filter may capture spatter. The spatter may result from the 3D printing process. The ventilator may direct the spatter in a requested direction (e.g., by using positive or negative gas pressure). For example, the ventilator may use vacuum. For example, the ventilator may use gas blow.

[0149] At times, there is a time lapse (e.g., time delay) between the end of printing in a first material bed, and the beginning of printing in a second material bed. The time lapse between the end of printing in a first material bed, and the beginning of printing in a second material bed may be at most about 60minutes (min), 40min, 30min, 20min, 15min, lOmin, or 5 min. The time lapse between the end of printing in a first material bed, and the beginning of printing in a second material bed may be between any of the afore-mentioned times (e.g., from about 60min to abo 5min, from about 60min to about 30min, from about 30min to about 5min, from about 20min to about 5 min, from about 20min to about 10 min, or from about 15 min to about 5min). The speed during which the 3D printing process proceeds is disclosed in Patent Application serial number PCT/US 15/36802 that is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0150] In some embodiments, the 3D object is removed from the material bed after the completion of the 3D printing process. For example, the 3D object may be removed from the material bed when the transformed material that formed the 3D object hardens. For example, the 3D object may be removed from the material bed when the transformed material that formed the 3D object is no longer susceptible to deformation under standard handling operation (e.g., human and/or machine handling).

[0151] In some embodiments, the 3D object is removed from the build module inside or outside of the 3D printer (e.g., 3D printer enclosure, e.g., Fig. 2, 225). For example, the 3D object that is disposed within the material bed may be removed outside of the enclosure (e.g., by being enclosed in the build module, e.g., Fig. 2, 203). The 3D object may be removed from the build module to an unpacking station (also referred to herein as “unpacking system”). The unpacking station may be within the 3D printer enclosure, or outside of the 3D printer enclosure. The enclosure of the unpacking station may be different (e.g., separate) from the 3D printer enclosure.

[0152] In some embodiments, the atmosphere is exchanged in an enclosure. For example, the atmosphere is exchanged before the pre-transformed material is introduced into that enclosure (e.g., to reduce possibility of a reaction of the pre-transformed material with a reactive agent, and/or to allow recycling of the pre- transformed material). For example, the atmosphere is exchanged in an enclosure before the 3D printing is conducted in that enclosure (e.g., to reduce possibility of a reaction of the pre-transformed material or of a by-product, with a reactive agent). The by-product may comprise evaporated transformed material, or gas borne pre -transformed material. The by-product may comprise soot. The reactive agent may comprise oxygen or humidity. The atmospheric exchange may comprise sucking the atmosphere or purging the atmosphere. The suction or purging may utilize a pump (e.g., pressure or vacuum pump). The atmospheric exchange (e.g., purging) may comprise utilizing a pressurized gas source. The pressurized gas source may comprise a pressurized gas container (e.g., a gas -cylinder). The pressurized gas source may comprise a build module that encloses pressurized atmosphere that has a pressure greater than the pressure in the processing chamber. The pressurized build module may engage with a chamber. The chamber may comprise the processing chamber or the unpacking station. The engagement of the build module with the chamber may comprise merging their atmospheres to have a combined atmosphere pressure that is above ambient pressure. The pressurized gas source may comprise a build module that encloses pressurized atmosphere that has a pressure greater than the pressure in the chamber (e.g., unpacking station or processing chamber). The combined atmosphere may have a pressure greater than the ambient pressure by at least about 0.2 pounds per square inch (PSI), 0.25 PSI, 0.3 PSI, 0.35PSI, 0.4 PSI, 0.45 PSI, 0.5 PSI, 0.8 PSI, 1.0 PSI, 1.5 PSI, or 2.0 PSI above ambient pressure (e.g., of 14.7 PSI). The combined atmosphere may have a pressure greater than the ambient pressure by any value between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.2 PSI to about 2.0 PSI, from about 0.3 PSA to about 1.5 PSI, or from about 0.4 PSI to about 1.0 PSI above ambient pressure). The build module, processing chamber, and/or unpacking station may comprise an evacuator of the reactive agent (e.g., oxygen). The evacuator can be passive or active. The passive evacuator may comprise a scavenger for the reactive agent (e.g., a desiccating agent). The passive evacuator may comprise a material that (e.g., spontaneously) absorbs and/or reacts with the reactive agent (e.g., to scavenge it from the atmosphere). At least one controller may be coupled to the build module, processing chamber, and/or unpacking station and may control the amount of the reactive agent (e.g., to be below a certain threshold value).

[0153] In some embodiments, the build module is designed to maintain the 3D object within an atmosphere suitable for transport. The build module can comprise a boundary (e g., comprising one or more walls) that define an internal volume that is configured to store the 3D object in an internal atmosphere. During storage, the build module may be resting (e.g., kept in one location), or be in transit (e.g., from one location to another). The build module may be stored in ambient temperature (e.g., room temperature). The build module can comprise an opening within the boundary (e.g., within at least one of the walls) and that is designed to couple with the processing chamber and having a shape and size suitable for passing the 3D object therethrough. The build module can comprise the build module shutter that is configured to close the opening and form a seal between the internal atmosphere maintained within the build module and an ambient atmosphere outside of the build module. The seal and/or material of the build module may deter atmospheric exchange between the internal volume of tire build module and tire ambient atmosphere. The internal atmosphere may comprise a pressure different (e.g., lower or higher) than the one in the ambient pressure. For example, the internal atmosphere may comprise a pressure above ambient pressure. The internal volume of the build module may comprise a gas that is non-reactive with the pre-transformed material (e.g., before, after, and/or during the printing). The build module may comprise a gas that is non- reactive with a remainder of starting material that did not form the 3D object. The build module internal atmosphere can be (a) above ambient pressure, (b) inert, (c) different from the ambient atmosphere, (d) non- reactive with the pre-transformed material, remainder, and/or one or more 3D objects during the plurality of 3D printing cycles, (e) comprise a reactive agent below a threshold value, or (f) any combination thereof. The 3D object, remainder (e.g., including the pre-transformed material), and/or a new pre-transformed material may be stored in the build module for a period. For example, contents within the internal volume of the build module can be stored in any of atmospheres (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), or (f) supra for a period between processing operations, such as after forming the 3D object and before removing the 3D object from the build module (e.g., when the build module is coupled to the unpacking station). In some cases, the period may be at least about 0.5 day, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, or 10 days. The period may be any period between the afore-mentioned periods (e.g., from about 0.5 day to about 10 days, from about 0.5 day to about 4 days, or from about 2 days to about 7 days). The period may be limited by the reduction rate of the pressure in the build module, and/or the leakage rate of a relative agent (e.g., comprising oxygen or humidity) in the ambient environment into the build module. The number of reactive species (e g., reactive agent) may be controlled. The control may be to maintain a level below a threshold value. The threshold value may correspond to a detectable degree of a reaction product of the reactive agent with the pre-transformed material (or remainder) that is detectable. The threshold value may correspond to a detectable degree of a reaction product of the reactive agent with the pre -transformed material (or remainder) that causes at least one detectable defect in the material properties and/or structural properties of the pre-transformed material (or remainder). The reaction product may be generated on the surface of the pre-transformed material (e.g., on the surface of the particles of the particulate material). The reaction may occur following an engagement of the build module with the processing chamber. The reaction may occur during the release of the internal atmosphere of the build chamber into the processing chamber (e.g., followed by the 3D printing). The reaction may occur during the 3D printing. The reaction may cause defects in the material properties (e g , cracking) and/or structural properties (e g., warping) of the 3D object (e g., as described herein). The threshold may correspond to the threshold of the depleted or reduced level of gas disclosed herein. The level of the depleted or reduced level gas may correspond to the level of reactive agent. The depleted or reduced level gas may comprise oxygen or water. The threshold value may correspond to the reactive agent in the internal volume of the build module. The reactive agent may comprise water (e.g., humidity) or oxygen. The threshold value of oxygen may be at most about 5ppm, lOppm, 50ppm, lOOppm, 150ppm, 300ppm, or 500ppm. The threshold value of oxygen may be between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 5ppm to about 500ppm, from about 5ppm to about 300ppm, or from about 5 ppm to about 100 ppm). The build module may be configured to accommodate at least about 5 liters, 15 liters, 25 liters, or 30 liters of starting material. The platform may be configured to support at least about 5 liters, 15 liters, 25 liters, or 30 liters of starting material. The build module (in its closed configuration) may be configured to permit accumulation (in the internal volume of the build module) of water weight per liter of starting material for a prolonged period. The build module in its closed state can comprise a closed (e.g., sealed) shuter (e.g., lid). For example, the build module (in its closed configuration) may be configmed to permit accumulation (in the internal volume of the build module) of water weight of at most about 10 micrograms (pgr), 50 pgr, 100 pgr, 500 pgr, or 1000 pgr, per liter of starting material (e.g., powder), for a period of at least about 1 days, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days or 7 days. The build module in a closed state may be configmed to permit accumulation of water weight between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 10 pgr to about 1000 pgr, from about 10 pgr to about 500 pgr, or from about 100 pgr to about 1000 pgr), per liter of starting material, for a period of at least about 1 days, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days or 7 days. The build module (in its closed configmation) may be configured to limit an ingress (e.g., leakage or flow) of water into the internal volume of the build module. For example, the water may penetrate to the internal volume of the build module from an external water source (e.g., that contacts the build module (e.g., sealing area, seal material, build module shuter material and/or build module boundary material). For example, the water may penetrate to the internal volume of the build module from the ambient environment. The ingress of water into the internal volume of the build module may be at a rate of at most about 10 micrograms per day (pgr/d), 50pgr/d, 100 pgr/d, 500 pgr/d, or 1000 pgr/d. The ingress of water into the internal volume of the build module may be at a rate between any of the afore-mentioned rates (e.g., from about 10 pgr/d, to about lOOOpgr/d, from about 10 pgr/d, to about 500 pgr/d, or from about 10 pgr/d to about 100 pgr/d). Maintaining a reduced level of reactive agent (e.g., such as by keeping a positive pressure of inert gas in the build module for a prolonged amount of time) can allow the contents of the build module to be kept in any of the atmospheres (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), or (1) supra, for example, with minimal (e.g., without) exposure to an external environment (e.g., ambient air). In some case, the build module is transported using a transit system, which may comprise movement by car, train, boat, or aircraft. The build module can be robotically and/or manually transported. The transportation may comprise transit between cities, states, countries, continents, or global hemispheres. The build module may comprise and/or may be operatively coupled to at least one sensor for detecting certain qualities of the internal atmosphere within the internal volume (e.g.. pressure, temperatire, types of reactive agent, and/or amounts of reactive agent). The build module may comprise at least one controller that controls (e.g., regulates, maintains, and/or modulates) (i) a level of the reactive agent in the build module, (ii) a pressure level in the build module, (iii) a temperature in the build module, or (iv) any combination thereof. The build module may be configured to allow cooling or heating of the internal volume. A controller may control a temperature alteration of the build module (e.g., internal volume thereof), e g., to reach a threshold value, e.g., at a certain rate. The rate may be predetermined. The rate may comprise a temperature alteration function (e.g., linear or non-linear). For example, the build module (e.g., its internal volume) may be cooled to a handling temperature. For example, the build module may be heated to a temperature at which water parts (e.g., separates) from the starting material. For example, the build module may be heated to a pyrolytic temperature. The sensor and controller may be separate units or part of a single detector-controller unit. The build module may comprise at least one opening port that is configured to allow gas to pass to and/or from the internal volume. The opening port can be operatively coupled to a valve, a secondary pressurized gas source (e.g., gas cylinder or valve), or any combination thereof. The build module can comprise mechanisms and/or (e.g., structural) features that facilitate engagement with the processing chamber (e.g., through a load lock). The build module can comprise mechanisms and/or (e.g., structural) features that facilitate 3D printing (e.g., a vertically translatable platform). For example, the build module can comprise a lifting mechanism (e g., an actuator configured to vertically translate the platform) that is configured to move the 3D object within the internal volume. The lifting mechanism can be configured to move the 3D object in accordance with a vertical axis, as described herein.

[0154] In some embodiments, the unpacking station can engage with a plurality of build modules (e.g., simultaneously). The plurality of build modules may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 build modules. The unpacking station may comprise a plurality of reversibly closable openings (e.g., each of which comprises a reversibly removable shutter or lid). A plurality of reversibly closable build modules (e.g., each of which comprises a reversibly removable shutter or lid) may engage with, disengage with the unpacking station simultaneously or sequentially. A plurality of reversibly closable build may dock to the unpacking station at a given time. The docking can be directly or indirectly (e.g., through a load lock). At least one of the plurality of build modules can dock directly to the unpacking station. At least one of the plurality of build modules can dock indirectly to the unpacking station. The unpacking station may comprise a plurality of opening to facilitate simultaneous engagement of a plurality of build modules onto the unpacking station. The plurality of openings may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 openings. When the build module docks onto the unpacking station, the build module opening may be sealed by a load lock shutter (lid), and the corresponding unpacking station opening may be sealed by an unpacking station shutter. The gaseous volume that is entrapped between the build module shutter and the processing chamber shutter upon their mutual engagement, may be purged, evacuated, and/or exchanged. The gaseous volume may be part of a load lock mechanism. After engagement of the build module with the unpacking station (e.g., and exchange of the entrapped gas between their shutters), the build module shutter and the respective unpacking station shutter may be removed to allow merging of the build module atmosphere with the unpacking station atmosphere, travel of the 3D object between the unpacking station and the unpacking station, and/or travel of the base between the unpacking station and the build module.

[0155] The removal (e.g., by translation) of the build module shutter and the unpacking station shutter may be in the same direction or in different directions. The translation may be to any direction (e g., any of the six spatial directions). The direction may comprise a Cartesian direction. The direction may comprise a cardinal direction. The direction may be horizontal or vertical. The direction may be lateral. In some examples, the shutters may be removed (e.g., from a position where they shut the opening) separately. Before separation of the second build module from the unpacking station, the second build module opening may be shut (e.g., by a shutter), and/or the respective unpacking station opening may be shut (e.g., by a shutter). Such closure of these two openings prior to their disengagement may ensure that upon disengagement of the second build module from the unpacking station, the remainder (e.g., comprising the prc-transformcd material) and/or 3D object remain separate from the ambient atmosphere. Upon and/or after engagement of the build module and the unpacking station: (a) the build module shutter may be translated from the build module opening which the shutter reversibly closes, and/or (b) the unpacking station shutter may be translated from the unpacking station opening which the shutter reversibly closes. The translation of the two shutters may be simultaneous or sequential. The translation of the two shutters may be automatic or manual. The translation of the two shutters may be to the same or do different directions. The two shutters may engage with each other before and/or during the translation. The engagement may be using a mechanism comprising actuator, lever, shaft, clipper, or a suction cup. The engagement may include using a power generator that generates electrostatic, magnetic, hydraulic, or pneumatic force. The engagement may include using manual force and/or a robotic arm.

[0156] In some embodiments, the 3D object exchanges a base during the unpacking process in the unpacking station. In some embodiments, the 3D object may exchange a plurality of bases during unpacking (e.g., removal of the remainder). In some embodiments, plurality of bases may be present or coupled to an unpacking station (e g., simultaneously). The plurality of bases may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 bases. For example, the 3D object may be disposed adjacent to a first base that is in turn disposed in a first build module. The 3D object and the first base may be separated from each other in the unpacking station, (c.g., before, during, and/or after the removal of the remainder). The 3D object may be disposed on a second base after its separation from the first base (e.g., in the unpacking station or in the second build module). The second build module may comprise the second base with the 3D object upon separation from the unpacking station. At least one of the two bases (e.g., the first base) may be manipulated (e.g., removed, or displaced) using an actuator. For example, at least one of the two bases may be manipulated using a robotic arm and/or manually. For example, at least one of the two bases may be manipulated using a pick-and-place mechanism (e.g., comprising a shaft and/or an actuator). At least two of the plurality of bases (e.g., the first and the second base) may be manipulated by the same mechanism. At least two of the plurality of bases may be manipulated by their own separate respective mechanism.

10157] In some embodiments, when a build module is docked in the unpacking chamber, and the build module shutter and the unpacking chamber shutter are opened (e.g., removed), the vertical translation mechanism (e g., elevator) may elevate the 3D object with its respective material bed into the unpacking chamber. The unpacking chamber atmosphere may be controlled. The 3D object may be removed from the remainder of the material bed that did not transform to form the 3D object. The removal may be in a controlled (e.g., inert) atmosphere. The removal may be using a human or a machine. The removal may be fully automatic, partially automatic, or manual. The manual intervention may use a glove box. The machine may be situated in the unpacking chamber. The machine may be situated in the unpacking enclosure. The machine may be situated outside of the unpacking chamber. The machine may be situated outside of the unpacking enclosure. At least one side of the unpacking chamber may merge with at least one respective side of the unpacking station enclosure. At times, at least one side of the unpacking chamber may not merge with at least one respective side of the unpacking station enclosure. The mechanical intervention may comprise a motor, a tweezer, a hook, a swivel axis, a joint, a crane, or a spring. The mechanical intervention device may comprise a robot. The mechanical intervention device may be controlled by a controller (e.g., locally, or remotely). The remote control may use a remote input device. The remote control may use a remote console device (e.g., a joystick). The controller may use a gaming console device. The controller may use a home video game console, handheld game console, microconsole, a dedicated console, or any combination thereof. The local controller may be directly connected to the unpacking station (e.g., using one or more wires), or through a local network (e.g., as disclosed herein). The local controller may be stationary or mobile. The remote controller may connect to the unpacking station through a network that is not local. The remote controller may be stationary or mobile. The unpacking station (e.g., unpacking chamber) may comprise its own controller. The controller may control (e g., direct, monitor, and/or regulate) one or more apparatuses in the unpacking process, unpacking temperature, unpacking atmosphere. The apparatuses in the unpacking process may comprise a shutter, mechanical intervention device, pre-transformed material removal device (e.g., powder removal device).

[0158] The build module may comprise a first atmosphere, the processing chamber may comprise a second atmosphere, and the unpacking station may comprise a third atmosphere. At least two of the first, second, and third atmosphere may be detectibly the same. At least two of the first, second, and third atmosphere may differ. Differ may be in material (e.g., gaseous) composition and/or pressure. For example, the pressure in the build module may be higher than in the processing chamber (e.g., before their mutual engagement). For example, the pressure in the build module may be higher than in the unpacking station (e.g., before their mutual engagement). For example, the pressure in tire build module may be lower than in the unpacking station (e.g., before their mutual engagement). For example, the pressure in the build module may be lower than in the processing chamber (e.g., before their mutual engagement). Al least two of the first, second, and third atmosphere (e.g., all three atmospheres) may have a pressure above ambient pressure. The pressure above ambient pressure may deter reactive agents from the ambient atmosphere to penetrate into an enclosure having a positive atmospheric pressure (e.g., whether it is a build module, unpacking station, and/or processing chamber).

[0159] In some embodiments, the usage of reversibly closable (e.g., sealable) build modules may facilitate separation of the 3D object and/or any remainder of pre-transformed material that was not used to form the 3D object, from contacting at least one reactive agent in the ambient atmosphere. In some embodiments, the usage of reversibly closable (e.g., sealable) build modules may facilitate separation of a pre-transformed material from contacting at least one reactive agent in the ambient atmosphere.

[0160] In some embodiments, material metrology of the 3D object is performed. The material metrology may be performed before, after, and/or during unpacking of the 3D object from the material bed. At times, the material metrology may be performed before, after, and/or during the 3D printing. Material metrology may comprise measuring material morphology, particle size distribution, chemical composition, or material volumes. The material may be sieved before recycling and/or 3D printing. Sieving may comprise passing a (e.g., liquid or particulate) material through a sieve. Sieving may comprise gas classifying the (e.g., liquid or particulate) material. Gas classifying may comprise air-classifying. Gas classifying may include transporting a material (e.g., particulate material) through a channel. A first set of gas flow carrying particulate material of various types (e.g., cross sections, or weights) may flow horizontally from a first horizontal side of the channel to a second horizontal side of the channel. A second set of gas flow may flow vertically from a first vertical side of the channel to a second vertical side. The second vertical side of the channel may comprise material collectors. As the particulate material flows from the first horizontal direction to the second horizontal direction, the particulate material interacts with the vertical flow set, and gets deflected from their horizontal flow course to a vertical flow course. The particulate material may travel to the material collectors, depending on their size and/or weight, such that the lighter and smaller particles collect in the first collator, and the heaviest and largest particles collect at the last collector. Blowing of gas (e.g., air) may allow the classification of the particulate material according to the size and/or weight. The material may be conditioned before use (e g., re-use) within the enclosure. The material may be conditioned before, or after recycling.

[0161] In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is removed from the 3D object (e.g., within the unpacking chamber) by suction (e.g., vacuum), gas blow, mechanical removal, magnetic removal, or electrostatic removal. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use (e.g., manners of pre-transformed material removal), software, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US 15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, and US15/374,535, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

[0162] The pre-transformed material may comprise shaking the pre-transformed material (e.g., powder) from the 3D object. The shaking may comprise vibrating. Vibrating may comprise using a motor. Vibrating may comprise using a vibrator or a sonicator. The vibration may comprise ultrasound waves, sound waves, or mechanical force. For example, the 3D object may be disposed on a scaffold that vibrates. The ultrasonic waves may travel through the atmosphere of the unpacking chamber. The ultrasonic waves may travel through the material bed disposed in the unpacking chamber. The scaffold may be tilted at an angle that allows the pre-transformed material to separate from the 3D object. The scaffold may be rotated in a way that allows the pre-transformed material to separate from the 3D object (e.g., a centrifugal rotation). The scaffold may comprise a rough surface that can hold the 3D object (e.g., using friction). The scaffold may comprise hinges that prevent slippage of the 3D object (e.g., during the vibrating operation). The scaffold may comprise one or more holes. The scaffold may comprise a mesh. The one or more holes or mesh may allow the pre-transformed material to pass through, and prevent the 3D object from passing through (e.g., such that the 3D object is held on an opposite side of the mesh from the removed pre-transformed material). [0163] In some embodiments, the removal of the pre-transformed material comprises using a modular material removal mechanism. The material removal mechanism may be similar to the one used for leveling the exposed surface of the material bed. The material removal mechanism may be interchangeable between the 3D printing enclosure and the unpacking enclosure. For example, the material removal mechanism may be interchangeable between the processing chamber and the unpacking chamber. For example, the material removal mechanism may be used for at least one of leveling an exposed surface of a material bed, cleaning the processing chamber (e.g., from excess pre-transformed material), and removing the pre-transformed material from the 3D object. The material removal mechanism may remove the pre-transformed material and sieve it.

[0164] In some embodiments, the removed pre-transformed material (e.g., the remainder) is conditioned to be used in the 3D printing process. The remainder may be recycled and used in the 3D printing process. The unpacking station may further comprise a unit that allows conditioning of the pre-transformed material that was removed from the 3D object. Conditioning may comprise sieving of the pre-transformed material that was removed from the 3D object. Conditioning may be to allow recycling of the pre-transformed material and usage in a 3D printing cycle. Conditioning may be chemical conditioning (e.g., removal of oxide layer). Conditioning may be physical conditioning (e.g., such as sieving, e.g., removal of transformed material). [0165] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a recycling mechanism. The recycling mechanism may be housed in a modular chamber and form the recycling module. The recycling module may comprise a pump, or a (e.g., physical, and/or chemical) conditioning mechanism. Physical conditioning may comprise a sieve. The recycling module may be operatively coupled to at least one of (i) the processing chamber (e.g., to the layer dispensing mechanism such as to the material dispensing mechanism) and (ii) the unpacking station. For example, the same recycling module may be coupled to (i) the processing and (ii) the unpacking station. For example, a first recycling module may be coupled to the processing chamber and a second (e.g., different) recycling module may be coupled to the unpacking station. Coupled may be physically connected. The recycling module may be reversibly coupled. The recycling module can be extracted and/or exchanged from the (i) the processing and/or (ii) the unpacking station before, during, or after the 3D printing.

[0166] In some examples, while the build module (housing the 3D object) travels outside of the 3D printer enclosure (e.g., between the 3D printer enclosure and the unpacking station enclosure), the build module is sealed. Sealing may be sufficient to maintain the atmosphere within the build module. Sealing may be sufficient to prevent influence of the atmosphere outside of the build module to the atmosphere within the build module. Sealing may be sufficient to prevent exposure of the pre-transformed material (e.g., powder) to reactive atmosphere. Sealing may be sufficient to prevent leakage of the pre-transformed material from the build module. Sufficient may be in the time scale in which the build module transfers from one enclosure to another (e.g., through an ambient atmosphere). Sufficient may be to maintain 3D object surface requirements. Sufficient may be to maintain safety requirements prevailing in the jurisdiction.

|0167] In some embodiments, the unpacking station comprises an unpacking chamber. The unpacking chamber may be accessed from one or more directions (e.g., sides) by a person or machine located outside of the unpacking chamber. In some embodiments, in addition to the docking area, the unpacking chamber may be accessed from at least one, two, three, four, five, or six directions by a person or machine located outside of the unpacking chamber. In some embodiments, the 3D object may be removed from an opening (e.g., a door) of the unpacking chamber. The removal of the 3D object may be directly from the unpacking chamber (e g., not through usage of the build module).

[0168] In some embodiments, the material bed disposed within the unpacking chamber is translated (e g., moved). The movement can be effectuated by using a moving 3D plane. The 3D plane may be planar, curved, or assume an amorphous 3D shape. The 3D plane may be a strip, a blade, or a ledge. The 3D plane may comprise a curvature. The 3D plane may be curved. The 3D plane may be planar (e.g., flat). The 3D plane may have a shape of a curving scarf. The term “3D plane” is understood herein to be a generic (e.g., curved) 3D surface. For example, the 3D plane may be a curved 3D surface. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use (e.g., movement of the material bed by a 3D plane), software, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, and US15/374,535, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference. The 3D plane may form a shovel, or squeegee. The 3D plane may be from a rigid or flexible material. The 3D plane may move the material bed from the docking station to a different position in the unpacking chamber. For example, the different position may be on the scaffold. [0169] In some embodiments, the removal of the 3D object from the material bed is manual or automatic. The removal of the 3D object from the material bed may be at least partially automatic. Removal of the 3D object from the build module may comprise removal of the 3D object from the material bed. Removal of the 3D object from the build module may comprise removal of the remainders of the material bed that did not transform to form the 3D object, from the generated 3D object. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use (e.g., removal of (e.g., substantially) all the remainder of the material bed), systems, software, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US 15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, and US15/374,535, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference. The 3D plane may form a shovel, or squeegee.

[0170] In some cases, unused pre-transformed material (e.g., remainder) surrounds the 3D object in the material bed. The unused pre-transformed material can be (e.g., substantially) removed from the 3D object. Substantial removal may refer to pre-transformed material covering at most about 20%, 15%, 10%, 8%, 6%, 4%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.1% of tire surface of the 3D object after removal. Substantial removal may refer to removal of all the pre-transformed material that was disposed in the material bed and remained as pretransformed material at the end of the 3D printing process (e.g., the remainder), except for at most about 10%, 3%, 1%, 0.3%, or 0.1% of the weight of the remainder. Substantial removal may refer to removal of all the remainder except for at most about 50%, 10%, 3%, 1%, 0.3%, or 0.1% of the weight of the printed 3D object. The unused pre-transformed material (e.g., powder) can be removed to permit retrieval of the 3D object without digging through the pre-transformed material. For example, the unused pre-transformed material can be suctioned out of the material bed by one or more vacuum ports built adjacent to the powder bed. After the unused pre-transformed material is evacuated, the 3D object can be removed, and the unused pre-transformed material can be re-circulated to a reservoir for use in future 3D prints.

[0171] In some embodiments, the 3D object is generated on a mesh substrate. A solid platform (e.g., base or substrate) can be disposed underneath the mesh such that the powder stays confmed in the pretransformed material bed and the mesh holes are blocked. The blocking of the mesh holes may not allow a substantial amount of pre-transformed material to flow through. The mesh can be moved (e.g., vertically or at an angle) relative to the solid platform by pulling on one or more posts connected to either the mesh or the solid platform (e g., at the one or more edges of the mesh or of the base) such that the mesh becomes unblocked. The one or more posts can be removable from the one or more edges by a threaded connection. The mesh substrate can be lifted out of the material bed with the 3D object to retrieve the 3D object such that the mesh becomes unblocked. Alternatively, the solid platform can be tilted, horizontally moved such that the mesh becomes unblocked. When the mesh is unblocked, at least part of the powder flows from the mesh while the 3D object remains on the mesh.

[0172] In some embodiments, the 3D object is built on a construct comprising a first and a second mesh, such that at a first position the holes of the first mesh arc completely obstructed by the solid parts of the second mesh such that no powder material can flow through the two meshes at the first position, as both mesh holes become blocked. The first mesh, the second mesh, or both can be controllably moved (e.g., horizontally or in an angle) to a second position. In the second position, the holes of the first mesh and the holes of the second mesh are at least partially aligned such that the pre-transformed material disposed in the material bed can flow through to a position below the two meshes, leaving the exposed 3D object.

[0173] In some cases, a cooling gas is directed to the hardened material (e.g., 3D object) for cooling the hardened material during its retrieval. The mesh can be sized such that the unused pre-transformed material will sift through the mesh as the 3D object is exposed from the material bed. In some cases, the mesh can be attached to a pulley or other mechanical device such that the mesh can be moved (e.g., lifted) out of the material bed with the 3D part.

[0174] In some cases, the 3D object (e g., 3D part) is retrieved within at most about 12 hours (h), 6 h, 5 h, 4 h, 3 h, 2 h, 1 h, 30 minutes (min), 20 min, 10 min, 5 min, 1 min, 40 seconds (sec), 20 sec, 10 sec, 9 sec, 8 sec, 7 sec, 6 sec, 5 sec, 4 sec, 3 sec, 2 sec, or 1 sec after transforming of at least a portion of the last powder layer. The 3D object can be retrieved during a time period between any of the afore-mentioned time periods (e.g., from about 12h to about Isec, from about 12h to about 30min, from about Ih to about Isec, or from about 30min to about 40sec).

[0175] In some embodiments, the 3D object is retrieved at a pre-determined (e.g., handling) temperature. In some embodiments, the 3D object is retrieved at a handling (e.g., predetermined) temperature. The 3D object can be retrieved when the 3D object (composed of hardened (e.g., solidified) material) is at a handling temperature that is suitable to permit the removal of the 3D object from the material bed without substantial deformation. The handling temperature can be a temperature that is suitable for packaging of the 3D object. The handling temperature can be at most about 120 C, 100°C, 80°C, 60°C, 40°C, 30°C, 25°C, 20°C, 10°C, or 5°C. The handling temperature can be of any value between the afore-mentioned temperature values (e.g., from about 120°C to about 20°C, from about 40°C to about 5°C, or from about 40°C to about 10"C). The deformation may include geometric distortion. The deformation may include internal deformation. Internal may be within the 3D object or a portion thereof. The deformation may include a change in the material properties. The deformation may be disruptive (e.g., for the intended purpose of the 3D object). The deformation may comprise a geometric deformation. The deformation may comprise inconsistent material properties. The deformation may occur before, during, and/or after hardening of the transformed material. The deformation may comprise bending, warping, arching, curving, twisting, balling, cracking, bending, or dislocating. Deviation may comprise deviation from a structural dimension or from requested material characteristic.

[0176] In some embodiments, the generated 3D object requires very little or no further processing after its retrieval. Further processing may be post printing processing. Further processing may comprise trimming, as disclosed herein. Further processing may comprise polishing (e.g., sanding). In some cases, the generated 3D object can be retrieved and finalized without removal of transformed material and/or auxiliary support features.

[0177] In some embodiments, the generated 3D object is deviated from its intended dimensions. The 3D object (e.g., solidified material) that is generated can have an average deviation value from the intended dimensions (e g., of a requested 3D object) of at most about 0.5 microns (pun), 1 pm, 3 pm, 10 pm, 30 pun, 100 pun, 300 pm or less. The deviation can be any value between the afore-mentioned values. The average deviation can be from about 0.5 pm to about 300 pm, from about 10 pm to about 50 pm, from about 15 pm to about 85 pm, from about 5 p to about 45 pin. or from about 15 p to about 35 pm. The 3D object can have a deviation from the intended dimensions in a specific direction, according to the formula Dv +L/Kd _V , wherein Dv is a deviation value, L is the length of the 3D object in a specific direction, and Kd _V is a constant. Dv can have a value of at most about 300 pm, 200 m, 100 pm, 50 pm, 40 pm, 30 pm, 20 pm, 10 pm, 5 pm, 1 pm, or 0.5 pm. Dv can have a value of at least about 0.5 pm, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 20pm, 30 pm, 50 pm, 70pm, 100 pm, 300 pm or less. Dv can have any value between the afore -mentioned values. For example, Dv can have a value that is from about 0.5 pm to about 300 pm, from about 10 pm to about 50 pm, from about 15 pm to about 85 pm, from about 5 pm to about 45 pm, or from about 15 pm to about 35 pm. Kdv can have a value of at most about 3000, 2500, 2000, 1500, 1000, or 500. Kd _V can have a value of at least about 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, or 3000. K v can have any value between the afore-mentioned values. For example, Kdv can have a value that is from about 3000 to about 500, from about 1000 to about 2500, from about 500 to about 2000, from about 1000 to about 3000, or from about 1000 to about 2500. [0178] In some embodiments, the generated 3D object (i.e., the printed 3D object) does not require further processing following its generation by a method described herein. The printed 3D object may require reduced amount of processing after its generation by a method described herein. For example, the printed 3D object may not require removal of auxiliary support (e.g., since the printed 3D object was generated as a 3D object devoid of auxiliary support). The printed 3D object may not require smoothing, flattening, polishing, or leveling. The printed 3D object may not require further machining. In some examples, the printed 3D object may require one or more treatment operations following its generation (e.g., post generation treatment, or post printing treatment). The further treatment step(s) may comprise surface scraping, machining, polishing, grinding, blasting (e.g., sand blasting, bead blasting, shot blasting, or dry ice blasting), annealing, or chemical treatment. The further treatment may comprise physical or chemical treatment. The further treatment step(s) may comprise electrochemical treatment, ablating, polishing (e.g., electro polishing), pickling, grinding, honing, or lapping. In some examples, the printed 3D object may require a single operation (e.g., of sand blasting) following its formation. The printed 3D object may require an operation of sand blasting following its formation. Polishing may comprise electro polishing (e.g., electrochemical polishing or electrolytic polishing). The further treatment may comprise the use of abrasive(s). The blasting may comprise sand blasting or soda blasting. The chemical treatment may comprise use of an agent. The agent may comprise an acid, a base, or an organic compound. The further treatment step(s) may comprise adding at least one added layer (e.g., cover layer). The added layer may comprise lamination. The added layer may be of an organic or inorganic material. The added layer may comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, ceramic, or elemental carbon. The added layer may comprise at least one material that composes the printed 3D object. When the printed 3D object undergoes further treatment, the bottom most surface layer of the treated object may be different than the original bottom most surface layer that was formed by the 3D printing (e.g., the bottom skin layer).

[0179] In some embodiments, the methods described herein arc performed in the enclosure (e.g., container, processing chamber, and/or build module). One or more 3D objects can be formed in the enclosure (e.g., simultaneously, and/or sequentially). The enclosure may have a predetermined and/or controlled pressure. The enclosure may have a predetermined and/or controlled atmosphere. The control may be manual or via a control system. The atmosphere may comprise at least one gas. In some embodiments, dining the 3D printing, the material bed is at a constant pressure (e.g., without substantial pressure variations).

[0180] In some embodiments, the enclosure comprises ambient pressure (e g., 1 atmosphere), negative pressure (i.e., vacuum) or positive pressure. The enclosure may comprise the processing chamber. Different portions of the enclosure may have different atmospheres. The different atmospheres may comprise different gas compositions. The different atmospheres may comprise different atmosphere temperatures. The different atmospheres may comprise ambient pressure (e.g., 1 atmosphere), negative pressure (i.e., vacuum) or positive pressure. The different portions of the enclosure may comprise the processing chamber, build module, or enclosure volume excluding the processing chamber and/or build module. The vacuum may comprise pressure below 1 bar, or below 1 atmosphere. The positively pressurized environment may comprise pressure above 1 bar or above 1 atmosphere. In some examples, the pressure in the chamber is at least about lOTorr, 100 Torr, 150Torr, 200 Torr, 300 Torr, or 400 Torr, above atmospheric pressure (e.g., above 760 Torr). In some examples, the pressure in the chamber is at least about 10 Torr, 100 Torr, 150 Torr, 200 Torr, 300 Torr, 400 Torr, 500 Torr, or 600 Torr, above atmospheric pressure (e.g., above 760 Torr). The pressure in the chamber can be al a range between any of the afore-mentioned pressure values above atmospheric pressure, e.g., from about 10 Torr to about 600 Torr, from about 100 Torr to about 200 Torr, the values representing a pressure difference above atmospheric pressure (e.g., above 760 Torr). The pressure in the chamber is at least about 20 Kilo Pascal (KPa), 18 KPa, 16 KPa, 14 KPa, 12 KPa, lOKPa, or 5KPa above atmospheric pressure, e.g., above 101 KPa. The pressure in the chamber can be at a range between any of the afore-mentioned pressure values above atmospheric pressure, e.g., from about 5 KPa to about 20KPa, the values representing a pressure difference above atmospheric pressure, e.g., above 101 KPa. The pressure can be measured by a pressure gauge. The pressure can be measured at ambient temperature (e.g., room temperature (R.T.)). In some cases, the chamber pressure can be standard atmospheric pressure. The pressure may be measured at an ambient temperature (e.g., room temperature such as about 20°C, or about 25°C). In some embodiments, the interior of the 3D printing system (e.g., the processing chamber, build module, ancillary chamber, gas conveyance system, material conveyance system and/or material recycling system) have a pressure above ambient pressure outside of the 3D printing system. [0181] In some embodiments, the enclosure includes an atmosphere. The enclosure may comprise a processing chamber, an ancillary chamber, a build module, or any other enclosure disclosed herein, e.g., in relation to the three-dimensional printing system. The enclosure may comprise a (e.g., substantially) inert atmosphere. The atmosphere in the enclosure may be (e.g., substantially) depleted by one or more gases present in the ambient atmosphere. The atmosphere in the enclosure may include a reduced level of one or more gases relative to the ambient atmosphere. For example, the atmosphere may be substantially depleted, or have reduced levels of water (i.e., humidity), oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, or any combination thereof The level of the depleted or reduced level gas may be at most about 0.1 parts per million (ppm), 1 ppm, 3 ppm, 10 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, 3000 ppm, or 5000 ppm. The level of the depleted or reduced level gas may be at least about 1 ppm, 10 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, or 5000 ppm (v/v). The level of the oxygen gas may be at most about 1 ppm, 10 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 500 ppm, 1000 ppm, or 2000 ppm (v/v). The level of the water vapor may be at most about 1 ppm, 10 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm, 500 ppm, 700 ppm, 800 ppm, 900 ppm, 1000 ppm, or 3000 ppm. The level of the gas (e.g., depleted or reduced level gas, oxygen, or water) may be between any of the aforementioned levels of gas (e g., from about 1 ppm to about 500ppm, from about 1 Oppm to about 1 OOppm, from about 500ppm to about 5000ppm). The reduced level of gas may be compared to the level of gas in the ambient environment. The gas may be a reactive agent. The atmosphere may comprise air. The atmosphere may be inert. The atmosphere may be non-reactive, e.g., to a detectable level. The atmosphere in the enclosure (e.g., processing chamber) may have reduced reactivity (e.g., be non-reactive) as compared to the ambient atmosphere external to the processing chamber and/or external to the printing system. The atmosphere may have reduced reactivity with the material (e g., the pre-transformed material deposited in the layer of material (e.g., powder) or with the material comprising the 3D object), which reduced reactivity is compared to the reactivity of the ambient atmosphere. The atmosphere may hinder (e.g., prevent) oxidation of the generated 3D object, e.g., as compared to the oxidation by an ambient atmosphere external to the 3D printer and/or processing chamber. The atmosphere may hinder (e.g., prevent) oxidation of the pre-transformed material within the layer of pre-transformed material before its transformation, during its transformation, after its transformation, before its hardening, after its hardening, or any combination thereof. The atmosphere may comprise an inert gas. For example, the atmosphere may comprise argon or nitrogen gas. The atmosphere may comprise a Nobel gas. The atmosphere can comprise a gas selected from the group consisting of argon, nitrogen, helium, neon, krypton, xenon, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. The atmosphere may comprise hydrogen gas. The atmosphere may comprise a safe amount of hydrogen gas. The atmosphere may comprise a v/v percent of hydrogen gas of at least about 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%, at ambient pressure (e.g., and ambient temperature). The atmosphere may comprise a v/v percent of hydrogen gas of at most about 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, or 5%, at ambient pressure (e.g., and ambient temperature). The atmosphere may comprise any percent of hydrogen between the aforementioned percentages of hydrogen gas. The atmosphere may comprise a v/v hydrogen gas percent that is at least able to react with the material (e.g., at ambient temperature and/or at ambient pressure), and at most adhere to the prevalent work-safety standards in the jurisdiction (e g., hydrogen codes and standards). The material may be the material within the layer of pre-transformed material (e g., powder), the transformed material, the hardened material, or the material within the 3D object. Ambient refers to a condition to which people are generally accustomed. For example, ambient pressure may be about one (1) atmosphere. Ambient temperature may be a typical temperature to which humans are generally accustomed. For example, from about 15°C to about 30°C, from about -30°C to about 60°C, from about -20°C to about 50°C, from 16°C to about 26°C, from about 20°C to about 25°C. “Room temperature” may be measured in a confined or in a non-confined space. For example, “room temperature” can be measured in a room, an office, a factory, a vehicle, a container, or outdoors. The vehicle may be a car, a truck, a bus, an airplane, a space shuttle, a spaceship, a ship, a boat, or any other vehicle. The concentration of oxygen and/or humidity in the enclosure (e.g., chamber) can be minimized, e.g., below a predetermined threshold value. For example, the gas composition of the chamber can contain a level of oxy gen that is at most about 4000 parts per million (ppm), 3000ppm, 2000 ppm, 1500ppm, lOOOppm, 500ppm, 400ppm, lOOppm, 50ppm, lOppm, or 5ppm. The gas composition of the chamber can contain an oxygen level between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 4000ppm to about 5ppm, from about 2000 ppm to about 500ppm, from about 1500ppm to about 500ppm, or from 500ppm to about 50ppm). For example, the gas composition of the chamber can contain a level of humidity that correspond to a dew point of at most about -10 °C, -15 °C, -20 °C, -25 °C, -30 °C, -35 °C, -40 °C, -50 °C, -60 °C, or -70 °C. The gas composition of the chamber can contain a level of humidity that correspond to a dew point of between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about -70oC to about -10 °C, -60 °C to about -10 °C or from about -30 °C to about -20 °C. The gas composition may be measures by one or more sensors, e.g., an oxygen and/or humidity sensor. In some cases, the chamber can be opened at or after printing the 3D object. When the processing chamber is opened, ambient air containing oxygen and/or humidity can enter the chamber. Exposure of one or more components inside of the chamber to air can be reduced by, for example, flowing an inert gas while the chamber is open (e.g., to prevent entry of ambient air), or by flowing a heavy gas (e g., argon) that rests on the surface of the powder bed. Room temperature may represent the small range of temperatures at which the atmosphere feels neither hot nor cold, approximately 24 °C. it may denote 20 °C, 25 °C, or any value from about 20 °C to about 25 °C.

[0182] In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is deposited in an enclosure (e.g., a container). Fig. 1 shows an example of a container. The container can contain the pre-transformed material to form a material bed (e.g., may contain the pre-transformed material without spillage; Fig. 1, 104). The material bed may have a horizontal cross sectional shape, which cross sectional shape may be a geometrical shape (e.g., any geometric shape described herein, for example, triangle, rectangle (e.g., square), ellipse (e.g., circle), or any other polygon). The material may be placed in, or inserted to the container. The material may be deposited in, pushed to, sucked into, or lifted to the container. The material may be layered (e.g., spread) in the container. The container may comprise a substrate (e.g., Fig. 1, 109). The substrate may be situated adjacent to the bottom of the container (e.g., Fig. 1, 111). Bottom may be relative to the gravitational field, or relative to the position of the footprint of the energy beam (e.g., Fig. 1, 101) on the layer of pretransformed material as part of a material bed. The footprint of the energy beam may follow a Gaussian bell shape. In some embodiments, the footprint of the energy beam does not follow a Gaussian bell shape. The container may comprise a platform comprising a base (e g., Fig. 1, 102). The platform may comprise a substrate. The base may reside adjacent to the substrate. The pre-transformed material may be layered adjacent to a side of the container (e.g., on the bottom of the container). The pre-transformed material may be layered adjacent to the substrate and/or adjacent to the base. Adjacent to may be above. Adjacent to may be directly above, or directly on. The substrate may have one or more seals (e.g., 103) that enclose the material in a selected area within the container (e.g., Fig. 1, 111). The one or more seals may be flexible or non-flexible. The one or more seals may comprise a polymer or a resin. The one or more seals may comprise a round edge or a flat edge. The one or more seals may be bendable or non-bcndablc. The seals may be stiff. The container may comprise the base. The base may be situated within the container. The container may comprise the platform, which may be situated within tire container. Tire enclosure, container, processing chamber, and/or building module may comprise an optical window. An example of an optical window can be seen in Fig. 1, 115. The optical window may allow the energy beam (e.g., 101) to pass through without (e.g., substantial) energetic loss. For example, the energy beam Fig. 3, 307 is (e.g., substantially) equal to the energy beam 303 that traveled through the optical window 304. A ventilator may prevent spatter from accumulating on the surface optical window that is disposed within the enclosure (e.g., within the processing chamber) during the 3D printing. An opening of the ventilator may be situated within the enclosure (e.g., comprising atmosphere 126).

[0183] In some embodiments, the pre-transformed material is deposited in the enclosure by a material dispensing mechanism (e.g., Fig. 1, 116, 117 and 118) to form a layer of pre-transformed material within the enclosure. The deposited material may be leveled by a leveling operation. The leveling operation may comprise using a material (e.g., powder) removal mechanism that does not contact the exposed surface of the material bed (e.g., Fig. 1, 118). The leveling operation may comprise using a leveling mechanism that contacts the exposed surface of the material bed (e.g., Fig. 1, 117). The material (e.g., powder) dispensing mechanism may comprise one or more dispensers (e.g., Fig. 1, 116). The material dispensing system may comprise at least one material (e.g., bulk) reservoir. The material may be deposited by a layer dispensing mechanism (e.g., recoater). The layer dispensing mechanism may level the dispensed material without contacting the material bed (e.g., the top surface of the powder bed). Examples of 3D printing systems, their components (e.g., layer dispensing mechanism), associated methods of use, software, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, and US15/374,535, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the layer dispensing mechanism includes components comprising a material dispensing mechanism, material leveling mechanism, material removal mechanism, or any combination or permutation thereof.

[0184| In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a platform. The platform (also herein, “printing platform” or “building platform”) may be disposed in the enclosure (e.g., in the build module and/or processing chamber). The platform may comprise a substrate or a base. The substrate and/or the base may be removable or non-removable. The building platform may be (e.g., substantially) horizontal, (e.g., substantially) planar, or non-planar. The platform may have a surface that points towards the deposited pretransformed material (e.g., powder material), which at times may point towards the top of the enclosure (e g., away from the center of gravity). The platform may have a surface that points away from the deposited pre-transformed material (e g., towards the center of gravity), which at times may point towards the bottom of the container. The platform may have a surface that is (e.g., substantially) flat and/or planar. The platform may have a surface that is not flat and/or not planar. The platform may have a surface that comprises protrusions or indentations. The platform may have a surface that comprises embossing. The platform may have a surface that comprises supporting features (e.g., auxiliary support). The platform may have a surface that comprises a mold. The platform may have a surface that comprises a wave formation. The surface may point towards the layer of pre-transformed material within the material bed. The wave may have an amplitude (e.g., vertical amplitude or at an angle). The platform (e.g., base) may comprise a mesh through which the pre-transformed material (e.g., the remainder) may flow through. The platform may comprise a motor. The platform (e.g., substrate and/or base) may be fastened to the container. The platform (or any of its components) may be transportable. The transportation of the platform may be controlled and/or regulated by a controller (e.g., control system). The platform may be transportable horizontally, vertically, or at an angle (e.g., planar or compound).

[0185] In some embodiments, the platform comprises an engagement mechanism. The engagement mechanism may facilitate engagement and/or dis-engagement of a base (e g., Fig. 1, 102) to a substrate (e.g., Fig. 1, 109). The substrate may comprise a (e.g., horizontal) cross section having a geometrical shape. The geometrical shape can be any geometrical shape described herein, e.g., a polygon, triangle, ellipse (e.g., circle), or rectangle. The substrate may comprise a 3D shape. The 3D shape may form a protrusion or intrusion from the average plane of an exposed surface of the substrate. The 3D shape may comprise a cuboid (e.g., cube), or a tetrahedron. The substrate may comprise a fastener. The fastener can comprise an interlocking mechanism. The interlocking mechanism may be any interlocking mechanism described herein. For example, the fastener can comprise a clamping mechanism. The fastener may facilitate engagement and/or locking of the substrate to the. The fastener may brace, band, clamp, or clasp the base to the substrate (e.g., as part of the platform). The fastener may hold the base together with the substrate. The fastener may comprise a clamping station. The fastener may comprise a docking station. The substrate may (e g., optionally) include an aligner. The substrate may comprise a stopper. The stopper may serve also as the aligner. The aligner may also serve as the stopper. The stopper and the aligner may be the same component. The stopper and the aligner may be separate components. At times, the substrate may be operatively (e.g., physically) coupled to an elevator mechanism (e.g., one or more shafts). The elevator mechanism may comprise the platform (e.g., including the substrate and the base). The platform may have a (e.g., horizontal) cross section comprising a geometric shape (e.g., any geometric shape described herein). The base may be reversibly coupled to the substrate. At times, the base may be an integral portion of the substrate. At times, the base and the substrate may have an identical shape. At times, the substrate and the base may have a different shape. The substrate and/or base may be translatable. For example, the substrate and/or base may translate in a translation direction of the elevation mechanism (e.g., comprising an actuator that facilitates vertical movement of the platform).

[0186] In some embodiments, the substrate and the base are separate and are brought together to form the platform. For example, the substrate may be stationary, and the base may be mobile The base may translate to engage with the substrate. The engagement of the base with the substrate may be reversible, manual, automatic, and/or controlled. The engagement and/or disengagement of the base with the substrate may be before and/or after the 3D printing. The control may be manual and/or automatic (e.g., using a controller). On translation, the aligner(s) may constrain (e.g., facilitate alignment) of the movement of the base with respect to the substrate (e.g., by using a rail, protrusion, and/or intrusion). The aligner may be a guide. On translation, the stopper may constrain the movement of the base with respect to the substrate (e.g., by using a kinematic stopper, a clamping mechanism, a kinematic coupling, and/or a combination thereof). The substrate may comprise one or more stoppers and/or aligners. The stopper may facilitate alignment, position and/or affixing of the base (e.g., during an engaging operation) to the substrate.

[0187] In some embodiments, the base is translatable (e.g., to engage (and/or dis-engage) with the substrate and/or stopper). The base may be reversibly and/or controllab ly connected to the substrate. The base may comprise a geometrical shape (e.g., any geometric shape described herein, for example, triangle, rectangle, ellipse, or polygon). The base may comprise the engagement mechanism. The engagement mechanism may be manual and/or automatic. The engagement mechanism may be controlled. At least a portion of the engagement (and/or dis-engagement) of the base with the substrate may be at an angle (e.g., planar or compound) relative to the bottom surface of the platform. The engagement mechanism may use a device that facilitates the engagement (e.g., an actuator). For example, the engagement mechanism may comprise a robotic arm, a crane, conveyor (e.g., conveyor belt), rotating screw, or a moving surface (e.g., moving base). The engagement and/or disengagement may be manual. The engagement mechanism may comprise a portion of an aligner (e.g., comprising a rail, a bar, a lever, a sensor, a mark, an actuator, or a track) operatively coupled to the substrate (or a part of the substrate) that engages with the base. The engagement mechanism may comprise a portion of an aligner operatively coupled to the base (or a part of the base) that engages with the substrate. The aligner may be disposed on the base and/or on the substrate. In some embodiments, a first portion of the aligner may be coupled to (or be part of) the base, and a complementary portion of the aligner may be coupled to (or be part of) the substrate. The engagement mechanism may comprise a mechanism that can move a platform component (e.g., move tire base). The movement may be controlled (e.g., manually, and/or automatically, e.g., using a controller). The movement may include using (i) a control signal and/or (ii) a source of energy (e.g., manual power, electricity, hydraulic pressure, gas pressure, electrostatic force, or magnetic force). The gas pressure may be positive and/or negative as compared to the ambient pressure. Optionally, the movement may comprise using a sensor, or an aligner. The engagement mechanism may use electricity, pneumatic pressure, hydraulic pressure, magnetic power, electrostatic power, human power, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the (e.g., entire) top surface of the base may be available for use during the 3D printing (e.g., to build the 3D object). The top surface of the base may be (e.g., entirely) free of a feature (e.g., clamping mechanism, or a bolt) that facilitates engagement of the to the substrate.

[0188] In some embodiments, the engagement mechanism comprises a connector. The connector may be located at, or within a lower portion of the base. The connector may be located adjacent to a periphery (e.g., circumference, boundary) of a portion of the base. The connector may comprise one or more fixtures. The connector fixture(s) and the stopper fixture(s) may constrain each other on mutual engagement. The engagement of the complementary fixtures may trigger a signal. The signal may be detectable and/or identifiable. For example, the signal may comprise an electronic, pneumatic, sound, light, or magnetic signal. The signal may comprise an assertion of the engagement of the base with the substrate. The base may be circular in shape. The base may comprise a connector including one or more fixtures. The connector may be located adjacent to a periphery (e.g., on a portion of the circumference) of the base portion. The base may be engaged to a substrate. The substrate may comprise one or more fixtures. In some examples, the fixture comprises a charge. The charge may be magnetic or electric. For example, the charge on a base fixture may be of one type, and the complementary fixture on the substrate and/or stopper may be of an opposing change to the one type. For example, the charge on a base fixture may be positive electric charge, and die complementary fixture on the substrate and/or stopper may be negative electric charge. In some examples, the fixtures may be devoid of indentation and/or protrusion. In some examples, the fixtures may be devoid of a charge. In some examples, the fixtures may include (i) an indentation and/or protrusion, (ii) a charge (e.g., magnetic, and/or electric), (iii) or any combination thereof. The fixture of the substrate and/or stopper and the fixture of the base may be complementary. When engaged, the fixtures may (e g., accurately) fit into each other. When engaged, the fixtures facilitate (e g., accurate) positioning of the base relative to the substrate, for example, by constraining the relative movement of the base to the substrate. [0189] In some embodiments, the engagement of the base with the substrate comprises a complementary engagement. The engagement may comprise a dove-tail engagement. The base may be reversibly engaged with the substrate. The base may be accurately engaged with the substrate. The base may repeatedly (e.g., before or after 3D printing) be engaged with the substrate. The base may be controllably engaged (e.g., automatic, and/or manual) with the substrate. The engagement may comprise fitting together. The engagement can comprise at least one protrusion that fits into at least one complementary indentation respectively. For example, the stopper (e.g., located on or coupled to the substrate) may comprise a first fixture and the connector (e.g., located on the base) may comprise a second fixture that is complementary to the first fixture, which fit (e.g., couples) into each other on engagement of the base with the substrate. The fitting may be a kinematic coupling. The fitting into each other on engagement may prevent one or more degrees of freedom. For example, a horizontal and/or vertical degree of freedom of the base relative to the substrate. A fixture within the kinematic coupling may comprise a pentagonal pyramid. The fixture may be an indentation of the 3D shape (e.g., a V-groove is an indentation of a cone). A portion of the ellipse may be a hemisphere. For example, the engagement (e.g., coupling) of the base with the substrate may comprise engagement of one or more (e.g., three) radial v-grooves with one or more complementary hemispheres. One or more may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. The engagement of the complementary fixtures may comprise at least one (e.g., two, or three) contact point. The contact point may constrain the degree(s) of freedom of the stage. The degree(s) of freedom may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 degrees of freedom. The degree(s) of freedom may comprise any value between the afore-mentioned degrees of freedom (e.g., from 1 to 6, from 2 to 6, or from 4 to 6). In some examples, the complementary fixtures may not precisely fit into each other. For example, the complementary fixtures may engage with each other, and not precisely fit into each other. In some examples, the complementary fixtures may engage with each other, and restrain at least one degree of freedom of at least one of the stage and the stopper. For example, the first fixture may be a V-groove and its complementary fixture may be a hemisphere For example, the first fixture may be a tetrahedral dent, and its complementary fixture may be a hemisphere. For example, the first fixture may be a rectangular depression, and its complementary fixture may be a hemisphere. The kinematic coupling may comprise Kelvin or Maxwell coupling.

[0190] In some embodiments, the base and substrate may engage before, after, and/or during the 3D printing (e.g., before the material bed has been deposited, or after the material bed has been removed). The base and substrate may be dis-engaged before, after, and/or during the 3D printing (e.g., before the material bed has been deposited, or after the material bed has been removed). The engagement and/or disengagement may be controlled before, after, and/or during the 3D printing (e.g., before the material bed has been deposited, or after the material bed has been removed). The control may be manual and/or automatic (e.g., using a controller). [0191] In some embodiments, the base may reversibly couple to the substrate. The coupling may be automatic, the coupling may facilitate the (e.g., entire) top surface of the base plate to be available for 3D printing). The base may comprise an upper portion. The upper and lower segments of the base may be parts of a single object (e g., a single block of material). The separation of the upper and lower portions of the base may be for illustrative purposes. In some embodiments, the upper portion and the lower portions of the base are two separate portions that are joined together (e.g., by welding or fastening). The base may be inserted in a lateral direction to engage with the substrate. The base may be inserted in a lateral and/or angular direction to engage with the substrate. The lower portion of the base may comprise a fixture. The substrate may comprise a stopper that includes a fixture that is complementary to the base fixture. The stopper fixture and the base fixture may fit (e.g., to prevent one or more degrees of freedom of the base and/or substrate) when engaged. A cavity may be formed between the upper portion of the base and the substrate. The cavity may accommodate at least one component. The component may be a sensor or a temperature regulator (e.g., heater and/or cooler). The temperature regulator may (e.g., uniformly) heat the upper portion of the base. The 3D object may be built above (e.g., on) the upper portion of the base. The engagement may be precise. Precise may include mutually accurate alignment of the fixtures. Precise may include aligned and/or cohesive engagement of the base and substrate/stopper fixtures. The fastener (e.g., clamping mechanism) may comprise a manual fastener (e.g., a rotating screw). The screw may be inserted (e.g., manually, and/or automatically) to lock the engagement of the base to the substrate. The fastener may not disturb (e.g., touch or take a portion from) the exposed (e.g., upper) surface of the base. The fastener may be located at an angle with respect to the average lower surface of the substrate. The fastener may be inserted through a portion of the base, and a portion of the substrate. The fastener may optionally penetrate through the cavity. In some embodiments, the clamping mechanism may be adjacent to the fastener.

[0192] In some embodiments, the fastener comprises a clamping mechanism. The fastener may constrain (e.g., clamp, lock, tighten, hold, bind, clasp, or grip) the base to the substrate, when engaged. The fastener may release (e.g., unconstrained, free, unlock, or loosen) the base from the substrate and/or stopper, when dis-engaged. The fastener may be automatic and/or manual. A manual fastener may comprise human intervention. For example, a manual fastening may comprise a screw, hinge, brace, strap, or lever clamp. The fastener may be a mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, vacuum, magnetic, or an electrostatic clamp. The fastener may be inserted (e.g., rotated), through a portion of the engaged base and substrate to constrain their mutual engagement. The fastener may be inserted in a horizontal manner, and/or at an angle. The fastener may be inserted through at least a lower portion of the engaged base and at least an upper portion of the substrate. The clamping mechanism may not be inserted through the top surface of the base. An automatic fastening may not require human intervention. The automatic fastening may include a mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, magnetic, or electrostatic component. The fastening may include a kinematic coupling. The fastening may comprise rotating a base and/or substrate. The fastening may include a click mechanism (e.g., to engage/dis-engage). The fastener may facilitate aligning, positioning, and/or affixing tire base and tire substrate, when engaged (e.g., during, before and/or after 3D printing). The fastener may be operatively coupled to at least one controller. The controller may receive a signal from the engagement mechanism (e.g., fixture coupling). The controller may receive a signal on engagement of the base to the substrate/stopper. The controller may automatically fasten (e.g., clamp) the base to the substrate/stopper (e.g., in response to the engagement). The controller may receive a signal of print completion, removal of a 3D object, and/or removal of the material bed. The controller may automatically release the fastener (e g., in response to the completion of print or in response to the removal of the 3D object). The controller may receive an indication (e.g., a click, movement of a base, or movement of a substrate/stopper) to engage and/or dis-engage the base from the substrate/stopper/aligner. The controller may trigger an automatic lock and/or release of the base to the substrate/stopper. The controller may include a processor. The controller may be a controller described herein.

[0193] In some embodiments, the fastening between the base and the substrate is automatic. The fastening mechanism (e g., fastener) may comprise a plurality of parts. A first part of the fastening mechanism may be located on an upper portion of the base. At times, the first portion of the fastening mechanism may be located on a portion adjacent (e.g., laterally) to the base. A second portion of the fastening mechanism may be located on an upper portion of the substrate (e.g., comprising the exposed surface of die substrate). The first and second portion of the fastening mechanism may not be aligned with each other prior to coupling of the substrate and the base. The first and second portion of the fastening mechanism may be in the process of aligning with each other, when the base and the substrate are in the process of engaging with each other (e.g., during the movement of the base). The first and the second portion of the fastening mechanism may be aligned with each other, when the base and the substrate are engaged. The fastening mechanism may comprise a controller. The controller may be operatively coupled to a sensor. The sensor may sense an engagement of the base with the substrate. The controller may receive an indication (e.g., signal, a rotation of a portion of the fastening mechanism), from the sensor when the base engages and/or couples with the substrate. The controller may (e.g., optionally) trigger an alignment operation of the first and second portion of the clamping mechanism. The controller may sense an alignment of the first and second portions of the fastening mechanism. The controller may trigger a fastening operation of the fastening mechanism on/after sensing alignment. The alignment may be automatic and/or manual. The fastening operation may require human intervention. The clamping operation may be automatic (e.g., self-aligning, self-locking, controller directed aligning, controller directed locking, and/or click to lock mechanism). The fastening operation may be directed, modulated, and/or monitored by a controller. The fastening operation may include a kinematic coupling. The fastening operation may include lowering an upper portion of the fastening mechanism (e.g., rotating a screw). The fastening operation may include fitting a third portion of the fastening mechanism into a fourth portion of the fastening mechanism. For example, fitting a bolt into a nut. Optionally, the fastening operation may include rotating the fixture. The rotating portion may fasten the third and fourth portions with each other (e.g., after alignment of the first and second portions of the fastening mechanism). The third portion may be the same or different from the first portion. The second portion may be the same or different from the fourth portion. For example, the first portion may be a sensor and the second portion may be a detector. For example, the first portion may be a bolt and the second portion may be a nut.

[0194] In some embodiments, the platfonn comprises a cavity. The platfonn may be formed by coupling of the base with the substrate. The cavity may be located within a lower portion of the base. The cavity may be formed between a portion of the base and a portion of the substrate. The cavity may be located below the base. Below may be towards the center of gravity, or towards the shaft(s). The cavity may be located betw een a portion of the substrate and a portion of the elevator mechanism (e.g., below a platform). A component (e.g., sensor, a portion of the clamping mechanism, a support, an insulator, an actuator, a temperature controller, or an aligner) may be included within the cavity. The component may be coupled to a lower portion of the base. The component may be coupled to an upper portion (e.g., top surface) of the substrate. The component may be placed (e.g., manually, and/or automatically) within the cavity. The component may be any sensor, controller, and/or fastener, or aligner described herein. For example, the component may be a temperature adjuster (e.g., a heater, cooler). The temperature adjustor/controller/regulator may maintain a uniform temperature across a (e.g., substantial, entire) area of the base and/or the substrate. The component may include an insulator. The insulator may isolate a portion of the elevator mechanism from a (e.g., temperature controlled) portion of the base and/or the substrate. [0195] In some embodiments, the platform is transferable. The platform may be vertically transferable, for example using an actuator. The platform may be transferable using a lifting mechanism. The lifting mechanism may comprise a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may comprise a (i) lead screw' (e.g., with a nut). The lead screw may comprise a nut. The nut may be coupled to a shaft or guide rod. A turning of the lead screws and/or nut may allow the shaft (or guide rod) to travel (e.g., vertically). The lead screwcan be coupled to an actuator (e.g., a motor). The actuator may comprise a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may be a direct drive mechanism. The drive mechanism may comprise one or more guideposts. The guideposts may be guided with bearings (e.g., linear bearings). The drive mechanism may comprise high torque and low inertia. The drive mechanism may comprise a feedback sensor. The feedback sensor may be disposed (e.g., directly) on a rotary part of the drive mechanism. The feedback sensor may facilitate precise angular position sensing. The lifting mechanism may comprise a guide mechanism. The guide mechanism may comprise one or more guideposts. The guideposts may be vertical guideposts, (e.g., each having an encoder). The guide mechanism may comprise one or more (e.g., linear) bearings, or columns. The guide mechanism may comprise a linear motor. The linear motor may comprise a (e.g., linear) array of magnets, and an electromagnet. The guide mechanism may comprise a (e.g., motorized) linear slide. The guide mechanism may facilitate vertical guidance of the platform. The guide mechanism may comprise one or more horizontal guideposts. The guidepost may be coupled (e g., connected) to the platform (e g., substrate) and/or bottom of the build platform. The guide mechanism may comprise one or more bearings. The guide mechanism may comprise a motor. The guide mechanism may comprise a screw. The motor may be connected to the screw. The guidepost may comprise a (e.g., linear) slide. The guide mechanism may facilitate vertical guidance of the platform. The guidepost may comprise a shaft that is coupled to the guidepost. Coupled may be connected. The shafts may comprise wheels or bearings. The wheels or bearings may slide along the guidepost horizontally or vertically. The shafts may be coupled in at least one position. The movement of the shafts along the guidepost may cause the platform to alter its vertical position. The guideposts may allow the platform to retain its leveled (e.g., horizontal) position. A movement of the screw may allow' the wheels or bearings that are coupled to the shafts to alter their position (e.g., controllably), thus altering the position of the shafts, and subsequently altering the position of the platform. For example, a revolution of the screw may shift the bearings both in a horizontal and vertical position, which will subsequently alter the position of the platform vertically. The lifting mechanism may comprise a (e.g., automatic) device that uses error-sensing negative feedback to correct the performance of the lifting mechanism (e.g., servo). The bearing may comprise a ball, dovetail, linear-roller, magnetic, or fluid bearing. The guide mechanism may comprise a rail. The actuator may be controlled by at least one of the build module controller, processing chamber controller, and load lock controller. In some embodiments, a different controller controls the actuator at different times (e.g., attachment or detachment of the build module from the processing chamber and/or the load lock). The lifting (e.g., elevation) mechanism may comprise an encoder. The encoder may facilitate controlling (e.g., monitoring) the (e.g., relative) vertical position of the platform. The encoder may span the (e.g., allowed) motion region of the elevation mechanism. The terms lifting mechanism and elevation mechanism are used herein interchangeably.

[0196] In some embodiments, the actuator causes a translation. The actuator may cause a vertical translation. An actuator causing a vertical translation (e.g., an elevation mechanism) is shown as an example in Fig. 1, 105. The up and down arrow next to the indication for vertical translation, signifies a possible direction of movement of tire elevation mechanism, or a possible direction of movement effectuated by the elevation mechanism. The elevation mechanism may comprise one or more vertical actuators. The vertical actuators may comprise guide rods. The elevation mechanism (e.g., lifting mechanism) may comprise one or more guide rods. Fig. 1 shows an example of a single guide rod as part of the elevation mechanism for vertical translation 112. The elevation mechanism may comprise at least 2, 3, 4, 5 guide rods. The motor of the multiplicity of guide rods may be synchronized to facilitate a planar movement of the platform up and/or down. The guide rods may be stably connected to the platform. The guide rods may facilitate control of the magnitude, direction and/or angle of elevation of the platform. The guide rods may be dense. In some embodiments, the guide rods may be hollow. The guide rods may comprise a channel. The channel may allow electricity and/or gas to run through. The channel may allow electrical cables to run through. The elevation mechanism may comprise hydraulic, magnetic, or electronic force. The guide rods may comprise or be coupled to a nut. The elevation mechanism may comprise one or more lead screws. The nut may rotate with respect to the lead screw to allow vertical motion of the platform to which the nut is coupled. The lead screw may rotate with respect to the nut to allow vertical motion of the platform to which the nut is coupled. The lead screws may be coupled to a motor. The motor may rotate the lead screws to allow the guide rods to travel up and/or down along the lead screw. The platform (e.g., and forming material bed) may be in a first environment, and the lead screws may be in a second environment. The first environment may be (e.g., substantially) similar or different from the second environment. The first and second environments may be separated from each other by at least one seal. The seal may be a gas seal. The seal may be a seal that prevents a pre-transformed (and a transformed) material to travel through. The seal may be a sieve. The seal may be any seal disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the nut may be motorized.

[0197] In some embodiments, the platform is coupled to an encoder. The platform may be coupled to a vertical encoder. The encoder may be a rotary encoder, a shaft encoder, an electro-mechanical encoder, an optical encoder, a magnetic encoder, a capacitive encoder, a gray encoder, an electrical encoder, or a servo motor. One of a side of the encoder may be coupled to a bottom surface of the platform. The opposite side of the encoder may be coupled to a bottom plate of the build module. The encoder may comprise a sensor (e.g., a position sensor, a thermal sensor, a motion sensor, or a weight sensor). The sensor may be any sensor disclosed herein. The sensor may sense a thermal expansion and/or contraction of the platform. The sensor may sense a thermal expansion and/or contraction of the elevator mechanism. The sensor may sense a thermal expansion and/or contraction of the build module. The sensor may sense a weight on the platform. The sensor may sense a position (e.g., absolute, or relative position) of the elevator mechanism. The sensor may sense a motion of the elevator mechanism. The sensed measurement may be received by the encoder. The encoder may direct a controller (e.g., an actuator) to adjust the measurement (e.g., before, during and/or after the 3D printing). For example, the controller may compensate for thermal expansion and/or contraction. The controller may adjust a position of the elevator mechanism based on the load on the platform. The adjustment may be before, during and/or after the 3D printing.

[0198] In some embodiments, an encoder is coupled to the build module. The bottom of the build module (e.g., bottom of the elevator mechanism) may be coupled to one or more encoders (e.g., one encoder for each of the lead screws). In some embodiments, the bottom encoder may be coupled to an external engagement mechanism. The bottom encoders may be any encoder disclosed herein. The bottom encoders may communicate with a controller. The bottom encoders may communicate with the same controller as the vertical encoder. The bottom encoders may be controlled by the same controller as the vertical encoder. The bottom encoders may be controlled by a separate controller (e.g., microcontroller). The bottom encoders may adjust a position of the elevator mechanism, compensate for weight on the platform, and/or compensate for thermal expansion/contraction.

[0199] In some embodiments, the build module is comprised within an external engagement mechanism. The external engagement mechanism may include an external chamber. The external engagement mechanism may include an automated guide vehicle (e.g., may comprise wheels, actuator, a conveyor, a joint, or a robotic arm). The external engagement mechanism may convey the build module to engage with the processing chamber. Conveying may be in a vertical and/or horizontal direction. Conveying may be at an angle (e.g., planar or compound). The external engagement mechanism may comprise one or more build modules. The build module may be conveyer before, or after the 3D object is printed. Conveying may include a translation mechanism. The translation mechanism may comprise an actuator (e g., a motor). The motor may be any motor described herein. The actuator may be any actuator described herein. In some embodiments, the external chamber may be reversibly coupled to the build module. In some examples, the external chamber may be a part of the build module. The build module(s) may be exchangeable. One or more portions (e.g., a build module conveying mechanism, or a load-lock engaging mechanism) of the external engagement mechanism may be self-locking. The external engagement mechanism may comprise one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may be disposed along the trajectory of the external engagement mechanism. In some examples, the external engagement mechanism may comprise a redundant sensor scheme. The redundant sensor scheme may comprise coupling at least two sensors to a component of the external engagement mechanism. The first sensor may detect a signal of opposite polarity than the second sensor within the redundant sensor scheme. In some examples, at least two of the sensors may be of the same type. In some examples, at least two of the sensors may be of different types. The sensor may be any sensor described herein (e.g., location, temperature, and/or optical sensor). The external engagement mechanism may comprise a safety mechanism. The safety mechanism may include detecting an event. The event may comprise a component failure, a manual interruption during 3D printing, or a manual override signal. The safety mechanism may be activated in response to the event. The safety mechanism may be activated in response to a manual override mechanism. The safety mechanism may include shutting off (e.g., entire or portions of) the control of the external engagement mechanism. The safety mechanism may comprise turning off a power supply to at least one component of the 3D printer. For example, the safety mechanism may include shutting of at least a portion of the external engagement mechanism. Examples of shutting off may comprise (i) activation of a breaker mechanism, (ii) turning off the (e.g., entire) power supply to the 3D printer, or (iii) turning off one or more motors (e.g., turning off a motion component of the external engagement mechanism). The safety mechanism may include preserving and/or recording a state (e.g., system state, or state of one or more sensors) of the external engagement mechanism. The safety mechanism may facilitate restoring a state of at least one component of the 3D printer. For example, the safety mechanism may facilitate restoring a state of the external engagement mechanism. In some examples, the external engagement mechanism comprises an override mechanism. The override mechanism may comprise one or more switches. The switches may be manually and/or automatically activated. The override mechanism may release automated control (e.g., to allow manual control) of at least one component of the 3D printer (e.g., of at least one component of the external engagement mechanism).

[0200] In some cases, auxiliary support(s) adhere to the upper surface of the platform. In some examples, the auxiliary' supports of the printed 3D object may touch the platform (e.g., the bottom of the enclosure, the substrate, or the base). Sometimes, the auxiliary support may adhere to the platform. In some embodiments, the auxiliary supports are an integral part of the platform. At times, auxiliary support(s) of the printed 3D object, do not touch the platform. In any of the methods described herein, the printed 3D object may be supported only by the pre-transformed material within the material bed (e.g., powder bed, Fig. 1, 104). Any auxiliary support(s) of the printed 3D object, if present, may be suspended adjacent to the platform. Occasionally, the platform may have a pre-hardened (e.g., pre-solidified) amount of material. Such presolidified material may provide support to the printed 3D object. At times, the platform may provide adherence to the material. At times, the platform does not provide adherence to the material. The platform may comprise elemental metal, metal alloy, elemental carbon, or ceramic. The platform may comprise a composite material (e.g., as disclosed herein). The platform may comprise glass, stone, zeolite, or a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include a hydrocarbon or fluorocarbon. The platform (e.g., base) may include Teflon. The platform may include compartments for printing small objects. Small may be relative to the size of the enclosure. The compartments may form a smaller compartment within the enclosure, which may accommodate a layer of pre-transformed material.

[0201] In some embodiments, the energy beam projects energy to the material bed. The apparatuses, systems, and/or methods described herein can comprise at least one energy beam. In some cases, the apparatuses, systems, and/or methods described can comprise two, three, four, five, or more energy beams. The energy beam may include radiation comprising electromagnetic, electron, positron, proton, plasma, or ionic radiation. The electromagnetic beam may comprise microwave, infrared, ultraviolet, or visible radiation. The ion beam may include a cation or an anion. The electromagnetic beam may comprise a laser beam. The energy beam may derive from a laser source. The energy source may be a laser source. The laser may comprise a fiber laser, a solid-state laser, or a diode laser. The energy source may be stationary. The energy source may not translate during the 3D printing.

[0202] In some embodiments, the laser source comprises a Nd: YAG, Neodymium (e.g., neodymium- glass), or an Ytterbium laser. The laser beam may comprise a corona laser beam, e.g., a laser beam having a footprint similar to a doughnut shape. The laser may comprise a carbon dioxide laser (CO2 laser). The laser may be a fiber laser. The fiber laser may be a diode pumped fiber laser. The laser may be a solid-state laser. The laser can be a diode laser. The energy source may comprise a diode array. The energy source may comprise a diode array laser. The laser may be a laser used for micro laser sintering. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components (e.g., energy beam(s)), associated methods of use, software, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, and US15/374,535, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

[0203] In some embodiments, the 3D printer includes a plurality of energy beam, e.g., laser beams. The 3D printer may comprise at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 24, 32, 36, 64, or more energy beams. Each of the energy beam may be coupled with its own optical window. At times, at least two energy beams may shine through the same optical window. At times, at least two energy beams may shine through different optical windows.

[0204] In some embodiments, the beam profile of the energy beam is altered, e.g., during printing. Any of the 3D printing methodologies disclosed herein can include altering the beam profile. Alteration of the beam profile can be using a physical component and/or a computational scheme (e.g., algorithm). Alteration of the beam profile can comprise manual and/or automatic methods. The automatic methods may comprise usage of at least one controller directing the beam profile alteration. The beam profile may be altered during the 3D printing, e.g., during printing of a layer of transformed material that forms at least a portion of the 3D object. Alteration of the beam profile can comprise alteration of a type of an energy profile utilized. The ty pe of the beam profile comprises: a gaussian beam profile, a top hat beam profile, or a doughnut (e.g., corona) beam profile. For example, the energy beam may print a first portion of the 3D object using a gaussian beam profile, and then print a second portion of the 3D object using a doughnut shaped beam profile.

[0205] In some embodiments, the energy beam (e.g., transforming energy beam) comprises a Gaussian energy beam. The energy beam may have any cross-sectional shape comprising an ellipse (e.g., circle), or a polygon (e.g., as disclosed herein). The energy beam may have a cross section with a FLS (e.g., diameter) of at least about 50 micrometers (pm), 100 p , 150 pm, 200 pm, or 250 pm. The energy beam may have a cross section with a FLS of at most about 60 micrometers (pm), 100 pm, 150 pm, 200 pm, or 250 pm. The energy beam may have a cross section with a FLS of any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 pm to about 250 pm, from about 50 pm to about 150 pm, or from about 150 pm to about 250 pm). The power per unit area of the energy beam may be at least about 100 Watt per millimeter square (W/mm ² ), 200 W/mm ² , 300 W/mm ² , 400 W/mm ² , 500 W/mm ² , 600 W/mm ² , 700 W/mm ² , 800 W/mm ² , 900 W/mm ² , 1000 W/mm ² , 2000 W/mm ² , 3000 W/mm ² , 5000 W/mm2, 7000 W/mm ² , or 10000 W/mm ² . The power per unit area of the energy beam may be at most about 110 W/mm ² , 200 W/mm ² , 300 W/mm ² , 400 W/mm ² , 500 W/mm ² , 600 W/mm ² , 700 W/mm ² , 800 W/mm ² , 900 W/mm ² , 1000 W/mm ² , 2000 W/mm ² , 3000 W/mm ² , 5000 W/mm ² , 7000 W/mm ² , or 10000 W/mm ² . The power per unit area of the energy beam may be any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 100 W/mm ² to about 3000 W/mm ² , from about 100 W/mm ² to about 5000 W/mm ² , from about 100 W/mm ² to about 10000 W/mm ² , from about 100 W/mm ² to about 500 W/mm ² , from about 1000 W/mm ² to about 3000 W/mm ² , from about 1000 W/mm ² to about 3000 W/mm ² , or from about 500 W/mm ² to about 1000 W/mm ² ). The scanning speed of the energy beam may be at least about 50 millimeters per second (mm/sec), 100 mm/sec, 500 mm/sec, 1000 mm/sec, 2000 mm/sec, 3000 mm/sec, 4000 mm/sec, or 50000 mm/sec. The scanning speed of the energy beam may be at most about 50 mm/sec, 100 mm/sec, 500 mm/sec, 1000 mm/sec, 2000 mm/sec, 3000 mm/sec, 4000 mm/sec, or 5000 mm/sec. The scanning speed of the energy beam may any value betw een the aforc-mcntioncd values (e.g., from about 50 mm/scc to about 5000 mm/scc, from about 50 mm/scc to about 3000 mm/sec, or from about 2000 mm/sec to about 5000 mm/sec). The energy beam may be continuous or non-continuous (e.g., pulsing). The energy beam may be modulated before and/or during the formation of a transformed material as part of the 3D object. The energy beam may be modulated before and/or during tire 3D printing process.

[0206] In some embodiments, the energy beam is generated by an energy source having a power. The energy source (e.g., laser) may have a power of at least about 10 Watt (W), 30W, 50W, 80W, 100W, 120W, 150W, 200W, 250W, 300W, 350W, 400W, 500W, 750W, 800W, 900W, 1000W, 1500W, 2000W, 3000W, or 4000W. The energy beam may have a power of at most about 10 W, 30W, 50W, 80W, 100W, 120W, 150W, 200W, 250W, 300W, 350W, 400W, 500W, 750W, 800W, 900W, 1000W, 1500, 2000W, 3000W, or 4000W. The energy source may have a power between any of the afore-mentioned energy source power values (e.g., from about 10W to about 100W, from about 100W to about 1000W, or from about 1000W to about 4000W). The energy beam may derive from an electron gun. The energy beam may include a pulsed energy beam, a continuous wave energy beam, or a quasi-continuous wave energy beam. The pulse energy beam may have a repetition frequency of at least about 1 Kilo Hertz (KHz), 2 KHz, 3 KHz, 4 KHz, 5 KHz, 6 KHz, 7 KHz, 8 KHz, 9 KHz, 10 KHz, 20 KHz, 30 KHz, 40 KHz, 50 KHz, 60 KHz, 70 KHz, 80 KHz, 90 KHz, 100 KHz, 150 KHz, 200 KHz, 250 KHz, 300 KHz, 350 KHz, 400 KHz, 450 KHz, 500 KHz, 550 KHz, 600 KHz, 700 KHz, 800 KHz, 900 KHz, 1 Mega Hertz (MHz), 2 MHz, 3 MHz, 4 MHz, or 5 MHz. The pulse energy beam may have a repetition frequency of at most about 1 Kilo Hertz (KHz), 2 KHz, 3 KHz, 4 KHz, 5 KHz, 6 KHz, 7 KHz, 8 KHz, 9 KHz, 10 KHz, 20 KHz, 30 KHz, 40 KHz, 50 KHz, 60 KHz, 70 KHz, 80 KHz, 90 KHz, 100 KHz, 150 KHz, 200 KHz, 250 KHz, 300 KHz, 350 KHz, 400 KHz, 450 KHz, 500 KHz, 550 KHz, 600 KHz, 700 KHz, 800 KHz, 900 KHz, 1 Mega Hertz (MHz), 2 MHz, 3 MHz, 4 MHz, or 5 MHz. The pulse energy beam may have a repetition frequency between any of the aforementioned repetition frequencies (e.g., from about IKHz to about 5MHz, from about IKHz to about 1MHz, or from about 1MHz to about 5MHz).

[0207] In some embodiments, the methods, apparatuses and/or systems disclosed herein comprise Q- switching, mode coupling or mode locking to effectuate the pulsing energy beam. The apparatus or systems disclosed herein may comprise an on/off switch, a modulator, or a chopper to effectuate the pulsing energy beam. The on/off switch can be manually or automatically controlled. The switch may be controlled by the control system. The switch may alter the “pumping power” of the energy beam. The energy beam may be at times focused, non-focused, or defocused. In some instances, the defocus is (e.g., substantially) zero (e.g., the beam is non-focused).

[0208] In some embodiments, the energy source(s) projects energy using a DLP modulator, a onedimensional scanner, a tw o-dimensional scanner, or any combination thereof. The energy source(s) can be stationary or translatable. The energy source(s) can translate vertically, horizontally, or in an angle (e.g., planar or compound angle). The energy source(s) can be modulated. The energy beam(s) emitted by the energy source(s) can be modulated. The modulator can include an amplitude modulator, phase modulator, or polarization modulator. The modulation may alter the intensity of the energy beam. The modulation may alter the current supplied to the energy source (e.g., direct modulation). The modulation may affect the energy beam (e.g., external modulation such as external light modulator). The modulation may include direct modulation (e g., by a modulator). The modulation may include an external modulator. The modulator can include an acousto-optic modulator or an electro-optic modulator. The modulator can comprise an absorptive modulator or a refractive modulator. The modulation may alter the absorption coefficient the material that is used to modulate the energy beam. The modulator may alter the refractive index of the material that is used to modulate the energy beam.

[0209] In some examples, the energy beam(s), energy source(s), and/or the platform of the energy beam translates. The energy beam(s), energy source(s), and/or the platform of the energy beam array can be translated via a galvanometer scanner, a polygon, a mechanical stage (e.g., X-Y stage), a piezoelectric device, gimbal, or any combination of thereof. The galvanometer may comprise a mirror. The galvanometer scanner may comprise a two-axis galvanometer scanner. The scanner may comprise a modulator (e.g., as described herein). The scanner may comprise a polygonal mirror. The scanner can be the same scanner for two or more energy sources and/or beams. At least two (e.g., each) energy source and/or beam may have a separate scanner. The energy sources can be translated independently of each other. In some cases, at least two energy sources and/or beams can be translated at different rates, and/or along different paths. For example, the movement of a first energy source may be faster as compared to the movement of a second energy source The systems and/or apparatuses disclosed herein may comprise one or more shutters (e g., safety shutters), on/off switches, or apertures.

[0210] In some examples, the energy beam comprises an energy beam footprint on the target surface. The energy beam (e.g., laser) may have a FLS (e.g., a diameter) of its footprint on the on the exposed surface of the material bed of at least about 1 micrometer ( ), 5pm, 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, 100 pm, 200 pm, 300 pm, 400 pm, or 500 pm. The energy beam may have a FLS on the layer of it footprint on the exposed surface of the material bed of at most about 1 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, 100 pm, 200 pm, 300 pm, 400 pm, or 500 pm. The energy beam may have a FLS on the exposed surface of the material bed between any of the aforementioned energy beam FLS values (e g., from about 5 pm to about 500 pm, from about 5 pm to about 50 pm, or from about 50 pm to about 500 pm). The beam may be a focused beam. The beam may be a dispersed beam. The beam may be an aligned beam. The apparatus and/or systems described herein may further comprise a focusing coil, a deflection coil, or an energy beam power supply. The defocused energy beam may have a FLS of at least about 1mm, 5mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, or 100 mm. The defocused energy beam may have a FLS of at most about 1mm, 5mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, or 1 0 mm. The energy beam may have a defocused cross-sectional FLS on the layer of pretransformed material between any of the afore-mentioned energy beam FLS values (e.g., from about 5 mm to about 100mm, from about 5 mm to about 50 mm, or from about 50 mm to about 100 mm).

[0211] The power supply to any of the components described herein can be supplied by a grid, generator, local, or any combination thereof. The power supply can be from renewable or non-renewable sources. The renewable sources may comprise solar, wind, hydroelectric, or biofuel. The powder supply can comprise rechargeable batteries.

[0212] In some embodiments, the energy beam comprises an exposure time (e.g., the amount of time that the energy beam may be exposed to a portion of the target surface). The exposure time of the energy beam may be at least 1 microsecond (ps), 5ps, 10 ps, 20 ps, 30 ps, 40 ps, 50 ps, 60 ps, 70 ps, 80 ps, 90 ps, 100 ps, 200 ps, 300 ps, 400 ps, 500 ps, 800ps, or lOOOps. The exposure time of the energy beam may be most about 1 ps, 5ps, 10 ps, 20 ps, 30 ps, 40 ps, 50 ps, 60 ps, 70 ps, 80 ps, 90 ps, 100 ps, 200 ps, 300 ps, 400 ps, 500 ps, 800ps, or lOOOps. The exposure time of the energy beam may be any value between the aforementioned exposure time values (e.g., from about 1 ps to about 1000 ps, from about 1 ps to about 200 ps, from about 1 ps to about 500 ps, from about 200 ps to about 500 ps, or from about 500 ps to about 1000 ps).

[0213] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a controller. The controller may control one or more characteristics of the energy beam (e.g., variable characteristics). The control of the energy beam may allow a low degree of material evaporation during the 3D printing process. For example, controlling on or more energy beam characteristics may (e.g., substantially) reduce the amount of spatter generated during the 3D printing process. The low degree of material evaporation may be measured in grams of evaporated material and compared to a Kilogram of hardened material formed as part of the 3D object. The low degree of material evaporation may be evaporation of at most about 0.25 grams (gr.), 0.5gr, Igr, 2gr, 5gr, lOgr, 15gr, 20gr, 30gr, or 50gr per every Kilogram of hardened material formed as part of the 3D object. The low degree of material evaporation per every Kilogram of hardened material formed as part of the 3D object may be any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.25gr to about 50gr, from about 0.25gr to about 30gr, from about 0.25gr to about 10 gr, from about 0.25gr to about 5gr, or from about 0.25gr to about 2gr).

[0214] The methods, systems and/or the apparatus described herein comprise at least one energy source (e.g., energy beam source such as a laser source). In some cases, the system can comprise two, three, four, five, or more energy sources. An energy source can be a source configured to deliver energy to an area (e.g., a confined area). An energy source can deliver energy to the confined area through radiative heat transfer. [0215] The energy source can supply any of the energies described herein (e.g., energy beams). The energy source may deliver energy to a point or to an area. The energy source may include an electron gun source. The energy source may include a laser source. The energy source may comprise an array of lasers. In an example, a laser can provide light energy at a peak wavelength of at least about 100 nanometer (nm), 500 nm, 1000 nm, 1010 nm, 1020mn, 1030 nm, 1040 nm, 1050 nm, 1060 nm, 1070 nm, 1080 nm, 1090 nm, 1100 nm, 1200 nm, 1500 nm, 1600 nm, 1700 nm, 1800 nm, 1900 nm, or 2000 nm. In an example, a laser can provide light energy at a peak wavelength of at most about 100 nanometer (nm), 00 nm, 1000 nm, 1010 nm, 1020nm, 1030 nm, 1040 nm, 1050 nm, 1060 nm, 1070 nm, 1080 nm, 1090 nm, 1 100 nm, 1200 nm, 1500 nm, 1600 nm, 1700 nm, 1800 nm, 1900 nm, or 2000 nm. In an example, a laser can provide light energy at a peak wavelength between the afore-mentioned peak wavelengths (e.g., from lOOnm to 2000 nm, from lOOnm to 1 lOOnm, or from 1000 nm to 2000 nm). The energy beam can be incident on the top surface of the material bed. The energy beam can be incident on, or be directed to, a specified area of the material bed over a specified time period. The energy beam can be (e.g., substantially) perpendicular to the top (e.g., exposed) surface of the material bed. The material bed can absorb the energy from the energy beam (e.g., incident energy beam) and, as a result, a localized region of the material in the material bed can increase in temperature. The increase in temperature may transform the material within the material bed. The increase in temperature may heat and transform the material within the material bed. In some embodiments, the increase in temperature may heat and not transform the material within the material bed. The increase in temperature may heat the material within the material bed.

[0216] In some embodiments, the energy beam and/or source are moveable such that it can translate relative to the material bed. The energy beam and/or source can be moved by a scanner. The movement of the energy beam and/or source can comprise utilization of a scanner.

[0217] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system includes at least two energy beams. At one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during the entire build of the 3D object: At least two of the energy beams and/or sources can be translated independently of each other or in concert with each other. At least two of the multiplicity of energy beams can be translated independently of each other or in concert with each other. In some cases, at least tw o of the energy beams can be translated at different rates such that the movement of the one is faster compared to the movement of at least one other energy beam. In some cases, at least two of the energy sources can be translated at different rates such that tire movement of the one energy source is faster compared to the movement of at least another energy source. In some cases, at least two of the energy sources (e.g., all of the energy sources) can be translated at different paths. In some cases, at least two of the energy sources can be translated at (e.g., substantially) identical paths. In some cases, at least two of the energy sources can follow one another in time and/or space. In some cases, at least two of the energy sources translate (e.g., substantially) parallel to each other in time and/or space. The power per unit area of at least two of the energy beam may be (e.g., substantially) identical. The power per unit area of at least one of the energy beams may be varied (e.g., during the formation of the 3D object). The power per unit area of at least one of the energy beams may be different. The power per unit area of at least one of the energy beams may be different. The power per unit area of one energy beam may be greater than the power per unit area of a second energy beam. The energy' beams may have the same or different wavelengths. A first energy beam may have a wavelength that is smaller or larger than the wavelength of a second energy beam. The energy beams can derive from the same energy source. At least one of the energy beams can derive from different energy sources. The energy' beams can derive from different energy' sources. At least two of the energy' beams may have tire same power (e.g., at one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during the entire build of the 3D object). At least one of the beams may have a different power (e.g., at one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during the entire build of the 3D object). The beams may have different powers (e g., at one point in time, and/or (e.g., substantially) during the entire build of the 3D object). At least two of the energy beams may travel at (e g., substantially) the same velocity. At least one of the energy beams may travel at different velocities. The velocity of travel (e g , speed) of at least two energy beams may be (e.g., substantially) constant. The velocity of travel of at least two energy beams may be varied (e.g., during the formation of the 3D object or a portion thereof). The travel may refer to a travel relative to (e.g., on) the exposed surface of the material bed (e g., powder material). The travel may refer to a travel close to the exposed surface of the material bed. The travel may be within the material bed. The at least one energy beam and/or source may travel relative to the material bed.

[0218] In some embodiments, the energy (e.g., energy beam) travels in a path. The path may comprise a hatch. The path of the energy beam may comprise repeating a path. For example, the first energy may repeat its own path. The second energy may repeat its own path, or the path of the first energy. The repetition may comprise a repetition of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 times or more. The energy may follow a path comprising parallel lines. For example, Fig. 8, 815 or 814 show paths that comprise parallel lines. The lines may be hatch lines. The distance between each of the parallel lines or hatch lines, may be at least about 1 pm, 5 pm. 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, or more. The distance between each of the parallel lines or hatch lines, may be at most about 1 pm, 5pm, 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, or less. The distance between each of the parallel lines or hatch lines may be any value between any of the afore-mentioned distance values (e.g., from about 1 pm to about 90 pm, from about 1 pm to about 50 pm, or from about 40 pm to about 90 pm). The distance between die parallel or parallel lines or hatch lines may be (e.g., substantially) the same in every layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material. The distance between the parallel lines or hatch lines in one layer (e g., plane) of transformed material may be different than the distance between the parallel lines or hatch lines respectively in another layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material within the 3D object. The distance between the parallel lines or hatch lines portions within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may be (e.g., substantially) constant. The distance between the parallel lines or hatch lines within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may be varied. The distance between a first pair of parallel lines or hatch lines within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material may be different than the distance between a second pair of parallel lines or hatch lines within a layer (e.g., plane) of transformed material respectively. The first energy beam may follow a path comprising two hatch lines or paths that cross in at least one point. The hatch lines or paths may be straight or curved. The hatch lines or paths may be winding. Fig. 8, 810 or 811 show examples of winding paths. The first energy beam may follow a hatch line or path comprising a U-shaped turn (e g., Fig. 8, 810). The first energy beam may follow a hatch line or path devoid of U shaped turns (e g , Fig. 812).

[0219] In some embodiments, the formation of the 3D object includes transforming (e.g., fusing, binding, or connecting) the pre-transformed material (e.g., powder material) using an energy beam. The energy beam may be projected on to a particular area of the material bed, thus causing the pre -transformed material to transform. The energy beam may cause at least a portion of the pre -transformed material to transform from its present state of matter to a different state of matter. For example, the pre-transformed material may transform at least in part (e.g., completely) from a solid to a liquid state. The energy beam may cause at least a portion of the pre-transformed material to chemically transform. For example, the energy beam may cause chemical bonds to form or break. The chemical transformation may be an isomeric transformation. The transformation may comprise a magnetic transformation or an electronic transformation. The transformation may comprise coagulation of the material, cohesion of the material, or accumulation of the material.

[0220] In some examples, the methods described herein further comprise repeating the operations of material deposition and material transformation operations to produce a 3D object (or a portion thereof) by at least one 3D printing (e.g., additive manufacturing) method. For example, the methods described herein may further comprise repeating the operations of depositing a layer of pre-transformed material and transforming at least a portion of the pre-transformed material to connect to the previously formed 3D object portion, thus forming at least a portion of a 3D object. The transforming operation may comprise utilizing an energy beam to transform the material. In some instances, the energy beam is utilized to transform at least a portion of the material bed (e.g., utilizing any of the methods described herein).

[0221] In some examples, the transforming energy is provided by an energy source. The transforming energy may comprise an energy beam. The energy source can produce an energy beam. The energy beam may include a radiation comprising electromagnetic, electron, positron, proton, plasma, or ionic radiation. The electromagnetic beam may comprise microwave, infrared, ultraviolet, or visible radiation. The ion beam may include a charged particle beam. The ion beam may include a cation, or an anion. The electromagnetic beam may comprise a laser beam. The laser may comprise a fiber, or a solid-state laser beam. The energy source may include a laser. The energy source may include an electron gun. The energy depletion may comprise heat depletion. The energy depletion may comprise cooling. The energy may comprise an energy flux (e.g., energy beam. E.g., radiated energy). The energy may comprise an energy beam. The energy may be the transforming energy. The energy may be a wanning energy that is not able to transform the deposited pre-transformed material (e.g., in the material bed). The warming energy may be able to raise the temperature of the deposited pre -transformed material. The energy beam may comprise energy provided at a (e.g., substantially) constant or varied energy beam characteristic. The energy beam may comprise energy provided at (e g., substantially) constant or varied energy beam characteristic, depending on the position of the generated hardened material within the 3D object. The varied energy beam characteristic may comprise energy flux, rate, intensity, wavelength, amplitude, power, cross-section, or time exerted for the energy process (e.g., transforming or heating). The energy beam cross-section may be the average (or mean) FLS of the cross section of the energy beam on the layer of material (e.g., powder). The FLS may be a diameter, a spherical equivalent diameter, a length, a height, a width, or diameter of a bounding circle. The FLS may be the larger of a length, a height, and a width of a 3D form. The FLS may be the larger of a length and a width of a (e.g., substantially) two-dimensional (2D) form (e.g., wire, or 3D surface).

[0222] In some examples, the energy' beam follows a path. The path of the energy beam may be a vector. The path of the energy beam may comprise a raster, a vector, or any combination thereof. The path of the energy beam may comprise an oscillating pattern. The path of the energy beam may comprise a zigzag, wave (e.g., curved, triangular, or square), or curve pattern. The curved wave may comprise a sine or cosine wave. The path of the energy beam may comprise a sub-pattern. The path of the energy beam may comprise an oscillating (e.g., zigzag), wave (e.g., curved, triangular, or square), and/or curved sub-pattern. The curved wave may comprise a sine or cosine wave. Fig. 7 shows an example of a path 701 of an energy beam comprising a zigzag sub-pattern (e g., 702 shown as an expansion (e g., blow-up) of a portion of the path 701). The sub-path of the energy beam may comprise a wave (e.g., sine or cosine wave) pattern. The subpath may be a small path that forms the large path. The sub-path may be a component (e.g., a portion) of the large path. The path that the energy beam follows may be a predetermined path. A model may predetermine the path by utilizing a controller or an individual (e.g., human). The controller may comprise a processor. The processor may comprise a computer, computer program, drawing or drawing data, statue or statue data, or any combination thereof.

[0223] In some embodiments, the path comprises successive lines. The successive lines may touch each other. The successive lines may overlap each other in at least one point. The successive lines may (e.g., substantially) overlap each other. The successive lines may be spaced by a first distance (e.g., hatch spacing). Fig. 8 shows an example of a path 814 that includes five hatches wherein each two immediately adjacent hatches are separated by a spacing distance. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use (e.g., hatch spacing), 3D objects, software, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US 16/34857 filed on May 27, 2016, titled “THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS FORMED USING THE SAME”; and in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/808,777, filed November 09, 2017, titled “THREE- DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

|0224| In some examples, the methods, apparatuses, software, and/or systems described herein comprise a 3D printing process (e.g., added manufacturing) including at least one modification. The modification may include changes to the (e.g., a conventional) 3D printing process, 3D model of the requested 3D object, 3D printing instructions, or any combination thereof. The changes may comprise subtraction or addition. The printing instructions may include instruction given to the radiated energy (e.g., energy beam). The instructions can be given to a controller that controls (e.g., regulates) the energy beam and/or energy source. The modification can be in the energy power, frequency, duty cycle, and/or any other modulation parameter. The modification may comprise varying an energy beam characteristic. The modification can include 3D printing process modification. The modification can include a correction (e.g., a geometrical correction) to a model of a requested 3D object. The geometric correction may comprise duplicating a path in a model of the 3D object with a vertical, lateral, or angular (e.g., planer or compound angle) change in position. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use (e.g., modification), software (e.g., for estimating the modification), 3D objects, devices, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US16/34857;

US15/808,777; International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US17/18191 filed on February 16, 2017, titled “ACCURATE THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/435,090 filed February 16, 2017, titled “ACCURATE THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The geometric correction may comprise expanding a path in a model of the 3D object in a vertical, lateral, or angular (e.g., planar or compound angle) position. Angular relocation may comprise rotation. The geometric correction may comprise altering (e.g., expanding or shrinking) a path in a model of the 3D object in a vertical, lateral, or angular (e.g., planer or compound angle) position. The modification can include a variation in a characteristic of the energy (e.g., energy beam) using in the 3D printing process, a variation in the path that the energy travels on (or within) a layer of material (in a material bed) to be transformed and form the 3D object. The layer of material can be a layer of powder material. The modification may depend on a selected position within the generated 3D object, such as an edge, a kink, a suspended structure, a bridge, a lower surface, or any combination thereof. The modification may depend on a hindrance for (e.g., resistance to) energy depletion within the 3D object as it is being generated, or a hindrance for (e.g., resistance to) energy depletion in the surrounding pretransformed material (e.g., powder material). The modification may depend on a degree of packing of the pre-transformed material within a material bed (e.g., a powder material within a powder bed). For example, the modification may depend on the density of the powder material within a powder bed. The powder material may be unused, recycled, new, or aged.

[0225] In some embodiments, the methods, apparatuses, software, and/or systems comprise corrective deformation of a 3D model of the requested 3D structure, that (e.g., substantially) result in the requested 3D structure. The corrective deformation may take into account features comprising stress within the forming structure, deformation of transformed material as it hardens to form at least a portion of the 3D object, the manner of temperature depletion during the printing process, the manner of deformation of the transformed material as a function of the density of the pre-transformed material within the material bed (e.g., powder material within a powder bed). The modification may comprise alteration of a path of a cross section (or portion thereof) in the 3D model that is used in the 3D printing instructions. The alteration of the path may comprise alteration of the path filling at least a portion of the cross section (e.g., hatches). The alteration of the hatches may comprise alteration of the direction of hatches, the density of the hatch lines, the length of the hatch lines, and/or the shape of the hatch lines. The modification may comprise alteration of the thickness of the transformed material. The modification may comprise varying at least a portion of a crosssection of the 3D model (e g., that is used in the 3D printing instructions) by an angle, and/or inflicting to at least a portion of a cross section, a radius of curvature. The angle can be planer or compound angle. The radius of curvature may arise from a bending of at least a portion of the cross section of a 3D model. Fig. 9 shows an example of a vertical cross section of a layered object showing layer #6 of 912 having a curvature, which curvature has a radius of curvature. The radius of curvature, “r,” of a curve at a point can be a measure of the radius of the circular arc (e.g., Fig. 9, 916) which best approximates the curve at that point. Fig. 9 shows an example of a vertical cross section of a 3D object 912 comprising planar layers (layers numbers 1-4) and non-planar layers (e.g., layers numbers 5-6) that have a radius of curvature. In Fig. 9, 916 and 917 show examples of super-positions of curved layer on a circle 915 having a radius of curvature “r.” The one or more layers may have a radius of curvature equal to the radius of curvature of the layer surface. The radius of curvature can be the inverse of the curvature. In the case of a 3D curve (also herein a “space curve”), the radius of curvature may be the length of the curvature vector. The curvature vector can comprise of a curvature (e.g., the inverse of the radius of curvature) having a particular direction. For example, the particular direction can be die direction towards the platform (e.g., designated herein as negative curvature), or away from the platform (e.g., designated herein as positive curvature). For example, the particular direction can be the direction towards the direction of the gravitational field (e.g., designated herein as negative curvature), or opposite to the direction of the gravitational field (e.g., designated herein as positive curvature). A curve (also herein a “curved line”) can be an object similar to a line that is not required to be straight. A straight line can be a special case of curved line wherein the curvature is (e g., substantially) zero. A line of (e.g., substantially) zero curvature has a (e.g., substantially) infinite radius of curvature. A curve can be in two dimensions (e.g., vertical cross section of a plane), or in three-dimension (e.g., curvature of a plane). The curve may represent a cross section of a curved plane. A straight line may represent a cross section of a flat (e.g., planar) plane.

[0226] In some examples, the path of the transforming energy deviates. The path of the transforming energy may deviate at least in part from a cross section of a requested 3D object. In some instances, the generated 3D object (e.g., substantially) corresponds to the requested 3D object. In some instances, the transforming energy beam follows a path that differs from a cross section of a model of the requested 3D object (e.g., a deviated path), to form a transformed material. When that transformed material hardens, the hardened transformed material may (e.g., substantially) correspond to the respective cross section of a model of the requested 3D object. In some instances, when that transformed material hardens, the hardened material may not correspond to the respective cross section of a model of the requested 3D object. In some instances, when that transformed material hardens, the hardened transformed material may not correspond to the respective cross section of a model of the requested 3D object, however the accumulated transformed material (e.g., accumulated as it forms a plurality of layers of hardened material) may (e.g., substantially) correspond to the requested 3D object. In some instances, when that transformed material hardens, the accumulated hardened material that forms die generated 3D object (e.g., substantially) corresponds to the requested 3D object. The deviation from the path may comprise a deviation between different cross-sections of the requested 3D object. The deviation may comprise a deviation within a cross-section of the requested 3D object. The path can comprise a padi section that is larger than a corresponding path section in the cross section of the requested 3D object. Larger may be larger within the plane of the cross section (e.g., horizontally larger) and/or outside the plane of the cross section (e.g., vertically larger). The path may comprise a path section that is smaller than a respective path section in the cross section of a model of the requested 3D object. Smaller may be within the plane of the cross section (e g., horizontally smaller) and/or outside the plane of the cross section (e.g., vertically smaller).

[0227] In some embodiments, the transformed material deforms upon hardening (e.g., cooling). The deformation of the hardened material may be anticipated. Sometimes, the hardened material may be generated such that the transformed material may deviate from its intended structure, which subsequently forming hardened material therefrom assumes the intended structure. The intended structure may be devoid of deformation, or may have a (e.g., substantially) reduced amount of deformation in relation to its intended use. Such corrective deviation from the intended structure of the tile is termed herein as “geometric correction.”

[0228] In some examples, a newly formed layer of material (e.g., comprising transformed material) reduces in volume during its hardening (e.g., by cooling). Such reduction in volume (e.g., shrinkage) may cause a deformation in the requested 3D object. The deformation may include cracks, and/or tears in the newly formed layer and/or in other (e.g., adjacent) layers. The deformation may include geometric deformation of the 3D object or at least a portion thereof. The newly formed layer can be a portion of a 3D object. The one or more layers that form the 3D printed object (e.g., sequentially) may be (e.g., substantially) parallel to the building platform. An angle may be formed between a layer of hardened material of the 3D printed object and the platform. The angle may be measured relative to the average layering plane of the layer of hardened material. The platform (e.g., building platform) may include the base, substrate, or bottom of the enclosure. The building platform may be a carrier plate.

[0229] In an aspect provided herein is a 3D object comprising a layer of hardened material generated by at least one 3D printing method described herein, wherein the layer of material (e.g., hardened) is different from a corresponding cross section of a model of the 3D object. For example, the generated layers differ from the proposed slices. The layer of material within a 3D object can be indicated by the microstructure of the material. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components, associated methods of use, systems, software, 3D objects (including their material microstructures), and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US 15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, and US15/374,535, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

[0230] The 3D model may comprise a generated, ordered, provided, or replicated 3D model. The model may be generated, ordered, provided, or replicated by a customer, individual, manufacturer, engineer, artist, human, computer, or software. The software can be neural network software. The 3D model can be generated by a 3D modeling program (e.g., SolidWorks®, Google SketchUp®, SolidEdge®, Engineer®, Auto-CAD®, or I-Deas®). In some cases, the 3D model can be generated from a provided sketch, image, or 3D object.

[0231] In some examples, the layer of transformed material differs from a respective slice in a model of the 3D object. The layer of transformed material may differ from a respective cross section (e.g., slice) of a model of the 3D object. The difference may be in the area of the transformed material layer as compared to a respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. For example, the area of the transformed material layer may be smaller than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer may be larger than the respective cross section of a model (e g., model slice) of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer may be a portion of the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object may be divided between at least two different layers of transformed material. The area of the transformed material layer may be larger than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object, and may shrink to form a hardened material that is (e.g., substantially) identical to the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer may be different than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object, and may deform to form a hardened material that is (e.g., substantially) identical to the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The layer of hardened material may differ from a respective cross section (e.g., slice) of a model of the 3D object. The layer of hardened material may be (e.g., substantially) the same as a respective cross section (e.g., slice) of a model of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer may be different than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object, and may deform to form a hardened material within the generated 3D object, wherein the generated 3D object may be (e.g., substantially) identical to the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the transformed material layer may be different than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object, and may form a hardened material within the generated 3D object, wherein the generated 3D object may be (e.g., substantially) identical to the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The layer of hardened material may differ from a respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The difference may be in the area of the hardened material layer as compared to a respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. For example, the area of the hardened material layer may be smaller than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the hardened material layer may be larger than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the hardened material layer may be a portion of the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object. The area of the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object may be divided between at least two different layers of hardened material. The area of the hardened material layer may be different than the respective cross section of a model of the 3D object, and the generated 3D object may be (e.g., substantially) identical to tire respective cross section of a model of the 3D object.

[0232] In some embodiments, the material micro structure of the 3D object reveals the manner in which the 3D object was generated. The material microstructure in a hardened material layer within the 3D object may reveal the manner in which the 3D object was generated. The microstructure of the material in a hardened material layer within the 3D object may reveal the manner in which the layer within the 3D object was generated. The microstructure may comprise the grain- structure, or the melt-pool structure. For example, the path in which the energy traveled and transformed the pre-transformed material to form the hardened material within the printed 3D object may be indicated by the micro structure of the material within the 3D object. The natural position may be with respect to gravity (e.g., a stable position), with respect to everyday position of the requested object as intended (e.g., for its use), or with respect to a 3D model of the requested 3D object. When the 3D object is subsequently retrieved, it is placed in its natural position, and (e.g., substantially) corresponds to the requested 3D object. The microstructure of the 3D object may reveal that it was printed in as a tilted 3D object. The 3D object is printed as a tilted 3D object (or part thereof) forming an acute angle alpha with the plane normal to the field of gravity, the plane of natural position of the requested 3D object, or the building platform. The angle alpha may be at least 0 degrees (°), 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°, 2°, 2.5°, 3°, 3.5°, 4°, 4.5°, 5°, 5.5°, 6°, 6.5°, 7°, 7.5°, 8°, 8.5°, 9°, 9.5°, 10°, 11°, 12°, 13°, 14°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, or 45°. The angle alpha may be at most 0.5°, 1°, 1.5°, 2°, 2.5°, 3°, 3.5°, 4°, 4.5°, 5°, 5.5°, 6°, 6.5°, 7°, 7.5°, 8°, 8.5°, 9°, 9.5°, 10°, 11°, 12°, 13°, 14°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, or 45°. The angle alpha may be any value between the afore-mentioned alpha values (e.g., from about 0 ⁰ to about 45 °, from about 0 ⁰ to about 30 °, or from about 0 ⁰ to about 5 °).

[0233] In some examples, a portion of the generated 3D object is printed with auxiliary support. The term “auxiliary support,” as used herein, generally refers to at least one feature that is a part of a printed 3D object, but not part of the requested, intended, designed, ordered, and/or final 3D object. Auxiliary support may provide structural support during and/or subsequent to tire formation of the 3D object. The auxiliary support may be anchored to tire enclosure. For example, an auxiliary support may be anchored to the platform (e.g., building platform), to the side walls of the material bed, to a wall of the enclosure, to an object (e.g., stationary, or semi-stationary) within the enclosure, or any combination thereof. The auxiliary support may be the platform (e.g., the base, the substrate, or the bottom of the enclosure). The auxiliary support may enable the removal or energy' from the 3D object (e g., or a portion thereof) that is being formed. The removal of energy (e g., heat) may be during and/or after the formation of the 3D object. Examples of auxiliary support comprise a fin (e.g., heat fin), anchor, handle, pillar, column, frame, footing, wall, platform, or another stabilization feature. In some instances, the auxiliary support may be mounted, clamped, or situated on the platform. The auxiliary support can be anchored to the building platform, to the sides (e g., walls) of the building platform, to the enclosure, to an object (stationary or semi-stationary) within the enclosure, or any combination thereof.

[0234] In some examples, the generated 3D object is printed without auxiliary support. In some examples, overhanging feature of the generated 3D object can be printed without (e.g., without any) auxiliary support. The generated object can be devoid of auxiliary supports. The generated object may be suspended (e.g., float anchorlessly) in the material bed (e.g., powder bed). The term “anchorlessly,” as used herein, generally refers to without or in the absence of an anchor. In some examples, an object is suspended in a powder bed anchorlessly without attachment to a support. For example, the object floats in the powder bed. The generated 3D object may be suspended in the layer of pre-transformed material (e.g., powder material). The pre-transformed material (e.g., powder material) can offer support to the printed 3D object (or the object during its generation). Sometimes, the generated 3D object may comprise one or more auxiliary supports. The auxiliary support may be suspended in the pre-transformed material (e.g., powder material). The auxiliary support may provide weights or stabilizers. The auxiliary support can be suspended in the material bed within the layer of pre-transformed material in which the 3D object (or a portion thereof) has been formed. The auxiliary support (e.g., one or more auxiliary supports) can be suspended in the pretransformed material within a layer of pre-transformed material other than the one in which the 3D object (or a portion thereof) has been formed (e.g., a previously deposited layer of (e.g., powder) material). The auxiliary support may touch the platform. The auxiliary support may be suspended in the material bed (e.g., powder material) and not touch the platform. The auxiliary support may be anchored to the platform. The distance between any two auxiliary supports can be at least about 1 millimeter, 1 .3 millimeters (mm), 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 11mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30mm, 40mm, 41mm, or 45mm. The distance between any two auxiliary' supports can be at most 1 millimeter, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.9 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.7 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 11mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30mm, 40mm, 41mm, or 45mm. The distance betw een any two auxiliary supports can be any value in between the afore-mentioned distances (e.g., from about 1mm to about 45mm, from about 1mm to about 11mm, from about 2.2mm to about 15mm, or from about 10mm to about 45mm). At times, a sphere intersecting an exposed surface of the 3D object may be devoid of auxiliary' support. The sphere may have a radius XY that is equal to the distance between any two auxiliary supports mentioned herein. Fig. 6 shows an example of a top view of a 3D object that has an exposed surface. The exposed surface includes an intersection area of a sphere having a radius XY, which intersection area is devoid of auxiliary support. [0235] In some examples, the diminished number of auxiliary supports or lack of auxiliary support, facilitates a 3D printing process that requires a smaller amount of material, produces a smaller amount of material waste, and/or requires smaller energy as compared to commercially available 3D printing processes. The reduced number of auxiliary supports can be smaller by at least about 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 as compared to conventional 3D printing. The smaller amount may be smaller by any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 1.1 to about 10, or from about 1.5 to about 5) as compared to conventional 3D printing.

[0236] In some embodiments, the generated 3D object has a surface roughness profile. The generated 3D object can have various surface roughness profiles, which may be suitable for various applications. The surface roughness may be the deviations in the direction of the normal vector of a real surface from its ideal form. The surface roughness may be measured as the arithmetic average of the roughness profde (hereinafter “Ra”). The formed object can have a Ra value of at most about 200pm. 100 pm. 75 pm. 50 pm. 45 pm, 40 pm, 35 pm, 30 pm, 25pm, 20 pm, 15 pm, 10 pm, 7 pm, 5 pm, 3 pm, 1 pm, 500 nm, 400 nm, 300 nm, 200 nm, 100 nm, 50 nm, 40 nm, or 30 nm. The 3D object can have a Ra value between any of the afore -mentioned Ra values (e.g., from about 50 pm to about 1 pm, from about 100 pm to about 4 pm, from about 30 pm to about 3 pm, from about 60 nm to about 1 pm, or from about 80 nm to about 0.5 pm). The Ra values may be measured by a contact or by a non-contact method. The Ra values may be measured by a roughness tester and/or by a microscopy method (e.g., any microscopy method described herein). The measurements may be conducted at ambient temperatures (e.g., R.T.). The roughness (e.g., as Ra values) may be measured by a contact or by a non-contact method. The roughness measurement may comprise one or more sensors (e.g., optical sensors). The roughness measurement may comprise a metrological measurement device (e.g., using metrological sensor(s)). The roughness may be measured using an electromagnetic beam (e.g., visible or IR).

[0237] In some embodiments, the generated 3D object (e.g., the hardened cover) is substantially smooth. The generated 3D object may have a deviation from an ideal planar surface (e.g., atomically flat or molecularly flat) of at most about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm, 25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer (pm), 1.5 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 15 pm, 20 pm, 25 pm, 30 pm, 35 pm, 100 pm, 300 pm, 500 pm, or less. The generated 3D object may have a deviation from an ideal planar surface of at least about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2 nm, 3 nm, 4 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 15 nm, 20 nm, 25 nm, 30 nm, 35 nm, 100 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 1 micrometer (pm), 1.5 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 15 pm, 20 pm, 25 pm, 30 pm, 35 pm, 100 pm, 300 pm, 500 pm, or more. The generated 3D object may have a deviation from an ideal planar surface between any of the afore-mentioned deviation values. The generated 3D object may comprise a pore. The generated 3D object may comprise pores. The pores may be of an average FLS (diameter or diameter equivalent in case the pores are not spherical) of at most about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2nm, 3nm, 4nm, 5 nm, lOnm, 1 nm, 20nm, 25nm, 30nm 35nm, lOOnm, 300nm, 500nm, 1 micrometer (pm), 1.5 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 15 pm, 20 pm, 25 pm, 30 pm, 35 pm, 100 pm, 300 pm, or 500 pm. The pores may be of an average FLS of at least about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2nm, 3mn, 4nm, 5 nm, lOnm, 15nm, 20nm, 25nm, 30nm, 35nm, lOOnm, 300nm, 500mn, 1 micrometer (pm), 1.5 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 15 pm, 20 pm, 25 pm, 30 pm, 35 pm, 100 pm, 300 pm, or 500 pm. The pores may be of an average FLS between any of the aforementioned FLS values (e.g., from about Inm to about 500 pm. or from about 20 pm, to about 300 pm). The 3D object (or at least a layer thereof) may have a porosity of at most about 0.05 percent (%), 0.1% 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, 4 %, 5 %, 6 %, 7 %, 8 %, 9%, 10 %, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80%. The 3D object (or at least a layer thereof) may have a porosity of at least about 0.05 %, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, 4 %, 5 %, 6 %, 7 %, 8 %, 9%, 10 %, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, or 80%. The 3D object (or at least a layer thereof) may have porosity between any of the afore-mentioned porosity percentages (e.g., from about 0.05% to about 80%, from about 0.05% to about 40%, from about 10% to about 40%, or from about 40% to about 90%). In some instances, a pore may traverse the generated 3D object. For example, the pore may start at a face of the 3D object and end at the opposing face of the 3D object. The pore may comprise a passageway extending from one face of the 3D object and ending on the opposing face of that 3D object. In some instances, the pore may not traverse the generated 3D object. The pore may form a cavity in the generated 3D object. The pore may form a cavity on a face of the generated 3D object. For example, pore may start on a face of the plane and not extend to the opposing face of that 3D object.

[0238] In some embodiments, the formed plane comprises a protrusion. The protrusion can be a grain, a bulge, a bump, a ridge, or an elevation. The generated 3D object may comprise protrusions. The protrusions may be of an average FLS of at most about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2nm, 3nm, 4nm, 5 nm, lOnm, 15nm, 20nm, 25nm, 30nm, 35nm, lOOnm, 300nm, 500nm, 1 micrometer ( ), 1.5 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 15 pm, 20 pm, 25 pm, 30 pm, 35 pm, 100 pm, 300 pm, 500 pm, or less. The protrusions may be of an average FLS of at least about 1.5 nanometers (nm), 2nm, 3nm, 4mn, 5 nm, lOnm, 15nm, 20mn, 25mn, 30nm, 35nm, lOOnm, 300nm, 500nm, 1 micrometer (pm), 1.5 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 15 pm, 20 pm, 25 pm, 30 pm, 35 pm, 100 pm, 300 pm, 500 pm, or more. The protrusions may be of an average FLS between any of the afore-mentioned FLS values. The protrusions may constitute at most about 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the area of the generated 3D object. The protrusions may constitute at least about 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the area of the 3D object. The protrusions may constitute a percentage of an area of the 3D object that is between the afore-mentioned percentages of 3D object area. The protrusion may reside on any surface of the 3D object. For example, the protrusions may reside on an external surface of a 3D object. The protrusions may reside on an internal surface (e.g., a cavity) of a 3D object. At times, the average size of the protrusions and/or of the holes may determine the resolution of the printed (e.g., generated) 3D object. The resolution of the printed 3D object may be at least about 1 micrometer, 1.3 micrometers (pm), 1.5 pm, 1.8 pm, 1.9 pm, 2.0 pm, 2.2 pm, 2.4 pm, 2.5 pm, 2.6 pm, 2.7 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, 100 pm, 200 pm, or more. The resolution of the printed 3D object may be at most about 1 micrometer, 1.3 micrometers (pm), 1.5 pm, 1.8 pm, 1.9 pm, 2.0 pm, 2.2 pm, 2.4 pm, 2.5 pm, 2.6 pm, 2.7 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm, 5 pm, 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, 100 pin, 200 pm, or less. The resolution of the printed 3D object may be any value between the above- mentioned resolution values. At times, the 3D object may have a material density of at least about 99.9%, 99.8%, 99.7%, 99.6%, 99.5%, 99.4%, 99.3%, 99.2% 99.1%, 99%, 98%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 8%, or 70%. At times, the 3D object may have a material density of at most about 99.5%, 99%, 98%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 8%, or 70%. At times, the 3D object may have a material density between the afore -mentioned material densities. The resolution of the 3D object may be at least about 100 dots per inch (dpi), 300dpi, 600dpi, 1200dpi, 2400dpi, 3600dpi, or 4800dpi. The resolution of the 3D object may be at most about 100 dpi, 300dpi, 600dpi, 1200dpi, 2400dpi, 3600dpi, or 4800dip. The resolution of the 3D object may be any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from 100dpi to 4800dpi, from 300dpi to 2400dpi, or from 600dpi to 4800dpi). The height uniformity (e.g., deviation from average surface height) of a planar surface of the 3D object may be at least about 100 m, 90 pm, 80 pm, 70 pm, 60 pm, 50 pm, 40 pm, 30 pm, 20 pm, 10 pm, or 5 pm. The height uniformity of the planar surface may be at most about 100 pm, 90 pm, 80, 70 pm, 60 pm, 50 pm, 40 pm, 30 pm, 20 pm, 10 pm, or 5 pm. The height uniformity of the planar surface of the 3D object may be any value between the afore-mentioned height deviation values (e.g., from about 100 pm to about 5 pm, from about 50 pun to about 5 pim, from about 30 pun to about 5 pirn, or from about 20 pun to about 5 pm). The height uniformity may comprise high precision uniformity.

[0239] In some embodiments, the energy (e.g., heat) is transferred from the material bed to the cooling member (e.g., heat sink) through any one or combination of heat transfer mechanisms. Fig. 1, 113 shows an example of a cooling member. The heat transfer mechanism may comprise conduction, radiation, or convection. The convection may comprise natural or forced convection. The cooling member can be solid, liquid, gas, or semi-solid. In some examples, the cooling member (e.g., heat sink) is solid. The cooling member may be located above, below, or to the side of the powder layer. The cooling member may comprise an energy conductive material. The cooling member may comprise an active energy transfer or a passive energy transfer. The cooling member may comprise a cooling liquid (e.g., aqueous or oil), cooling gas, or cooling solid. The cooling member may be further connected to a cooler and/or a thermostat. The gas, semi-solid, or liquid comprised in the cooling member may be stationary or circulating. The cooling member may comprise a material that conducts heat efficiently. The heat (thermal) conductivity of the cooling member may be at least about 20 Watts per meters times Kelvin (W/mK), 50 W/mK, 100 W/mK, 150 W/mK, 200 W/mK, 205 W/mK, 300 W/mK, 350 W/mK, 400 W/mK, 450 W/mK, 500 W/mK, 550 W/mK, 600 W/mK, 700 W/mK, 800 W/mK, 900 W/mK, or 1000 W/mK. The heat conductivity of the heat sink may be at most about 20 W/mK, 50 W/mK, 100 W/mK, 150 W/mK, 200 W/mK, 205 W/mK, 300 W/mK, 350 W/mK, 400 W/mK, 450 W/mK, 500 W/mK, 550 W/mK, 600 W/mK, 700 W/mK, 800 W/mK, 900 W/mK, or 1000 W/mK. The heat conductivity' of the heat sink may any value between the aforementioned heat conductivity values. The heat (thermal) conductivity of the cooling member may be measured at ambient temperature (e.g., room temperature) and/or pressure. For example, the heat conductivity may be measured at about 20°C and a pressure of 1 atmosphere. The heat sink can be separated from the powder bed or powder layer by a gap. The gap can be filled with a gas. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components (e.g., cooling member(s)), associated methods of use, systems, software, 3D objects, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, US 15/374,535; International Patent Application serial number PCT/US16/59781 filed on October 31, 2016, titled “ADEPT THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING”; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/339,712 filed October 31 , 201 titled “THREE-DIMENSIONAL PRINTING IN REAL TIME”; each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

[0240] In some embodiments, when the energy source is in operation, the material bed reaches a certain (e.g., average) temperature. The average temperature of the material bed can be an ambient temperature or “room temperature.” The average temperature of the material bed can have an average temperature during the operation of the energy (e.g., beam). The average temperature of the material bed can be an average temperature during the formation of the transformed material, the formation of the hardened material, or the generation of the 3D object. The average temperature can be below or just below the transforming temperature of the material. Just below can refer to a temperature that is at most about 1°C, 2°C, 3°C, 4°C, 5°C, 6°C, 7°C, 8°C, 9°C, 10°C, 15°C, or 20°C below the transforming temperature. The average temperature of the material bed (e.g., pre-transformed material) can be at most about 10°C (degrees Celsius), 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C, 70 °C, 80 °C, 90 °C, 100°C, 120 °C, 140 °C, 150 °C, 160 °C, 180 °C, 200 °C, 250°C, 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C, 600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C, 900 °C, 1000°C, 1200°C, 1400°C, 1600°C, 1800°C, or 2000 °C. The average temperature of the material bed (e.g., pre-transformed material) can be at least about 10°C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, 40 °C, 50°C, 60 °C, 70 °C, 80 °C, 90 °C, 100°C, 120 °C, 140 °C, 150 °C, 160 °C, 180 °C, 200 °C, 250 °C, 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C, 600 °C, 700 °C, 800 °C, 900 °C, 1000°C, 1200°C, 1400°C, 1600°C, 1800°C, or 2000 °C. The average temperature of the material bed (e.g., pre -transformed material) can be any temperature between the afore-mentioned material average temperatures. The average temperature of the material bed (e.g., pre -transformed material) may refer to the average temperature during the 3D printing. The pre-transformed material can be the material within the material bed that has not been transformed and generated at least a portion of the 3D object (e.g., the remainder). The material bed can be heated or cooled before, during, or after forming the 3D object (e.g., hardened material). Bulk heaters can heat the material bed. The bulk heaters can be situated adjacent to (e.g., above, below, or to the side of) the material bed, or within a material dispensing system. For example, the material can be heated using radiators (e g., quartz radiators, or infrared emitters) The material bed temperature can be (e g , substantially) maintained at a predetermined value. The temperature of the material bed can be monitored. The material temperature can be controlled manually and/or by a control system.

[0241] In some examples, the pre-transformed material within the material bed is heated by a first energy source such that the heating will transform the pre-transformed material. The remainder of the material that did not transform to generate at least a portion of the 3D object (e.g., the remainder) can be heated by a second energy source. The remainder can be at an average temperature that is less than the liquefying temperature of the material (e.g., during the 3D printing). The maximum temperature of the transformed portion of the material bed and the average temperature of the remainder of the material bed can be different. The solidus temperature of the material can be a temperature wherein the material is in a solid state at a given pressure (e.g., ambient pressure). Ambient may refer to the surrounding. After the portion of the material bed is heated to the temperature that is at least a liquefying temperature of tire material by the first energy source, that portion of the material may be cooled to allow the transformed (e.g., liquefied) material portion to harden (e.g., solidify). In some cases, the liquefying temperature can be at least about 100°C, 200°C, 300°C, 400°C, or 500°C, and the solidus temperature can be at most about 500°C, 400°C, 300°C, 200°C, or 100°C. For example, the liquefying temperature is at least about 300°C and the solidus temperature is less than about 300°C. In another example, the liquefying temperature is at least about 400°C and the solidus temperature is less than about 400°C. The liquefying temperature may be different from the solidus temperature. In some instances, the temperature of the pre-transformed material is maintained above the solidus temperature of the material and below its liquefying temperature. In some examples, the material from which the pre-transformed material is composed has a super cooling temperature (or super cooling temperature regime). In some examples, as the first energy source heats up the pre-transformed material to cause at least a portion of it to melt, the molten material will remain molten as the material bed is held at or above the material super cooling temperature of the material, but below its melting point. When two or more materials make up the material layer at a specific ratio, the materials may form a eutectic material on transformation of the material. The liquefying temperature of the formed eutectic material may be the temperature at the eutectic point, close to the eutectic point, or far from the eutectic point. Close to the eutectic point may designate a temperature that is different from the eutectic temperature (i.e., temperature at the eutectic point) by at most about 0.1°C, 0.5°C, 1°C, 2°C, 4 °C, 5 °C, 6°C, 8°C, 10°C, or 15°C. A temperature that is farther from the eutectic point than the temperature close to the eutectic point is designated herein as a temperature far from the eutectic Point. The process of liquefying and solidifying a portion of the material can be repeated until the entire object has been formed. At the completion of the generated 3D object, it can be removed from the remainder of material in the container. The remaining material can be separated from the portion at the generated 3D object. The generated 3D object can be hardened and removed from the container (e.g., from the substrate or from the base).

[0242] In some examples, the methods described herein further comprise stabilizing the temperature within the enclosure. For example, stabilizing the temperature of the atmosphere or the pre-transformed material (e.g., within the material bed). Stabilization of the temperature may be to a predetermined temperature value. The methods described herein may further comprise altering the temperature within at least one portion of the container. Alteration of the temperature may be to a predetermined temperature. Alteration of the temperature may comprise heating and/or cooling the material bed. Elevating the temperature (e g., of the material bed) may be to a temperature below the temperature at which the pre-transformed material fuses (e.g., melts or sinters), connects, or bonds.

[0243] In some embodiments, the apparatus and/or systems described herein comprise an optical system. The optical components may be controlled manually and/or via a control system (e.g., a controller). The optical system may be configmed to direct at least one energy beam from the at least one energy source to a position on the material bed within the enclosure (e.g., a predetermined position). A scanner can be included in the optical system. The printing system may comprise a processor (e.g., a central processing unit). The processor can be programmed to control a trajectory of the at least one energy beam and/or energy source with the aid of the optical system. The systems and/or the apparatus described herein can further comprise a control system in communication with the at least one energy source and/or energy beam. The control s stem can regulate a supply of energy from the al least one energy source to the material in the container. The control system may control the various components of the optical system (e.g., Fig. 1, 120). The various components of the optical system (e.g., Fig. 3) may include optical components comprising a mirror (e g., 305), a lens (e g , concave or convex), a fiber, a beam guide, a rotating polygon, or a prism. The lens may be a focusing or a dispersing lens. The lens may be a diverging or converging lens. The mirror can be a deflection mirror. The optical components may be tiltable and/or rotatable. The optical components may be tilted and/or rotated. The mirror may be a deflection mirror. The optical components may comprise an aperture. The aperture may be mechanical. The optical system may comprise a variable focusing device. The variable focusing device may be connected to the control system. The variable focusing device may be controlled by the control system and/or manually. The variable focusing device may comprise a modulator. The modulator may comprise an acousto-optical modulator, mechanical modulator, or an electro optical modulator. The focusing device may comprise an aperture (e.g., a diaphragm aperture). The optical system may comprise an optical window (e.g., 304). Fig. 3 shows an example of an optical system and an energy source 306 that produces an energy beam 307 that travels through the components of the optical system (e.g., 305 and 304) to a target surface 302.

[0244] In some embodiments, the container described herein comprises at least one sensor. The sensor may be connected and/or controlled by the control system (e.g., computer control system, or controller). The control system may be able to receive signals from the at least one sensor. The control system may act upon at least one signal received from the at least one sensor. The control may utilize (e.g., rely on) feedback and/or feed forward mechanisms that has been pre-programmed. The feedback and/or feed forward mechanisms may rely on input from at least one sensor that is connected to the control unit.

|0245| In some embodiments, the sensor detects the amount of material (e.g., pre-transformed material) in the enclosure. The controller may monitor the amount of material in the enclosure (e.g., within the material bed). The systems and/or the apparatus described herein can include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may measure the pressure of the chamber (e.g., pressure of the chamber atmosphere). The pressure sensor can be coupled to a control system. The pressure can be electronically and/or manually controlled. The controller may control (e.g., regulate, maintain, or alter) the pressure (e.g., with the aid of one or more pumps such as vacuum pumps or pressure pumps) according to input from at least one pressure sensor. The sensor may comprise light sensor, image sensor, acoustic sensor, vibration sensor, chemical sensor, electrical sensor, magnetic sensor, fluidity sensor, movement sensor, speed sensor, position sensor, pressure sensor, force sensor, density sensor, metrology sensor, sonic sensor (e.g., ultrasonic sensor), or proximity sensor. The metrology sensor may comprise measurement sensor (e.g., height, length, width, angle, and/or volume). The metrology sensor may comprise a magnetic, acceleration, orientation, or optical sensor. The optical sensor may comprise a camera (e.g., IR camera, or CCD camera (e.g., single line CCD camera)). The sensor may transmit and/or receive sound (e.g., echo), magnetic, electronic, or electromagnetic signal. The electromagnetic signal may comprise a visible, infrared, ultraviolet, ultrasound, radio wave, or microwave signal. The metrology sensor may measure the tile. The metrology sensor may measure the gap. The metrology sensor may measure at least a portion of the layer of material (e.g., pre-transformed, transformed, and/or hardened). The layer of material may be a pre-transformed material (e.g., powder), transformed material, or hardened material. The metrology sensor may measure al least a portion of the 3D object. The sensor may comprise a temperature sensor, weight sensor, powder level sensor, gas sensor, or humidity sensor. The gas sensor may sense any gas enumerated herein. The temperature sensor may comprise Bolometer, Bimetallic strip, Calorimeter, Exhaust gas temperature gauge, Flame detection, Gardon gauge, Golay cell, Heat flux sensor, Infrared thermometer, Microbolometer, Microwave radiometer, Net radiometer, Quartz thermometer, Resistance temperature detector, Resistance thermometer, Silicon band gap temperature sensor, Special sensor microwave/imager, Temperature gauge, Thermistor, Thermocouple, Thermometer, Pyrometer, IR camera, or CCD camera (e.g., single line CCD camera). The temperature sensor may measure the temperature without contacting the material bed (e.g., non-contact measurements). The pyrometer may comprise a point pyrometer, or a multi-point pyrometer. The Infrared (IR) thermometer may comprise an IR camera. The pressure sensor may comprise Barograph, Barometer, Boost gauge, Bourdon gauge, hot filament ionization gauge, Ionization gauge, McLeod gauge, Oscillating U-tube, Permanent Downhole Gauge, Piezometer, Pirani gauge, Pressure sensor, Pressure gauge, tactile sensor, or Time pressure gauge. The position sensor may comprise Auxanometer, Capacitive displacement sensor, Capacitive sensing, Free fall sensor, Gravimeter, Gyroscopic sensor, Impact sensor, Inclinometer, Integrated circuit piezoelectric sensor, Laser rangefinder, Laser surface velocimeter, LIDAR, Linear encoder, Linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), Liquid capacitive inclinometers, Odometer, Photoelectric sensor, Piezoelectric accelerometer, Rate sensor, Rotary encoder, Rotary variable differential transformer, Selsyn, Shock detector, Shock data logger, Tilt sensor, Tachometer, Ultrasonic thickness gauge, Variable reluctance sensor, or Velocity receiver. The optical sensor may comprise a Charge-coupled device, Colorimeter, Contact image sensor, Electro-optical sensor, Infra-red sensor, Kinetic inductance detector, light emitting diode as light sensor, Light-addressable potentiometric sensor, Nichols radiometer, Fiber optic sensors, optical position sensor, photo detector, photodiode, photomultiplier tubes, phototransistor, photoelectric sensor, photoionization detector, photomultiplier, photo resistor, photo switch, phototube, scintillometer, Shack-Hartmann, single-photon avalanche diode, superconducting nanowire single-photon detector, transition edge sensor, visible light photon counter, or wave front sensor. The weight of the enclosure (e.g., container), or any components within the enclosure can be monitored by at least one weight sensor in or adjacent to the material. For example, a weight sensor can be situated at the bottom of the enclosure. The weight sensor can be situated between the bottom of the enclosure and the substrate The weight sensor can be situated between the substrate and the base. The weight sensor can be situated between the bottom of the container and the base. The weight sensor can be situated between the bottom of the container and the top of the material bed. The weight sensor can comprise a pressure sensor. The weight sensor may comprise a spring scale, a hydraulic scale, a pneumatic scale, or a balance. At least a portion of the pressure sensor can be exposed on a bottom of the container. In some cases, the at least one weight sensor can comprise a button load cell. Alternatively, or additionally a sensor can be configured to monitor the weight of the material by monitoring a weight of a structure that contains the material (e.g., a material bed). One or more position sensors (e.g., height sensors) can measure the height of the material bed relative to the substrate. The position sensors can be optical sensors. The position sensors can determine a distance betw een one or more energy sources and a surface of die material bed. The surface of the material bed can be the upper surface of the material bed. For example, Fig. 1, 119 shows an example of an upper surface of the material bed 104.

[0246] In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatus described herein comprise at least one valve. The valve may be shut or opened according to an input from the at least one sensor, or manually. The degree of valve opening or shutting may be regulated by the control system, for example, according to at least one input from at least one sensor. The systems and/or the apparatus described herein can include one or more valves, such as throttle valves.

[0247] In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatus described herein comprise an actuator. In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatus described herein comprise a motor. The motor may be controlled by the control system and/or manually. The apparatuses and/or systems described herein may include a system providing the material (e.g., powder material) to the material bed. The system for providing the material may be controlled by the control system, or manually. The motor may connect to a system providing the material (e.g., powder material) to the material bed. The system and/or apparatus of the present disclosure may comprise a material reservoir. The material may travel from die reservoir to the system and/or apparatus of the present disclosure may comprise a material reservoir. The material may travel from the reservoir to the system for providing the material to the material bed. The motor may alter (e.g., the position of) the substrate and/or to the base. The motor may alter (e.g., the position of) the elevator. The motor may alter an opening of the enclosure (e.g., its opening or closure). The motor may be a step motor or a servomotor. The motor may comprise a stepper motor. The methods, systems and/or the apparatus described herein may comprise a piston. The piston may be a trunk, crosshead, slipper, or deflector piston.

[0248] In some embodiments, the systems and/or the apparatus described herein comprise at least one nozzle. The nozzle may be regulated according to at least one input from at least one sensor. The nozzle may be controlled automatically or manually. The controller may control the nozzle. The nozzle may include jet (e.g., gas jet) nozzle, high velocity nozzle, propelling nozzle, magnetic nozzle, spray nozzle, vacuum nozzle, or shaping nozzle (e.g., a die). The nozzle can be a convergent or a divergent nozzle. The spray nozzle may comprise an atomizer nozzle, an air-aspirating nozzle, or a swirl nozzle.

[0249] In some embodiments, the systems and/or the apparatus described herein comprise at least one pump. The pump may be regulated according to at least one input from at least one sensor. The pump may be controlled automatically or manually. The controller may control the pump. The one or more pumps may comprise a positive displacement pump. The positive displacement pump may comprise rotary -type positive displacement pump, reciprocating-type positive displacement pump, or linear -type positive displacement pump. The positive displacement pump may comprise rotary lobe pump, progressive cavity pump, rotary gear pump, piston pump, diaphragm pump, screw pump, gear pump, hydraulic pump, rotary vane pump, regenerative (peripheral) pump, peristaltic pump, rope pump or flexible impeller. Rotary positive displacement pump may comprise gear pump, screw pump, or rotary vane pump. The reciprocating pump comprises plunger pump, diaphragm pump, piston pumps displacement pumps, or radial piston pump. The pump may comprise a valve-less pump, steam pump, gravity pump, eductor-jet pump, mixed-flow pump, bellow pump, axial-flow pumps, radial-flow pump, velocity pump, hydraulic ram pump, impulse pump, rope pump, compressed-air-powered double-diaphragm pump, triplex-style plunger pump, plunger pump, peristaltic pump, roots-type pumps, progressing cavity pump, screw pump, or gear pump. In some examples, the systems and/or the apparatus described herein include one or more vacuum pumps selected from mechanical pumps, rotary vain pumps, turbomolecular pumps, ion pumps, cryopumps, and diffusion pumps. The one or more vacuum pumps may comprise Rotary vane pump, diaphragm pump, liquid ring pump, piston pump, scroll pump, screw pump, Wankel pump, external vane pump, roots blower, multistage Roots pump, Toepier pump, or Lobe pump. The one or more vacuum pumps may comprise momentum transfer pump, regenerative pump, entrapment pump, Venturi vacuum pump, or team ejector.

[0250] In some embodiments, the systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof comprise a communication technology. The systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise Bluetooth technology. The systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise a communication port. The communication port may be a serial port or a parallel port. The communication port may be a Universal Serial Bus port (i.e., USB). The systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise USB ports. The USB can be micro or mini-USB. The USB port may relate to device classes comprising OOh, Olh, 02h, 03h, 05h, 06h, 07h, 08h, 09h, OAh, OBh, ODh, OEh, OFh, lOh, l lh, DCh, EOh, EFh, FEh, or FFh. The surface identification mechanism may comprise a plug and/or a socket (e.g., electrical, AC power, DC power). The systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise an adapter (e.g., AC and/or DC power adapter). The systems, apparatuses, and/or parts thereof may comprise a power connector. The power connector can be an electrical power connector. The power connector may comprise a magnetically attached power connector. The power connector can be a dock connector. The connector can be a data and power connector. The connector may comprise pins. The connector may comprise at least 10, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 40, 42, 45, 50, 55, 80, or 100 pins.

In some embodiments, the controller monitors and/or directs (e.g., physical) alteration of the operating conditions of the apparatuses, software, and/or methods described herein. The controller may be a manual or a non-manual controller. The controller may be an automatic controller. The controller may operate upon request. The controller may be a programmable controller. The controller may be programed. The controller may comprise a processing unit (e g., CPU or GPU) The controller may receive an input (e g., from a sensor). The controller may deliver an output. The controller may comprise multiple controllers. The controller may receive multiple inputs. The controller may generate multiple outputs. The controller may be a single input single output controller (SISO) or a multiple input multiple output controller (MIMO). The controller may interpret the input signal received. The controller may acquire data from the one or more sensors. Acquire may comprise receive or extract. The data may comprise measurement, estimation, determination, generation, or any combination thereof. The controller may comprise a control scheme including feedback control. The controller may comprise feed-forw ard control. The control may comprise on-off control, proportional control, proportional-integral (PI) control, or proportional-intcgral-dcrivativc (PID) control. The control may comprise open loop control, or closed loop control. The controller may comprise closed loop control. The controller may comprise open loop control. The controller may comprise a user interface. The user interface may comprise a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, speech recognition package, camera, imaging s stem, or any combination thereof. The outputs may include a display (e.g., screen), speaker, or printer. Examples of 3D printing systems, their components (e.g., controller(s)), associated methods of use, systems, software, 3D objects, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US 15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, US15/374,535;

PCT/US 16/59781; US15/339,712; PCT/US 16/34857; US15/808,777; PCT/US17/18191; and US15/435,090; each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0251] In some embodiments, the methods, systems, and/or the apparatus described herein further comprise a control system. The control system can be in communication with one or more energy sources and/or energy (e.g., energy beams). The energy sources may be of the same type or of different types. For example, the energy sources can be both lasers, or a laser and an electron beam. For example, the control system may be in communication with the first energy and/or with the second energy. The control system may regulate the one or more energies (e.g., energy beams). The control system may regulate the energy supplied by the one or more energy sources. For example, the control system may regulate the energy supplied by a first energy beam and by a second energy beam, to the pre-transformed material within tire material bed. The control system may regulate the position of the one or more energy beams. For example, the control system may regulate the position of the first energy beam and/or the position of the second energy beam.

[0252] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises a processor. The processor may be a processing unit. The controller may comprise a processing unit. The processing unit may be central. The processing unit may comprise a central processing unit (herein “CPU”). The controllers or control mechanisms (e.g., comprising a computer system) may be programmed to implement methods of the disclosure. The processor (e.g., 3D printer processor) may be programmed to implement methods of the disclosure. The controller may control at least one component of the systems and/or apparatuses disclosed herein. Fig. 4 is a schematic example of a computer system 400 that is programmed or otherwise configured to facilitate the formation of a 3D object according to the methods provided herein. The computer system 400 can control (e.g., direct, monitor, and/or regulate) various features of printing methods, apparatuses and systems of the present disclosure, such as, for example, control force, translation, heating, cooling and/or maintaining the temperature of a powder bed, process parameters (e.g., chamber pressure), scanning rate (e g., of the energy beam and/or the platform), scanning route of the energy source, position and/or temperature of the cooling member(s), application of the amount of energy emitted to a selected location, or any combination thereof. The computer system 400 can be part of, or be in communication with, a 3D printing system or apparatus. The computer may be coupled to one or more mechanisms disclosed herein, and/or any parts thereof. For example, the computer may be coupled to one or more sensors, valves, switches, motors, pumps, scanners, optical components, or any combination thereof.

[0253] In some embodiments, the computer system 400 includes a processing unit 406 (also “processor,” “computer” and “computer processor” used herein). The computer system may include memory or memory location 402 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 404 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 403 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 405, such as cache, other memory, data storage and/or electronic display adapters. The memory 402, storage unit 404, interface 403, and peripheral devices 405 are in communication with the processing unit 406 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system can be operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 401 with the aid of the communication interface. The network can be the Internet, an internet and/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is in communication with the Internet. In some cases, the network is a telecommunication and/or data netw ork. The network can include one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network, in some cases with the aid of the computer system, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system to behave as a client or a server.

[0254] In some embodiments, the processing unit executes a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 402. The instructions can be directed to the processing unit, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the processing unit to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the processing unit can include fetch, decode, execute, and write back. The processing unit may interpret and/or execute instructions. The processor may include a microprocessor, a data processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphical processing unit (GPU), a system-on-chip (SOC), a co-processor, a network processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application specific instruction-set processor (ASIPs), a controller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a chipset, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof. The processing unit can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the computer system 400 can be included in the circuit.

10255| In some embodiments, the storage unit 404 stores files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit can store user data (e.g., user preferences and user programs). In some cases, the computer system can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system through an intranet or the Internet.

[0256] In some embodiments, the computer system communicates with one or more remote computer systems through a network. For instance, the computer system can communicate with a remote computer system of a user (e g., operator). Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC’s (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry ®), or personal digital assistants. A user (e.g., client) can access the computer system via the network.

[0257] In some examples, the methods as described herein are implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system, such as, for example, on the memory 402 or electronic storage unit 404. The machine executable or machine- readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the processing unit 406 can execute the code. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit and stored on the memory for ready access by the processor. In some situations, the electronic storage unit can be precluded, and machineexecutable instructions are stored on memory. [0258] In some embodiments, the code is pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine that has a processor adapted to execute the code, or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a pre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

[0259] In some embodiments, the processing unit includes one or more cores. The computer system may comprise a single core processor, multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The processing unit may comprise one or more central processing unit (CPU) and/or a graphic processing unit (GPU). The multiple cores may be disposed in a physical unit (e.g., Central Processing Unit, or Graphic Processing Unit). The processing unit may include one or more processing units. The physical unit may be a single physical unit. The physical unit may be a die. The physical unit may comprise cache coherency circuitry. The multiple cores may be disposed in close proximity. The physical unit may comprise an integrated circuit chip. The integrated circuit chip may comprise one or more transistors. The integrated circuit chip may comprise at least about 0.2 billion transistors (BT), 0.5 BT, 1BT, 2 BT, 3 BT, 5 BT, 6 BT, 7 BT, 8 BT, 9 BT, 10 BT, 15 BT, 20 BT, 25 BT, 30 BT, 40 BT, or 50 BT. The integrated circuit chip may comprise at most about 7 BT, 8 BT, 9 BT, 10 BT, 15 BT, 20 BT, 25 BT, 30 BT, 40 BT, 50 BT, 70 BT, or 100 BT. The integrated circuit chip may comprise any number of transistors between the afore-mentioned numbers (e.g., from about 0.2 BT to about 100 BT, from about 1 BT to about 8 BT, from about 8 BT to about 40 BT, or from about 40 BT to about 100 BT). The integrated circuit chip may have an area of at least about 50 mm ² , 60 mm ² , 70 mm ² , 80 mm ² , 90 mm ² , 100 mm ² , 200 mm ² , 300 mm ² , 400 mm ² , 500 mm ² , 600 mm ² , 700 mm ² , or 800 mm ² . The integrated circuit chip may have an area of at most about 50 mm ² , 60 mm ² , 70 mm ² , 80 mm ² , 90 mm ² , 100 mm ² , 200 mm ² , 300 mm ² , 400 mm ² , 500 mm ² , 600 mm ² , 700 mm ² , or 800 mm ² . The integrated circuit chip may have an area of any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 mm ² to about 800 mm ² , from about 50 mm ² to about 500 mm ² , or from about 500 mm ² to about 800 mm ² ). The close proximity may allow substantial preservation of communication signals that travel between the cores. The close proximity may diminish communication signal degradation. A core as understood herein is a computing component having independent central processing capabilities. The computing system may comprise a multiplicity of cores, which are disposed on a single computing component. The multiplicity of cores may include two or more independent central processing units. The independent central processing units may constitute a unit that read and execute program instructions. The independent central processing units may constitute parallel processing units. The parallel processing units may be cores and/or digital signal processing slices (DSP slices). The multiplicity of cores can be parallel cores. The multiplicity of DSP slices can be parallel DSP slices. The multiplicity of cores and/or DSP slices can function in parallel. The multiplicity of cores may include at least about 2, 10, 40, 100, 400, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 11000, 12000, 13000, 14000 or 15000 cores. The multiplicity of cores may include at most about 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 11000, 12000, 13000, 14000, 15000, 20000, 30000, or 40000 cores. The multiplicity of cores may include cores of any number between the afore-mentioned numbers (e.g., from about 2 to about 40000, from about 2 to about 400, from about 400 to about 4000, from about 2000 to about 4000, from about 4000 to about 10000, from about 4000 to about 15000, or from about 15000 to about 40000 cores). In some processors (e.g., FPGA), the cores may be equivalent to multiple digital signal processor (DSP) slices (e.g., slices). The plurality of DSP slices may be equal to any of plurality core values mentioned herein. The processor may comprise low latency in data transfer (e.g., from one core to another). Latency may refer to the time delay between the cause and the effect of a physical change in the processor (e g., a signal). Latency may refer to the time elapsed from the source (e.g., first core) sending a packet to the destination (e.g., second core) receiving it (also referred as two-point latency). One-point latency may refer to the time elapsed from the source (e.g., first core) sending a packet (e.g., signal) to the destination (e.g., second core) receiving it, and the designation sending a packet back to the source (e.g., the packet making a round trip). The latency may be sufficiently low to allow a high number of floating-point operations per second (FLOPS). The number of FLOPS may be at least about 0.1 Tera FLOPS (T-FLOPS), 0.2 T-FLOPS, 0.25 T- FLOPS, 0.5 T-FLOPS, 0.75 T-FLOPS, 1 T-FLOPS, 2 T-FLOPS, 3 T-FLOPS, 5 T-FLOPS, 6 T-FLOPS, 7 T-FLOPS, 8 T-FLOPS, 9 T-FLOPS, or 10 T-FLOPS. The number of flops may be at most about 0.2 T- FLOPS, 0.25 T-FLOPS, 0.5 T-FLOPS, 0.75 T-FLOPS, 1 T-FLOPS, 2 T-FLOPS, 3 T-FLOPS, 5 T-FLOPS, 6 T-FLOPS, 7 T-FLOPS, 8 T-FLOPS, 9 T-FLOPS, 10 T-FLOPS, 20 T-FLOPS, 30 T-FLOPS, 50 T-FLOPS, 100 T- FLOPS, 1 P-FLOPS, 2 P-FLOPS, 3 P-FLOPS, 4 P-FLOPS, 5 P-FLOPS, 10 P-FLOPS, 50 P-FLOPS, 100 P-FLOPS, 1 EXA-FLOP, 2 EXA-FLOPS, or 10 EXA-FLOPS. The number of FLOPS may be any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 0.1 T-FLOP to about 10 EXA-FLOPS, from about 0.1 T-FLOPS to about 1 T-FLOPS, from about 1 T-FLOPS to about 4 T-FLOPS, from about 4 T- FLOPS to about 10 T-FLOPS, from about 1 T-FLOPS to about 10 T-FLOPS, or from about 10 T-FLOPS to about 30 T-FLOPS, from about 50 T-FLOPS to about 1 EXA-FLOP, or from about 0.1 T-FLOP to about 10 EXA-FLOPS). In some processors (e g., FPGA), the operations per second may be measured as (e.g., Giga) multiply-accumulate operations per second (e.g., MACs or GMACs). The MACs value can be equal to any of the T-FLOPS values mentioned herein measured as Tera-MACs (T-MACs) instead of T-FLOPS respectively. The FLOPS can be measured according to a benchmark. The benchmark may be a HPC Challenge Benchmark. The benchmark may comprise mathematical operations (e g., equation calculation such as linear equations), graphical operations (e.g., rendering), or encryption/decryption benchmark. The benchmark may comprise a High Performance L1NPACK, matrix multiplication (e g., DGEMM), sustained memory bandwidth to/from memory (e g., STREAM), array transposing rate measurement (e g., PTRANS), Random-access, rate of Fast Fourier Transform (e.g., on a large one-dimensional vector using the generalized Cooley-Tukey algorithm), or Communication Bandwidth and Latency (e.g., MPI-centric performance measurements based on the effective bandwidth/latency benchmark). UNPACK may refer to a software library for performing numerical linear algebra on a digital computer. DGEMM may refer to double precision general matrix multiplication. STREAM benchmark may refer to a synthetic benchmark designed to measure sustainable memory bandwidth (in MB/s) and a corresponding computation rate for four simple vector kernels (Copy, Scale, Add and Triad). PTRANS benchmark may refer to a rate measurement at which the system can transpose a large array (global). MPI refers to Message Passing Interface.

[0260] In some embodiments, die computer system includes hyper-threading technology. The computer s stem may include a chip processor with integrated transform, lighting, triangle setup, triangle clipping, rendering engine, or any combination thereof. The rendering engine may be capable of processing at least about 10 million polygons per second. The rendering engines may be capable of processing at least about 10 million calculations per second. As an example, the GPU may include a GPU by NVidia, ATI Technologies, S3 Graphics, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), or Matrox. The processing unit may be able to process a computational scheme comprising a matrix or a vector. The core may comprise a complex instruction set computing core (CISC), or reduced instruction set computing (RISC).

[0261] In some embodiments, the computer system includes an electronic chip that is reprogrammable (e.g., field programmable gate array (FPGA)). For example, the FPGA may comprise Tabula, Altera, or Xilinx FPGA. The electronic chips may comprise one or more programmable logic blocks (e.g., an array). The logic blocks may compute combinational functions, logic gates, or any combination thereof. The computer system may include custom hardware. The custom hardware may comprise a computational scheme.

[0262] In some embodiments, tire computer system includes configurable computing, partially reconfigurable computing, reconfigurable computing, or any combination thereof. The computer system may include a FPGA. The computer system may include an integrated circuit that performs the computational scheme. For example, the reconfigurable computing system may comprise FPGA, CPU, GPU, or multi-core microprocessors. The reconfigurable computing system may comprise a High- Performance Reconfigurable Computing architecture (HPRC). The partially reconfigurable computing may include module-based partial reconfiguration, or difference-based partial reconfigmation. The FPGA may comprise configurable FPGA logic, and/or fixed-function hardware comprising multipliers, memories, microprocessor cores, first in-first out (FIFO) and/or error correcting code (ECC) logic, digital signal processing (DSP) blocks, peripheral Component interconnect express (PCI Express) controllers, Ethernet media access control (MAC) blocks, or high-speed serial transceivers. DSP blocks can be DSP slices.

[0263] In some embodiments, the computing system includes an integrated circuit that performs the computational scheme (e.g., control algorithm). The physical unit (e.g., the cache coherency circuitry within) may have a clock time of at least about 0.1 Gigabits per second (Gbit/s), 0.5 Gbit/s, 1 Gbit/s, 2 Gbit/s, 5 Gbit/s, 6 Gbit/s, 7 Gbit/s, 8 Gbit/s, 9 Gbit/s, 10 Gbit/s, or 50 Gbit/s. The physical unit may have a clock time of any value between the afore-mentioned values (e g , from about 0 1 Gbit/s to about 50 Gbit/s, or from about 5 Gbit/s to about 10 Gbit/s). The physical unit may produce the computational scheme output in at most about 0.1 microsecond (|is), 1 s, lOps, lOOps, or 1 millisecond (ms). The physical unit may produce the computational scheme output in any time between the above-mentioned times (e.g., from about 0.1 ps, to about 1 ms, from about 0.1 ps, to about 100 ps, or from about 0. I ps to about I Ops).

[0264] In some instances, the controller uses calculations, real time measurements, or any combination thereof to regulate the energy beam(s). The sensor (e.g., temperature and/or positional sensor) may provide a signal (e.g., input for the controller and/or processor) at a rate of at least about 0. IKHz, IKHz, lOKHz, lOOKHz, lOOOKHz, or lOOOOKHz). The sensor may provide a signal at a rate between any of the above- mentioned rates (e.g., from about O.lKHz to about lOOOOKHz, from about O.lKHz to about lOOOKHz, or from about 1000 KHz to about lOOOOKHz). The memory bandwidth of the processing unit may be at least about 1 gigabyte per second (Gbytes/s), 10 Gbytes/s, 100 Gbytes/s, 200 Gbytes/s, 300 Gbytes/s, 400 Gbytes/s, 500 Gbytes/s, 600 Gbytes/s, 700 Gbytes/s, 800 Gbytes/s, 900 Gbytes/s, or 1000 Gbytes/s. The memory bandwidth of the processing unit may be at most about 1 gigabyte per second (Gbytes/s), 10 Gbytes/s, 100 Gbytes/s, 200 Gbytes/s, 300 Gbytes/s, 400 Gbytes/s, 500 Gbytes/s, 600 Gbytes/s, 700 Gbytes/s, 800 Gbytes/s, 900 Gbytes/s, or 1000 Gbytes/s. The memory bandwidth of the processing unit may have any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 1 Gbytes/s to about 1000 Gbytes/s, from about 100 Gbytes/s to about 500 Gbytes/s, from about 500 Gbytes/s to about 1000 Gbytes/s, or from about 200 Gbytes/s to about 400 Gbytes/s). The sensor measurements may be real-time measurements. The real-time measurements may be conducted during the 3D printing process. The real-time measurements may be in situ measurements in the 3D printing system and/or apparatus, the real-time measurements may be during the formation of the 3D object. In some instances, the processing unit may use the signal obtained from the at least one sensor to provide a processing unit output, which output is provided by the processing system at a speed of at most about lOOmin, 50min, 25min, 15min, lOmin, 5min, Imin, 0.5min (i.e., 30sec), 15sec, lOsec, 5sec, Isec, 0.5sec, 0.25sec, 0.2sec, O. lsec, 80 milliseconds (msec), 50msec, 10msec, 5msec, 1 msec, 80 microseconds (p.sec), 50 psec, 20 psec, 10 psec, 5 psec, or 1 psec. In some instances, the processing unit may use the signal obtained from the at least one sensor to provide a processing unit output, which output is provided at a speed of any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 100 min to about 1 psec, from about 100 min to about 10 min, from about 10 min to about 1 min, from about 5min to about 0.5 min, from about 30 sec to about 0.1 sec, from about 0.1 sec to about 1 msec, from about 80 msec to about 10 psec, from about 50 psec to about 1 psec, from about 20 psec to about 1 psec, or from about 10 psec to about 1 psec).

[0265] In some embodiments, the processing unit computes an output. The processing unit output may comprise an evaluation of the temperature at a location, position at a location (e.g., vertical, and/or horizontal), or a map of locations. The location may be on the target surface. The map may comprise a topological or temperature map. The temperature sensor may comprise a temperature imaging device (e.g., IR imaging device).

[0266] In some embodiments, the processing unit uses the signal obtained from the al least one sensor in a computational scheme used in controlling the energy beam. The computational scheme may comprise the path of the energy beam. In some instances, the computational scheme may be used to alter the path of the energy beam on the target surface. The path may deviate from a cross section of a model corresponding to the requested 3D object. The processing unit may use the output in a computational scheme that is used in determining the manner in which a model of the requested 3D object may be sliced. The processing unit may use the signal obtained from the at least one sensor in a computational scheme that is used to configure one or more parameters and/or apparatuses relating to the 3D printing process. The parameters may comprise a characteristic of the energy beam. The parameters may comprise movement of the platform and/or material bed. The parameters may comprise relative movement of the energy beam and the material bed. In some instances, the energy beam, the platform (e.g., material bed disposed on the platform), or both may translate. The controller may use historical data for the control. The processing unit may use historical data in its one or more computational schemes. The parameters may comprise the height of the layer of powder material disposed in the enclosure and/or the gap by which the cooling element (e.g., heat sink) is separated from the target surface. The target surface may be the exposed layer of the material bed.

[0267] In some examples, aspects of the systems, apparatuses, and/or methods provided herein, such as the computer system, are embodied in programming (e g., using a software). Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as “product,” “object,” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code and/or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine- readable medium. Machine -executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. The storage may comprise nonvolatile storage media. “Storage” type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, external drives, and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming.

[0268] In some embodiments, the memory comprises a random-access memory (RAM), dynamic randomaccess memory (DRAM), static random-access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), read only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, or any combination thereof. The flash memory may comprise a negative-AND (NAND) or NOR logic gates. A NAND gate (negative-AND) may be a logic gate which produces an output which is false only if all its inputs are true. The output of the NAND gate may be complemented to that of the AND gate. The storage may include a hard disk (e g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, a solid-state disk, etc.), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and/or another type of computer-readable medium, along with a corresponding drive.

[0269] In some examples, the portions of the software include communication. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links, or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution. Hence, a machine-readable medium, such as computer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium, or physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases. Volatile storage media can include dynamic memory, such as main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media can include coaxial cables, wire (e.g., copper wire), and/or fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or links transporting such a carrier wave, any other medium from which a computer may read programming code and/or data, or any combination thereof. The memory and/or storage may comprise a storing device external to and/or removable from device, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory stick, or/and a hard disk. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

[0270] In some embodiments, tire computer system includes or is in communication with an electronic display that comprises a user interface (UI) for providing, for example, a model design or graphical representation of a 3D object to be printed. Examples of UI’s include, without limitation, a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface. The computer system can monitor and/or control various aspects of the 3D printing system. The control may be manual and/or programmed. The control may utilize (e.g., rely on) a feedback mechanism (e.g., from the one or more sensors). The control may utilize (e.g., rely on) historical data. The feedback mechanism (e.g., feedback control scheme) may be pre-programmed. The feedback mechanisms may rely on input from sensors (described herein) that are connected to the control unit (i.e., control system or control mechanism e.g., computer) and/or processing unit. The computer system may store historical data concerning various aspects of the operation of the 3D printing system. The historical data may be retrieved at predetermined times and/or at a whim. The historical data may be accessed by an operator and/or by a user. The historical, sensor, and/or operative data may be provided in an output unit such as a display unit. The output unit (e.g., monitor) may output various parameters of the 3D printing system (as described herein) in real time or in a delayed time. The output unit may output the current 3D printed object, the ordered 3D printed object, or both. The output unit may output the printing progress of the 3D printed object The output unit may output at least one of the total time, time remaining, and time expanded on printing the 3D object. The output unit may output (e.g., display, voice, and/or print) the status of sensors, their reading, and/or time for their calibration or maintenance. The output unit may output the type of material(s) used and various characteristics of the material(s) such as temperature and flowability of the pre-transformed material. The output unit may output the amount of oxygen, water, and pressure in the printing chamber (i.e., the chamber where the 3D object is being printed). The computer may generate a report comprising various parameters of the 3D printing system, method, and or objects at predetermined timc(s), on a request (e.g., from an operator), and/or at a whim. The output unit may comprise a screen, printer, or speaker. The control system may provide a report. The report may comprise any items recited as optionally output by the output unit.

[0271] In some embodiments, the system and/or apparatus described herein (e.g., controller) and/or any of their components comprises an output and/or an input device. The input device may comprise a keyboard, touch pad, or microphone. The output device may be a sensory output device. The output device may include a visual, tactile, or audio device. The audio device may include a loudspeaker. The visual output device may include a screen and/or a printed hard copy (e.g., paper). The output device may include a printer. The input device may include a camera, a microphone, a keyboard, or a touch screen.

[0272] In some embodiments, the computer system includes, or is in communication with, an electronic display unit that comprises a user interface (UI) for providing, for example, a model design or graphical representation of an object to be printed. Examples of UI’s include a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface. The historical and/or operative data may be displayed on a display unit. The computer system may store historical data concerning various aspects of the operation of the cleaning system. The historical data may be retrieved at predetermined times and/or at a whim. The historical data may be accessed by an operator and/or by a user. The display unit (c.g., monitor) may display various parameters of the printing system (as described herein) in real time or in a delayed time. The display unit may display the requested printed 3D object (e.g., according to a model), the printed 3D object, real time display of the 3D object as it is being printed, or any combination thereof. The display unit may display the cleaning progress of the object, or various aspects thereof. The display unit may display at least one of the total time, time remaining, and time expanded on the cleaned object during the cleaning process. The display unit may display the status of sensors, their reading, and/or time for their calibration or maintenance. The display unit may display the type or types of material used and various characteristics of the material or materials such as temperature and flowability of the pre-transformed material. The particulate material that did not transform to form the 3D object (e.g., the remainder) disposed in the material bed may be flowable (e.g., during the 3D printing process). The display unit may display the amount of a certain gas in the chamber. The gas may comprise oxygen, hydrogen, water vapor, or any of the gasses mentioned herein. The display unit may display the pressure in the chamber. The computer may generate a report comprising various parameters of the methods, objects, apparatuses, or systems described herein. The report may be generated at predetermined time(s), on a request (e.g., from an operator) or at a whim.

[0273] In some examples, the methods, apparatuses, and/or systems of the present disclosure are implemented by way of one or more computational schemes (e g., comprising algorithms). A computational scheme can be implemented by way of software upon execution by one or more computer processors. For example, the processor can be programmed to calculate the path of the energy beam and/or the power per unit area emitted by the energy source (e.g., that should be provided to the material bed in order to achieve the requested result). Examples of 3D printing systems, their components (e.g., controller(s)), associated methods of use, systems, software (e.g., including computational schemes such as algorithms), 3D objects, and apparatuses, can be found in PCT/US15/36802, US14/744,955, PCT/US 16/66000, US15/374,535; PCT/US 16/59781; US15/339,712; PCT/US 16/34857; US15/808,777; PCT/US17/18191; and US15/435,090; each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0274] In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises and/or communicates with a multiplicity of processors. The processors may fonn a network architecture. Examples of processor architectures are shown in Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows an example of a 3D printer 502 comprising a processor that is in communication with a local processor (e.g., desktop) 501, a remote processor 504, and a machine interface 503. The 3D printer interface is termed herein as “machine interface .” The communication of the 3D printer processor with the remote processor and/or machine interface may or may not be through a server. The server may be integrated within the 3D printer. The machine interface may be integrated with, or closely situated adjacent to, the 3D printer 502. Arrows 511 and 513 designate local communications. Arrow 514 designates communicating through a firewall (shown as a discontinuous line). A plurality of 3D printers may be in communication with a server. The server may be external to the 3D printers. The 3D printer(s) may be in communication with one or more machine interfaces. The machine interface may be adjacent to (e.g., integrated in) the 3D printer. The machine interface may be distant from the 3D printer. A machine interface may communicate directly or indirectly with the 3D printer processor. A 3D printing processor may comprise a plurality of machine interfaces. Any of the machine interfaces may be optionally included in the 3D printing system. The communication between the 3D printer processor and the machine interface processor may be unidirectional (e.g., from the machine interface processor to the 3D printer processor), or bidirectional. The 3D printer processor may be connected directly or indirectly to one or more stationary processors (e.g., desktop). The 3D printer processor may be connected directly or indirectly to one or more mobile processors (e.g., mobile device). The 3D printer processor may be connected directly or indirectly (e.g., through a server) to processors that direct 3D printing instructions. The connection may be local or remote. The 3D printer processor may communicate with at least one 3D printing monitoring processor. The 3D printing processor may be owned by the entity supplying the printing instruction to the 3D printer, or by a client. The client may be an entity or person that requests at least one 3D printing object.

[0275] In some embodiments, the 3D printer comprises at least one processor (referred herein as the “3D printer processor”). The 3D printer may comprise a plurality of processors. At least two of the plurality of the 3D printer processors may interact with each other. At times, at least two of the plurality of the 3D printer processors may not interact with each other.

[0276] In some embodiments, a 3D printer processor interacts with at least one processor that acts as a 3D printer interface (also referred to herein as “machine interface processor”). The processor (e.g., machine interface processor) may be stationary or mobile. The processor may be a remote computer system. The machine interface one or more processors may be connected to at least one 3D printer processor. The connection may be through a wire (e g., cable) or be wireless (e.g., via Bluetooth technology). The machine interface may be hardwired to the 3D printer. The machine interface may directly connect to the 3D printer (e.g., to the 3D printer processor). The machine interface may indirectly connect to the 3D printer (e.g., through a server, or through wireless communication). The cable may comprise coaxial cable, shielded twisted cable pair, unshielded twisted cable pair, structured cable (e.g., used in structured cabling), or fiberoptic cable.

[0277] In some embodiments, the machine interface processor directs 3D print job production, 3D printer management, 3D printer monitoring, or any combination thereof. The machine interface processor may not be able to influence (e.g., direct, or be involved in) pre-print or 3D printing process development. The machine management may comprise controlling the 3D printer controller (e.g., directly, or indirectly). The printer controller may direct start of a 3D printing process, stopping a 3D printing process, maintenance of the 3D printer, clearing alarms (e.g., concerning safety features of the 3D printer). [0278] In some embodiments, the machine interface processor allows monitoring of the 3D printing process (e.g., accessible remotely or locally). The machine interface processor may allow viewing a log of the 3D printing and status of the 3D printer at a certain time (e.g., 3D printer snapshot). The machine interface processor may allow to monitor one or more 3D printing parameters. The one or more printing parameters monitored by the machine interface processor can comprise 3D printer status (e.g., 3D printer is idle, preparing to 3D print, 3D printing, maintenance, fault, or offline), active 3D printing (e.g., including a build module number), status and/or position of build module(s), status of build module and processing chamber engagement, type and status of pre-transformed material used in the 3D printing (e.g., amount of pre-transformed material remaining in the reservoir), status of a filter, atmosphere status (e.g., pressure, gas level(s)), ventilator status, layer dispensing mechanism status (e.g., position, speed, rate of deposition, level of exposed layer of the material bed), status of the optical system (e.g., optical window, mirror), status of scanner, alarm (, boot log, status change, safety events, motion control commands (e.g., of the energy beam, or of the layer dispensing mechanism), or printed 3D object status (e.g., what layer number is being printed),

[0279] In some embodiments, the machine interface processor allow s monitoring the 3D print job management. The 3D print job management may comprise status of each build module (e.g., atmosphere condition, position in the enclosure, position in a queue to go in the enclosure, position in a queue to engage with the processing chamber, position in queue for further processing, power levels of the energy beam, ty pe of pre-transformed material loaded, 3D printing operation diagnostics, status of a filter. The machine interface processor (e.g., output device thereof) may allow viewing and/or editing any of the job management and/or one or more printing parameters. The machine interface processor may show the permission level given to the user (e.g., view, or edit). The machine interface processor may allow viewing and/or assigning a certain 3D object to a particular build module, prioritize 3D objects to be printed, pause 3D objects during 3D printing, delete 3D objects to be printed, select a certain 3D printer for a particular 3D printing job, insert and/or edit considerations for restarting a 3D printing job that was removed from 3D printer. The machine interface processor may allow initiating, pausing, and/or stopping a 3D printing job. The machine interface processor may output message notification (e g., alarm), log (e g., other than Excursion log or other default log), or any combination thereof.

[0280] In some embodiments, the 3D printer interacts with at least one server (e.g., print server). The 3D print server may be separate or interrelated in the 3D printer.

[0281] In some embodiments, one or more users interact with the one or more 3D printing processors through one or more user processors (e.g., respectively). The interaction may be in parallel and/or sequentially. The users may be clients. The users may belong to entities that request 3D object(s) to be printed, or entities who prepare the 3D object printing instructions. The one or more users may interact with the 3D printer (e.g., through the one or more processors of the 3D printer) directly and/or indirectly. Indirect interaction may be through the server. One or more users may be able to monitor one or more aspects of the 3D printing process. One or more users can monitor aspects of the 3D printing process through at least one connection (e.g., network connection). For example, one or more users can monitor aspects of die printing process through direct or indirect connection. Direct connection may be using a local area network (LAN), and/or a wide area network (WAN). The network may interconnect computers within a limited area (e.g., a building, campus, and/or neighborhood). The limited area netw ork may comprise Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The network may have its network equipment and interconnects locally managed. The network may cover a larger geographic distance than the limited area. The network may use telecommunication circuits and/or internet links. The network may comprise Internet Area Network (IAN), and/or the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The communication may comprise web communication. The aspect of the 3D printing process may comprise a 3D printing parameter, machine status, or sensor status. The 3D printing parameter may comprise hatch strategy, energy beam power, energy beam speed, energy beam focus, thickness of a layer (e.g., of hardened material or of pre-transformed material).

[0282] In some embodiments, a user develops at least one 3D printing instruction and directs it to the 3D printer (e.g., through communication with the 3D printer processor) to print in a requested manner according to the developed at least one 3D printing instruction. A user may or may not be able to control (e.g., locally, or remotely) the 3D printer controller. For example, a client may not be able to control the 3D printing controller (e.g., maintenance of the 3D printer).

[0283] In some embodiments, the user (e.g., other than a client) processor uses real-time and/or historical 3D printing data. The 3D printing data may comprise metrology data, or temperature data. The user processor may comprise quality control. The quality control may use a statistical method (e.g., statistical process control (SPC)). The user processor may log excursion log, report when a signal deviates from the nominal level, or any combination thereof. The user processor may generate a configurable response. The configurable response may comprise a print/pause/stop command (e.g., automatically) to the 3D printer (e.g., to the 3D printing processor). The configurable response may be based on a user defined parameter, threshold, or any combination thereof. The configurable response may result in a user defined action. The user processor may control the 3D printing process and ensure that it operates at its full potential. For example, at its full potential, the 3D printing process may make a maximum number of 3D object with a minimum of waste and/or 3D printer down time. The SPC may comprise a control chart, design of experiments, and/or focus on continuous improvement.

[0284] In some embodiments, the user (e g., non-client) processor comprises a pre-print non -transitory computer-readable medium (e g., software). The pre-print non-transitory computer-readable medium may comprise workflow. The work flow may comprise (1) importing a model geometry of a requested 3D object, (2) repairing the requested 3D object geometry, (3) inputting 3D printing parameters (also referred to herein as “process parameters”) to the requested 3D object geometry, (4) selecting or inputting a preferred orientation of the 3D object in the material bed according to which orientation the requested 3D object will be printed, (5) creating or adding auxiliary support geometry to the requested 3D object model, (6) optimizing the geometry and/or number of auxiliary supports (e.g., using at least one simulation), (7) optimizing the orientation of the 3D object (e.g., using at least one simulation), (8) creating a layout of individual parts in a material bed. So, that several could be printed together. The process parameters may comprise pre-transformed material type, hatching scheme, energy beam characteristic (e.g., varied energy beam characteristic disclosed herein), deformation tolerance, surface roughness tolerance, target porosity of the hardened material, resolution. The workflow may further comprise an object pre-correction operation (e.g., OPC). The OPC may depend on the process parameters. The OPC may comprise using at least one simulation. For example, the OPC may be added to the workflow after (2) repairing the requested 3D object geometry. For example, the OPC may be added to the workflow before (8) creating a layout of individual parts in a material bed. The order of workflow operations (3) to (8) may be interchangeable. Any of the operations (3) to (8) may be omitted from the workflow. The workflow may comprise repeating any of the operations (3) to (8) until an optimized workflow is formed. Optimized may be in terms of 3D print time, quality of the 3D object (e.g., minimal deformation, resolution, and/or density), amount of pre-transformed material used, energy used, gas used, electricity used, heat excreted, or any combination thereof. The repair the 3D object model geometry may be such that the geometry of the requested 3D object is watertight. Watertight geometry refers to a geometry that includes continuous a surface(s). The orientation of the 3D object may comprise a deviation from its natural position.

[0285] Workflow may be repeated. Repetition may comprise repeating the optimization of auxiliary support and orientation, as well as the auxiliary support and orientation selection. Repetition may comprise repeating the optimization of auxiliary support and orientation, auxiliary support and orientation selection, and geometry formation. Repetition may comprise repeating the print layout (e.g., optimization thereol), optimization of auxiliary support and orientation, auxiliary support and orientation selection, and geometry formation. Repetition may comprise repeating the print layout (e g., optimization thereof), optimization of auxiliary support and orientation, and auxiliary support and orientation selection. At times, the geometry formation may take into account OPC.

[0286] In some embodiments, the workflow facilitates printing a portion of the 3D object. The fundamental length scale (e.g., the diameter, spherical equivalent diameter, diameter of a bounding circle, or largest of height, width and length; abbreviated herein as “FLS”) of the printed 3D object or a portion thereof can be at least about 50 micrometers (pm), 80 pm, 100 pm, 120 pm, 150 pm, 170 pm, 200 pm, 230 pm, 250 pm, 270 pm, 300 pm, 400 pm, 500 pm, 600 pm, 700 pm, 800 pm, 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, 1cm, 1.5cm, 2cm, 10cm, 20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm, 70cm, 80cm, 90cm, Im, 2m, 3m, 4m, 5m, 10m, 50m, 80m, or 100m. The FLS of the printed 3D object or a portion thereof can be at most about 150 pm, 170 pm, 200 pm, 230 pm, 250 pm, 270 pm, 300 pm, 400 pm, 500 pm, 600 pm, 700 pm, 800 pm, 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, 1cm, 1.5cm, 2cm, 10cm, 20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm, 70cm, 80cm, 90cm, Im, 2m, 3m, 4m, 5m, 10m, 50m, 80m, 100m, 500m, or 1000m. The FLS of the printed 3D object or a portion thereof can any value between the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 50 pm to about 1000m, from about 500 pm to about 100m, from about 50 pm to about 50cm, or from about 50cm to about 1000m). In some cases, the FLS of the printed 3D object or a portion thereof may be in between any of the afore-mentioned FLS values. The portion of the 3D object may be a heated portion or disposed portion (e.g., tile).

[0287] In some embodiments, the layer of pre-transformed material (e g., powder) is of a predetermined height (thickness). The layer of pre-transformed material can comprise the material prior to its transformation in the 3D printing process. The layer of pre-transformed material may have an upper surface that is (e.g., substantially) flat, leveled, or smooth. In some instances, the layer of pre -transformed material may have an upper surface that is not flat, leveled, or smooth. The layer of pre-transformed material may have an upper surface that is corrugated or uneven. The layer of pre-transformed material may have an average or mean (e.g., pre-determined) height. The height of the layer of pre-transformed material (e.g., powder) may be at least about 5 micrometers (pm), 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, 100 pm, 200 pm, 300 pm, 400 pm, 500 pm, 600 pm, 700 pm, 800 pm, 900 pm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, or 1000 mm. The height of the layer of pre-transformed material may be at most about 5 micrometers (pm), 10 pm, 20 pm, 30 pm, 40 pm, 50 pm, 60 pm, 70 pm, 80 pm, 90 pm, 100 pm, 200 pm, 300 pm, 400 pm, 500 pm, 600 pm, 700 pm, 800 pm, 900 pm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm, 500 mm, 600 mm, 700 mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, or 1000 mm. The height of the layer of pre-transformed material may be any number between the afore-mentioned heights (e.g., from about 5pm to about 1000mm, from about 5pm to about 1mm, from about 25pm to about 1mm, or from about 1mm to about 1000mm). The “height” of the layer of material (e.g., powder) may at times be referred to as the “thickness” of the layer of material. In some instances, the layer of hardened material may be a sheet of metal. The layer of hardened material may be fabricated using a 3D manufacturing methodology. Occasionally, the first layer of hardened material may be thicker than a subsequent layer of hardened material. The first layer of hardened material may be at least about 1.1 times, 1.2 times, 1.4 times, 1.6 times, 1.8 times, 2 times, 4 times, 6 times, 8 times, 10 times, 20 times, 30 times, 50 times, 100 times, 500 times, 1000 times, or thicker (higher) than the average (or mean) thickness of a subsequent layer of hardened material, the average thickens of an average subsequent layer of hardened material, or the average thickness of any of the subsequent layers of hardened material. Fig. 9 shows an example of a schematic cross section in a 3D object 911 comprised of layers of hardened material numbered 1 to 6, with 6 being the first layer (e.g., bottom skin layer). In some instances, layer #1 can be thicker than any of the layers #2 to #6. In some instances, layer #1 can be thicker than an average thickens of layers #2 to #6. The very first layer of hardened material formed in the material bed by 3D printing may be referred herein as the “bottom skin” layer.

[0288] In some instances, one or more intervening layers separate adjacent components from one another. For example, the one or more intervening layers can have a thickness of at most about 10 micrometers (“microns”), 1 micron, 500 nanometers (“nm”), 100 nm, 50 nm, 10 nm, or 1 nm. For example, the one or more intervening layers can have a thickness of at least about 10 micrometers (“microns”), 1 micron, 500 nanometers (“nm”), 100 nm, 50 nm, 10 nm, or 1 nm. In an example, a first layer is adjacent to a second layer when the first layer is in direct contact with the second layer. In another example, a first layer is adjacent to a second layer when the first layer is separated from the second layer by a third layer. In some instances, adjacent to may be ‘above’ or ‘below.’ Below can be in the direction of the gravitational force or towards the platform. Above can be in the direction opposite to the gravitational force or away from the platform.

[0289] At times, a center column of the build module tilts when its stage, floor, and/or foundation is misaligned. When translation of the build module is aided by a plurality of encoders, the tilt may cause the encoders to fault. The 3D printing system may not be able to recover from such fault. The read head of the encoder may be fixed to a body (e.g., columns or posts that guide vertical translation of the build module). The encoder may be sensitive to spacing between the scale on the post (e.g., column) and the read head of the encoder. The design of the build module and/or encoder module may be constrained via control (e.g., via the control system such as control of the vertical translation of the build module). These may cause malfunction during setup of the system and/or on any abnormal operation condition of the build module, e.g., when the posts (e.g., columns) operatively coupled to the build module can become sufficiently skewed to fault the read head of the encoder.

[0290] In some embodiments, a build module has a bottom to which encoder is connected. The build module may have at least one window. The window may comprise one or more panes, e.g., a window assembly. For example, the window be a single or a double paned window. The window may be an insulated glass unit (IGU), the window may be configured to withstand positive pressure within the build module, e.g., during printing. The positive pressure may be above ambient pressure external to the build module, e.g., of about one atmosphere. The build module may be configured to operatively coupled to a shaft (e.g., elevator shaft). The posts and can be disposed on a stage disposed on supports disposed on a floor. The support can comprise a column or a plank. Tilt of stage may cause tilt in shaft by angle. Vertical translation of the build module may be aided by encoder(s). The encoder may be disposed adjacent to shaft portion that is an enlarged view of shaft. The encoder may be separated from shaft portion by a gap. The shaft portion may be connected to the build module portion, which comprises fasteners. When the shaft portion becomes tilted by an angle, the gap may vary (e.g., increase or decrease), which gap variation may fault the encoder. The build module may comprise adjuster(s) configured to diminish or overcome such gap. For example, the encoder may be disposed on compliant mounting.

102911 Fig. 13 shows in example 1300 a front side example of a portion of a 3D printing system comprising a material reservoir 1301 configured to feed pre-transformed material to a layer dispensing mechanism, an enclosure 1309 configure to enclose, e.g., scanners and/or directors (e.g., optical system) of at least one energy beam (e.g., laser beam), e.g., configured to transform the pre-transformed material into a transformed material to print one or more 3D object in a printing cycle. Example 1300 of Fig. 13 shows a build module 1302 having a door with three circular windows. The windows may be any window disclosed herein. The window may be a single or a double pane window. The window may be an insulated glass unit (IGU), the window may be configured to withstand positive pressure within the processing chamber, e g., during printing. The positive pressure is above ambient pressure external to the build module, e.g., the ambient pressure may be about one atmosphere. Example 1300 show a material reservoir 1304 configured to accumulate recy cled remainder from the layer dispensing process to form a material bed and/or a remainder of the material bed that did not form one or more 3D objects during a printing cycle, post 1305 as part of an elevator mechanism of build module 1308; two material reservoirs 1307 for accumulating a remainder of the material bed that did not form the 3D object, and actuator 1303 configured to translate the layer dispensing mechanism to dispense a layer of pre-transformed material as part of a material bed. Supports 1306 are planarly stationed in a first horizontal plane, which supports 1306 and associated framing support one section of the 3D printing system portion 1300, and framing 1310 is disposed on a second horizontal plane higher than the first horizontal plane. Fig. 13 shows in 1350 an example side view example of a portion of the 3D printing system shown in example 1300, which side view comprises a material

I l l reservoir 1351 configured to feed pre-transformed material to a layer dispensing mechanism, an enclosure 1359 enclosing, e.g., scanners and/or directors (e.g., optical system) of at least one energy beam (e.g., laser beam) configured to transform the pre-transformed material into a transformed material to print one or more 3D object in a printing cycle. Example 1350 of Fig. 13 shows an example build module 1352 having a door comprising handle 1369 (as part of a handle assembly). Example 1300 show a material reservoir 1354 configured to accumulate recycled remainder from the layer dispensing process to form a material bed and/or a remainder of the material bed that did not form one or more 3D objects during a printing cycle, a portion of the material conveyance system 1368 configured to convey the material to reservoir 1354. The material conveyed to reservoir 1354 may be separated (e.g., sieved) before reaching reservoir 1354. The example shown in 1350 shows post 1355 as part of an elevator mechanism of build module 1358; two material reservoirs 1357 for accumulating a remainder of the material bed that did not form the 3D object, and actuator 1353 configmed to translate the layer dispensing mechanism to dispense a layer of pretransformed material as part of a material bed, e.g., along railing 1367 in processing chamber and into garage 1366 in a reversible (e.g., back and forth) movement. Supports 1356 are planarly stationed in a first horizontal plane, which supports 1306 and associated framing support one section of the 3D printing system portion 1350, and framing 1360 is disposed on a second horizontal plane higher than the first horizontal plane. In the example shown in Fig. 13, the 3D printing system components may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 1390 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0292] In some embodiments, the base (e.g., build module) and substrate (e.g., elevator piston) are translated, e.g., before during and/or after printing one or more 3D objects in a print cycle. The translation may be in both directions (e.g., back and forth). The translation may be vertical. The translation may be effectuated by an elevator. The elevator may be configmed to provide a high precision platform for building one or more 3D objects in a printing cycle with high fidelity. The build module may accommodate a material bed having a FSL (e.g., diameter) of at least about 100 millimeters (mm), 200mm, 300mm, 400mm, 500mm, 600 mm, 700mm, 800mm, 900mm, or 1000mm. The build module may accommodate a material bed having a FSL (e.g., diameter) of at most 200mm, 300mm, 400mm, 500mm, 600 mm, 700mm, 800mm, 900mm, 1000mm, or 1200mm. The FLS of the material bed accommodated by the build module may have a FLS value between any of the aforementioned values (e g., from about 100mm to about 1200mm, from about 100mm to about 700mm, or from about 300mm to about 1200mm). The build module may be configured to accommodate a material bed having a FLS (e.g., height) of at least about 150mm, 250mm, 350mm, 450mm, 550mm, 650 mm, 750mm, 850mm, 950mm, or 1050mm. The build module may accommodate a material bed having a FSL (e.g., diameter) of at most 250mm, 350mm, 450mm, 550mm, 650 mm, 750mm, 850mm, 950mm, 1050mm, or 1250mm. The FLS of the material bed accommodated by the build module may have a FLS value between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 150mm to about 1250mm, from about 150mm to about 750mm, or from about 350mm to about 1250mm). In addition to the material bed, the build module may be configured to accommodate a base and a substrate. The elevator may be able to translate in a continuous and/or discrete maimer. The elevator may be able to translate in discrete increments of at most about 10 micrometers (pm), 20pm, 30pm, 40pm, 50pm, 60pm, 70pm, or 80pm. The elevator may be able to translate in discrete increments having a value between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 10pm to about 80pm, from about 10pm to about 60pm, or from about 40pm to about 80pm). The elevator may have a precision (e.g., error +/-) of at most about 0.25 pm, 0.5pm, 1pm, 1.5pm, 2pm, 2.5pm, 3pm, 4pm, or 5pm. The elevator may have a precision value between any of the aforementioned precision value (e.g., from about 0.25 pm to about 5pm, from about 0.25 pm to about 2.5pm, or from about 1.5pm to about 5pm). The elevator may have a precision (e g., error +/-) of at most about 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 8% or 10% of its incremental movement. The elevator may have a precision value between any of the aforementioned precision value relative to its incremental movement (e.g., from about 0.5% to about 10%, from about 0.5% to about 5%, or from about 1% to about 10%). The weight of the material bed (e.g., including any printed 3D object therein) may be at least about 300 Kilograms (Kg), 500 Kg, 800Kg, lOOOKg, 1200Kg, 1500Kg, 1800Kg, 2000Kg, 2500Kg, or 3000Kg. The weight of the material bed (e.g., including any printed 3D object therein) may be between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 300Kg to about 3000Kg, from about 300Kg to about 1500Kg, or from about lOOOKg to about 3000Kg). The elevator may be configured to translate the build module at a speed of at most 3 millimeters per second (mm/sec), 5 mm/sec, 10 mm/sec, 20 mm/sec, 30 mm/sec, or 50 mm/sec. The elevator may be configured to translate the build module at a speed of at least 1 mm/sec, 3 mm/sec, 5 mm/sec, 10 mm/sec, 20 mm/sec, 30 mm/sec, or 40 mm/sec. The elevator may be configured to translate the build module at a speed between any of the aforementioned speeds (e.g., from about 1 mm/sec to about 50 mm/sec, from about 1 mm/sec to about 20 mm/sec, or from about 5 mm/sec to about 50 mm/sec). The elevator may be configured to translate the build module at a speed of at most 1 millimeter per second squared (mm/sec ² ), 2.5 mm/sec ² , 5 mm/sec ² , 7.5 mm/sec ² , 10 mm/sec ² , or 20 mm/sec ² . The elevator may be configured to translate the build module at an acceleration of at least 0.5 mm/sec ² , 1 mm/sec ² , 2 mm/sec ² , 3 mm/sec ² , 5 mm/sec ² , 10 mm/sec ² , or 15 mm/sec ² . The elevator may be configured to translate the build module at a speed between any of the aforementioned speeds (e.g., from about 0.5 mm/sec ² to about 20 mm/sec ² , from about 0.5 mm/sec ² to about 10 mm/sec ² , or from about 4 mm/sec ² to about 20 mm/sec ² ).

[0293] In some embodiments, the build module has an elevator system configured to vertically translate the substrate (e.g., piston) in a vertical back and forth movement. The elevator system may have a portion disposed in the build module housing, and a portion external to the build module housing. The build module may or may not have a seal at its top. Top may be in a direction towards the processing chamber and/or against the direction of the gravitational vector pointing towards the gravitational center. For example, the elevator system has a post and/or a framing disposed outside of the build module housing (e.g., enclosure), and an encoder and/or shaft insider the build module housing. The elevator system may comprise a bent mechanical arm disposed external to the build model. The bent arm may have two portion that are normal to each other. The bent arm may be bent at an angle of at least about 70 degrees (°), 80 °, 85 °, 90 °, 95 °, 100 °, or 105 °. The bent arm may be bent by an angle of at most about 75 °, 80 °, 85 °, 90 °, 95 °, 100 °, 105 °, or 110 °. The bent arm may be bent by an angle between any of the aforementioned angles (e g., from about 70 ⁰ to about 110 °, or from about 85 ⁰ to about 95 °). The bent arm may be bent by about 90 °. the bent arm may have two or more components. The bent arm may have a straight portion, and/or a bent portion. The bent arm may have a (e.g., first distal) portion aligned with the horizon, a (e.g., second distal) portion aligned with a vertical plane normal to the horizon, and/or a (e.g., middle) portion aligned at an angle with respect to the horizon and to the vertical plane normal to the horizon. The angled (e g., middle) portion may form an angle of at most about 30 40 °, 45°, 50 °, or 60 ⁰ with the first and/or second distal portions. The angled (e.g., middle) portion may form an angle with respect to the first and/or second distal portions between the aforementioned angles (e.g., from about 30 °, to about 60 °, or from about 40° to about 50 °). The angled (e.g., middle) portion may form an angle with respect to the first and the second distal portions of about 45 °. The angled (e.g., middle) portion may be disposed between the two distal portions, as part of the bent (e.g., angled) arm.

[0294] Fig. 14 shows in 1400 a perspective view example of a portion of a 3D printing system comprising a build module housing 1402 that is fastened 1403 with fasteners to framing 1407. The build module having housing 1402 comprises a base (e.g., build plate) 1401 configured to support a material bed during printing (not shown). Framing 1407 comprises supports 1408 that are vertically adjustable, e.g., to ensure leveling of the framing. Framing 1407 is affixed to elevator motion stage 1405 operatively coupled to an actuator 1404 (e.g., comprising a motor such as a servomotor) coupled to a screw (e.g., bearing screw) and to a bent arm (e.g., L shaped arm) 1406, which actuator and screw are configured to translate. Fig. 14 shows in 1450 a perspective view example of a portion of a 3D printing system comprising a build module housing 1452 devoid of a framing. The build module having housing 1452 comprises a substrate 1451 configured to operatively couple to a base (e.g., build plate) such as 1401, which base is not shown in the example of 1450. An elevator motion stage 1455 is operatively coupled to an actuator 1454 (e.g., comprising a motor such as a servomotor) coupled to a screw (e.g., bearing screw) 1457 and to a bent arm 1456, which actuator 1454 and screw 1457 are configured to translate. The arm 1456 is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) to fan 1408 configured to cool one or more components with build module housing 1452, e.g., cool substrate 1451 or a base (e.g., build plate) that is operatively coupled to it (base not shown in the example of 1450). In Fig. 14, the 3D printing system components may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 1490 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0295] At times, a framing assumes motion (e.g., stepwise motion) during printing, e g., due to insufficient stability (e g., stiffness), e g., due to motion and/or weight of the material bed. The motion may be at most about 5 , 10pm, 12pm, 15pm, 20pm, 30pm, or 50pm. An increased structural stiffness of the framing may decrease an expected position of the framing (and the build module), and the actual position, e.g., thus improving precision of the printed 3D object with respect to a requested 3D object. In some embodiments, a framing of the build module and elevator system requires an increased structural stiffness. The framing may be configured or easy maintenance, assembly and/or installation. Stiffness of the framing may be at least about 1.0 kilogram force per micron (Kgf/pm), 1.2 Kgf/pm, 1.3 Kgf/pm, 1.4 Kgf/pm, 1.5 Kgf/pm, 2 Kgf/pm, 1.5 Kgf/pm, 5 Kgf/pm, 7.5 Kgf/pm, 10 Kgf/pm, 15 Kgf/pm, 20 Kgf/pm, or 50 Kgf/pm. The stiffness of the framing may be between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 1.0 Kgf/pm to about 50 Kgf/pm, from about 1.0 Kgf/pm to about 20 Kgf/pm, or from about 2.5 Kgf/pm to about 50 Kgf/pm.

[0296] In some embodiments, a 3D printing system comprises framing system, a build module housing disposed partially in the interior space of the framing system, and partially outside the interior space of the framing system. The build module substrate (e.g., piston) is coupled to the framing by a bent arm that is coupled to railings coupled, or part of, an elevator motion stage that is coupled to vertical beams of the elevator motion stage. The build module housing is coupled to the framing by fasteners to a vertical beam (e.g., plank or post) such as beam that is supported by plates (e g , planar pieces) coupled to top horizontal beams and directed towards the bottom. Framing is coupled to, or comprises, vertically adjustable supports. The supports may be vertically and horizontally adjustable. For example, the foot of the support can be tilted to facilitate best contact with the floor on which the framing is disposed. The foot of the support may be connected by a ball (e.g., ball bearing) to the leg of the support. The framing system may have a vertical mirror symmetry plane going through its middle, through middle of build module, and through middle of the elevator motion stage and between vertical beams. The build module substrate (e.g., piston) is coupled to the framing by a bent arm that is coupled to railings coupled, or part of, an elevator motion stage that is coupled to vertical beams of the elevator motion stage. The build module housing is coupled to the framing by fasteners to a vertical beam that is supported by plates coupled to top horizontal beams and directed towards the bottom. The framing system shown in may have a vertical mirror symmetry plane going through its middle, through middle of build module, and through middle of the elevator motion stage and between vertical beams. Top and bottom are with respect to gravitational vector pointing to gravitational center.

[0297] In some embodiments, the framing system comprises one or more stiffeners (e.g., plates, angled beams, and additional horizontal beams). An angle of the stiffeners may be at least about 15 degrees (°), 20 °, 30 °, 45 °, 60 °, or 80 ⁰ with respect to the horizontal beam and/or vertical beam. The angle of the stiffeners with respect to the horizontal beam and/or vertical beam may be between any of the aforementioned angles (e.g., from about 15 “ to about 80°, or from about 30° to about 60 "). The additional horizontal beams may be disposed between the top beam and the bottom beam.

[0298] In some embodiments, the framing includes easily accessible and/or removable beams, e.g., for ease of maintenance and/or installation. For example, horizontal beam may be configured for easy access and removal. The fasteners of the removable beam may be the same or different as other fasteners in the framing. The framing may include one or more materials. For example, the framing and/or plates may include one or more materials. At least two components of the framing may be of the same type of material. At least two components of the framing may be of a different type of material. The components may comprise horizontal beams, vertical beams, angled breams, plates, supports (e.g., mechanical legs and/or mechanical feet), or fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, washers, and/or snap-fit mechanism). The material type may comprise any material disclosed herein, e.g., elemental metal or metal alloy. For example, the framing may comprise aluminum and steel.

[0299] In some embodiments the 3D printing system (e.g., the framing, elevator system, and/or build module) may comprise a custom linear coupler. The custom linear coupler may transfer vertical force from the elevator motion stage to an alignment coupler (e g., a tri-lift system) to facilitate movement of the substrate and/or base with minimal constraints. The custom linear coupler may comprise a screw that is angled with respect to a planer washer (e.g., planar, lock washer, or spring lock washer, or a disk spring). The spring lock washer may be a split lock washer. The lock washer may comprise ridges. The lock washer may comprise teeth (e.g., having internal and/or external teeth). The teeth may be planar or non-planar. The customer linear coupler may comprise a spherical bearing (e.g., radial bearing) or a thrust ball bearing. The custom linear coupler may have a casing (e g., a box structure) having vertical sides and a horizontal bottom. The screw may be angled with respect to the vertical sides of the casing and with respect to the horizontal bottom. The custom linear coupler comprises a bolt fitting the screw. The angle may be an angle may be at most about 89.5°, 80 70 °, 60 50 or 45 °. The angle may have any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 89.5 ⁰ to about 45 °). The angle may be less than 90 °. The bearings may be encased in a casing. The casing may form a cavity in the casing having a FLS (e.g., height). The screw may be movable in the casing. The FLS of the casing may limit the XY alignment, e.g., of the screw. In some embodiments, the casing of the bearings may be absent.

[0300] In some embodiments, the bent arm (e.g., lifting arm) moves the substrate by an alignment coupler. The alignment coupler may prevent mechanical over constraint on the build module, bent arm, and/or shafts. The alignment coupler may comprise peripheral shafts and a central shaft. The alignment coupler may comprise one or more platforms. The aligmnent coupler may comprise bearings or seals. The alignment coupler may be operatively coupled to (e.g., connected) the bent arm, e.g., using a pin. An actuator (e.g., servo motor) may cause the screw (e.g., ball screw) to spin, which screw spinning may move the bent arm vertically (e.g., up or down). The screw may be configured to reversibly move the bent arm up or down. An encoder may provide feedback to controller(s) (e.g., to a control system) regarding the position of the substrate (e.g., piston). The bent arm may facilitate translation of the substrate through the alignment coupler. Shafts may guide the motion of the substrate in the build module housing. The bent arm causes the substrate to translate vertically through its coupling with an alignment coupler; and in operation shafts guide the motion of the substrate disposed a build module housing. The operations may be controlled (e.g., directed and/or monitored) by one or more controllers, e g., the control system that controls the 3D printing. [0301] In some embodiments, the bent arm and associated brackets includes one or more materials (e.g., one or more material types). In some embodiments, the bent arm and associated brackets include various components. For example, the bent arm may include various components (e.g., external plates and an interior). For example, the bent arm and/or brackets operatively coupled to it, may include one or more materials. At least two components of the bent arm and associated brackets may be of the same type of material. At least two components of the bent arm and associated brackets may be of a different type of material. The material type may comprise any material disclosed herein, e.g., elemental metal or metal alloy. For example, the bent ann may comprise aluminum and steel (e.g., stainless steel). For example, the internal component(s) of the bent arm and/or associated brackets of the bent arm, may comprise a lighter and/or weaker material as compared to the bent arm exterior plates. For example, the internal components of the bent arm and/or associated brackets of the bent arm, may comprise a dense and/or stronger material as compared to the bent arm exterior plates. Incorporating lighter material may reduce the weight of the bent arm and/or associated brackets. Incorporating stronger material may increase the strength (e.g., stiffness) of the bent arm and/or associated brackets.

[0302] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises an alignment system configured to translate the substrate vertically, e.g., during the printing process. The alignment system may comprise a shaft (e.g., shafts), a substrate (e.g., piston), a stage, one or more gas channels, an encoder, a bearing, or a sensor. In some embodiments, the substrate (e.g., piston) is translated vertically in a back-and-forth movement with the aid of (e g., linear) shafts. The shafts can guide motion of the substrate in the build module housing During motion of the shafts, the build module is stationary with respect to the moving shafts. There may be a plurality of shafts (e.g., peripheral shafts) that encircle a central shaft. The plurality of shafts (e.g., peripheral shafts) may comprise at least 3, 4, 5, or 6 shafts (e.g., linear shafts). At least two of the plurality of peripheral shafts (e.g., all of the peripheral shafts) have the same, or substantially the same, FLS (e.g., dimensions). The central shaft may have the same, or substantially the same, length as a peripheral shaft. The central shaft may have the same diameter and/or cross section as a peripheral shaft. The central shaft may have a larger dimension than the peripheral shaft. The central shaft may comprise a scale configured to be read by an encoder (e.g., linear absolute encoder). The encoder can provide feedback to controller(s) (e.g., to the control system) on the position of the substrate (e.g., piston). The peripheral shafts may be guiding shafts. The peripheral shafts are concentrically arranged with the central shaft. The central shaft may be hollow. The central shaft is configured to accommodate one or more coolant (e.g., gas, liquid, or semi-solid) channels. The coolant may flow in the channel(s) or be stationary . The coolant may be configured for high heat conductivity. The coolant may comprise water. In some embodiments, the channels comprise solid material (e.g., the channels are rods). The solid material may be any solid material disclosed herein. The solid material may be configured for high temperature conductance. The solid material may comprise elemental metal or metal alloy. The solid material may comprise copper or aluminum. The central shaft may facilitate flow of gas. The gas may be the same or different than the gas in the build module. For example, the gas in the shaft may be air and the gas in the build module may be inert. The gas in the build module may have a lower percentage of active agents as compared to the gas in the central shaft (e.g., in the gas channel within the central shaft). The active agents may comprise oxygen or water.

[0303] In some embodiments the 3D printing system comprises an alignment system configured to align translation of the base in the build module during printing. The alignment system can comprise one or more horizontal stages. The first (e.g., upper) stage may be configured to seal the bottom of the build module housing. The first stage may be stationary during movement of the substrate (e g., piston) and the bent arm. The second stage may be external to the build module housing. The second (e.g., lower) stage may be configured to attach to the bent arm and move with the bent ann. The first stage may comprise holes through which posts can travel. The posts may be sealed by covering, e.g., bearing housing. The atmosphere outside of the covering and in the build module housing may be the same or different than the atmosphere inside the covering and outside of the build module housing. The difference may be in pressure and/or in reactive agents (e.g., reactive species). For example, the atmosphere in the build module and outside of the covering may be inert and in positive pressure relative to an ambient pressure external to the build module. For example, the atmosphere external to the build module and inside of the covering may be an ambient atmosphere having ambient content and pressure (e.g., air at (e.g., substantially) one atmosphere.

[0304] In some embodiments, temperature of the material bed, base (e.g., build plate), substrate (e.g., piston), and alignment mechanism may heat up. When the 3D printing involves high melting point material(s) such as metal, and the 3D object is large, temperature may raise, which may deform one or more components of the build module and associated systems. At times it may be advantageous to cool at least one component of the build module, e.g., during and/or after printing. The temperature adjustment (e.g., cooling) should preferably not affect the 3D printing process. In some embodiments, the base (e g., build plate) and/or substrate (e g , piston) is temperature adjusted (e g., cooled) Temperature adjustment may be with an aid of a coolant. The coolant may be passive (e.g., metal rod) or active (e.g., flowing water or gas). The channels may reach a temperature adjustment chamber (e.g., cavity) as part of the substrate (e.g., piston). The substrate may comprise a lock mechanism to engage with the base (e.g., build plate). The temperature adjustment may comprise an increase surface area. For example, the temperature adjustment chamber may comprise projections projected from a wall of the chamber towards an interior of the chamber (e.g., similar to intestine villi), which projections increase the surface area of chamber wall. The chamber may be cylindrical (e.g., having circular cross section) or a cuboid (e.g., a rectangular box). The chamber may comprise one or more ports. The cambers comprises one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensor and/or pressure sensor). The chamber may comprise exit openings. The chamber may comprise, or be configured to accommodate, ingress and egress of temperature adjustment channels.

[0305] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises an unpacking station that is integral with the 3D printing system, e.g., to facilitate unpacking of the printed 3D object(s) in the processing chamber. The processing chamber may comprise a slotted floor to facilitate the unpacking process, e.g., to allow any remainder of the material bed that did not form the 3D object(s), to flow there through. The unpacking process may include the following operations: (i) opening slot covering at the end of a printing cycle, (ii) raising (e.g., slowly) the build plate to allow the remainder to spill into the slots in the processing chamber floor, (iii) once all the remainder has spilled into the slots, the covering of the slots are lowered to shut the slots. The material remainder can optionally return to be recycled and used in subsequent printing cycle(s). In some embodiments, the covering of the slots remain open, or are absent. The remainder may accumulate at one or more material reservoirs situated below the slots. The remainder material may fall into the slots and/or material reservoir(s) (e.g., hoppers) as it is attracted by gravity. The unpacking station may include a slotted floor, covering (e.g., flaps), actuator (e.g., pneumatic actuator or any other actuator disclosed herein), guide, a material reservoir, and/or a valve. The guide may comprise a channel or a funnel. The funnel may comprise a planar side or a curved side. The funnel may have an elongated opening or around opening. The funnel may have an opening that engulfs a FLS of one or more floor slots, e.g., a length of one or more slots, and/or a width of one or more slots. The slots may be arranged in a geometric shape concentric with the base (e.g., build plate). The geometric shape of the build plate and the slot arrangement can be the same or different. For example, the slots can be arranged along a rectangle whereas the build plate may be circular. The reservoir(s) have the same environment or a different environment as compared to that of the processing chamber.

[0306] In some embodiments, a material reservoir assembly may be utilized for collection of material bed remainder. The material reservoir may comprise a body, a (e.g., pressure) relief outlet (e.g., and valve), one or more sensors such as material level sensor, pressure sensor, oxygen sensor, humidity sensor, and/or temperature sensors. Material reservoir (e.g., hopper) may include a purge inlet (e.g., and valve) that may be utilized to purge the accumulated material therein with a gas (e.g., inert gas or reactive gas such as one containing humidity or oxy gen, e.g., for passivation). The material reservoir may be coupled to a material feed tube coupled to valve, which feed tube is extends to a recycling system to recycle the material for subsequent print(s). The material reservoir (e g., hopper) may comprise two openings. One of openings can be for material intake (e g., from a channel and/or funnel), and one for material outtake from the reservoir; or both openings can be for material intake. The mounting may comprise a tapped flange. The mounting may comprise half dovetail structure.

[0307] Fig. 11 shows a perspective view example of a portion of a 3D printing sy stem including a processing chamber having a ceiling (e.g., roof) 1101 in which optical windows are disposed to each facilitate penetration of an energy' beam into the processing chamber interior space, side wall 1111 having a gas exit port covering 1105 coupled thereto. The processing chamber has two gas entrance port coverings 1102a and 1102b coupled to an opposing wall to side wall 1111. The opposing wall is coupled to an actuator 1103 configured to facilitate translation of a layer dispensing mechanism (e.g., recoater) mounted on a framing 1104 above a base disposed adjacent to a floor of tire processing chamber, which framing is configured to facilitate (e.g., enable) reversible translation of the layer dispensing mechanism (back and forth) in the processing chamber along railings. The processing chamber floor has slots through which remainder material can flow downwards towards gravitational center G along gravitational vector 1190. The slots are coupled to funnels such as 1106 that are connected by channels (e.g., pipes) such as 1107 to material reservoir such as 1109 (e.g., to facilitate unpacking of a remainder of a material bed after printing). The processing chamber is coupled to a build module 1121 that comprises a substrate to which the base is attached, which substrate is configured to vertically translate with the aid of actuator 1122 coupled to an elevator motion stage (e.g., supporting plate) 1123 via a bent arm. The elevator motion stage and coupled components are supported by framing 1108 that is missing a beam that is removed in Fig. 11 (e.g., the beam can be removed for installation and/or maintenance).. Atmosphere (e.g., content, temperature and/or pressure) may be equilibrated between the material reservoirs and the processing chamber via schematic channel (e.g., pipe) portions 1133a-c. Remainder material in the material reservoirs may be conveyed via schematic channels (e.g., pipes) 1143a-b to a material recycling system, e.g., for future use in printing. The components of the 3D printing system are disposed relative to gravitational vector 1190 pointing to gravitational center G.

[0308] In some embodiments, openings (e.g., holes such as slits) are disposed in the floor of the processing chamber to facilitate in-situ removal of a remainder of the material bed that did not form 3D object(s). The openings can be a plurality of openings of any shape. The openings can have a geometric shape such as a rectangle, triangle, oval, or oblong shape. The openings can have an aspect ratio greater than, or equal to about 1 : 1. For example the openings can have an aspect ratio of at least about 1.5:1, 2: 1, 2.5:1, 3: 1, or 4: 1 of length:width (length to width) of the shape. The FLS (e.g., length or width) of the hole may be at least about 10 millimeters (mm), 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, or 100mm. The FLS (e.g., length or width) of the hole may be at most about 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100mm, or 150mm. The FSL of the hole may be between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 10mm to about 50mm, from about 50mm to about 100mm, or from about 10mm to about 150mm). The openings can be elongated. The openings can be disposed around an opening configured to fit a base above which the 3D object(s) are printed during the 3D printing process. Around the opening can be along a circumference of a two-dimensional shape disposed on the floor of the processing chamber. The shape can be a geometric shape. The shape can have a surface having a FLS greater than that of the base. The shape can be a convex or a concave shape. The shape can be a polygon. Openings can be arranged on one or more parallel lines along the perimeter of the shape. For example, the openings can form a mesh along the perimeter of the shape. The number of openings along a side of a polygonal shape can comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, or more openings. At least two of the openings may be different (e.g., different shape or FLS). At least two of the openings may be the same (e.g., different shape or FLS). The flap may open (e.g., with the aid of the actuator) to an angle (e.g., 5655) of at most about 20 °, 35 °, 50 °, 55 °, 70 °, or 80 °. The flap may open (e.g., with the aid of the actuator) to an angle of at most about 30 °, 35 °, 50 °, 55 °, 70 °, 80 ⁰ or 90 °. The flap may open to any angle between the aforementioned angles with respect to the processing chamber floor (e.g., from about 20 ⁰ to about, 90 °, from about 20 ⁰ to about, 70 °, or from about 50 ⁰ to about, 90 °).

[0309] In some embodiments, a 3D printing system comprises a movement system. In some embodiments, the movement system (e.g., railing, carriage, and framing) is configmed to withstand the conditions prevailing in the processing chamber during 3D printing. The conditions may comprise heat above about 500°C, 1000°C, 1500°C, or 2000°C. The condition may comprise an atmosphere comprising powder, dust and/or debris. The conditions may comprise radiation of energy beam(s) (e.g., e-beam or laser). The movement system can traverse the material bed in a back-and-forth motion. The movement system may be configured to mount the material dispensing mechanism (e.g., including the recoater, leveler, and dispenser). The movement system may be configured to facilitate motion of die material dispensing mechanism in and out of a garage operatively coupled to the processing chamber.

[0310] In some embodiments, the movement system is configured for disposition in the processing chamber of the 3D printer to the extent that motion of the layer dispensing mechanism (e.g., the recoater) does not induce a (e.g., substantial and/or noticeable) effect on the pressure level in the processing chamber. The movement system may be configured to translate the layer dispensing mechanism and attach thereto. The movement speed of the movement system (e g., and thus of the layer dispensing mechanism) is at most about 400 millimeters per second (mm/sec), 500 mm/sec, 700 mm/sec, 1000 mm/sec, 1300 mm/sec, or 1500 mm/sec. The movement speed of the movement system is of any value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 400 mm/sec to about 1500mm/sec, or from about 500mm/sec to about 1300mm/sec). The movement system may be configured to accelerate. The acceleration may be at most about 4000 millimeters per second squared (mm/s ² ), 8000 mm/s ² , 10000 mm/s ² , 12000 mm/s ² , or 15000 mm/s ² . The acceleration may have a value between any of the aforementioned values (e.g., from 4000 mm/s ² to 15000 mm/s ² , or from 4000 mm/s ² to 1000 mm/s ² ). The translation of the movement system during operation should not generate (e.g., substantial and/or noticeable) obstruction on the exposed surface of the material bed (e.g., should not cause formation of ripples on the exposed surface of the material bed). The movement system may be configured to move at a distance spanning the processing chamber into tire garage (e.g., and spanning die garage). For example, the linear travel distance (e.g., railing span) may be at least about 200mm, 500mm, 1000mm, 1300mm, 1600mm, or 2000mm. The linear travel distance of the movement system may be any distance between the aforementioned distances (e.g, from about 200mm to about 2000mm). The movement system coupled to the layer dispensing mechanism may be able to complete deposition of a layer of material having a planar exposed surface (e.g., at 100% duty cycle) every in at most about 5 seconds (sec), 7.5 sec, 8.5sec, 9.5 sec, 11 sec, 12sec, or 15sec. The movement system coupled to the layer dispensing mechanism may be able to complete deposition of a layer of material having a planar exposed surface (e.g., at 100% duty cycle) at a period of time having a time value between the aforementioned time values (e.g., from about every 5sec to about every 15sec, or from about every 7.5 sec to about every 9.5 sec). Duty cycle of 100% may include no overheating (e.g., or other change) that prevents repeatable layer dispensing cycles. The movement system may generate a noise level of at most about 40 decibels (dB), 50 dB, 60 dB, 70 dB, 80 dB, or 90 dB during operation. The movement system may generate a noise level having a value between the aforementioned values (e.g., from about 40dB to about 90dB, or from about 40dB to about 70dB). When present inside the process chamber, the movement system may be devoid of any lubricants, e.g., in the rails and/or wheels. The movement system may be configured to facilitate (e.g., to allow) adjustment of tire leveler (e.g, blade thereof), dispenser, and remover (e.g., nozzle thereof). The movement system should accommodate a channel (e.g., flexible hose) for removal of the removed material (e.g., removal of powder material removed through the remover) during its operation. [0311] Fig. 12 shows an example of a 3D printing system 1200 disposed in relation of gravitational vector 1290 directed towards gravitational center G. The 3D printing system comprises processing chamber 1201 coupled to an ancillary chamber (e.g., garage) 1202 configured to accommodate a layer dispensing mechanism (e.g, recoater), e.g., in its resting (e.g., idle) position. The processing chamber is also coupled to a build module 1203 that extends 1204 under a plane (e.g., platform) at which user 1205 stands on (e.g., can extend under-grounds). The processing chamber may comprise a door (not shown) facing user 1205. 3D printing system 1200 comprises enclosure 1206 that can comprise an energy beam alignment system (e.g., an optical system) and/or an energy beam directing system (e.g., scanner) - not shown. A material dispensing mechanism (not shown) may be coupled to a framing 1207 as part of a movement system that facilitate movement of the material dispensing system along the material bed and garage (e.g., in a reversible back-and-forth movement). The movement system comprises a translation inducer system (e.g, comprising a belt or a chain 1208). 3D printing system 1200 comprises a filter unit 1209, heat exchangers 1210a and 1210b, pre-transformed material reservoir 1211, and gas guiding system disposed in enclosure 1213. The filtering system (including filtering unit 1209) may filter gas and/or pre-transformed material. The filtering system may be configured to filter debris (e.g, comprising byproduct(s) of the 3D printing. [0312] In some embodiments, the movement system comprises an uneven number of wheels. In some embodiments, the movement system comprises an even number of wheels. The wheels may be coupled to the carriage. The movement system may comprise one or more carriages. For example, the movement system may comprise two carriages. The two carriages may be configured to couple the same, or different, number of wheels. The two carriages may be configured to engage with the same, or different, number of railings. At least one of the carriages may comprise the flexible portion (e.g, spring or flexure). A first carriage may comprise at least 2, 3, or 4 times more wheels than a second carriage. A first carriage may be configured to engage with a number of railings that is at least 2, 3, or 4 times more than a second carriage. The first wheel amount and the second carriage may be included in the movement system of the material dispensing mechanism. The first carriage may be disposed on an opposite side of a framing than the second carriage. The first carriage may be configured to engage with railing(s) disposed on one side of the processing chamber, and the second carriage may be configured to engage with railing(s) disposed on a second side of the processing chamber opposing the first side.

[0313] In some embodiments, the railing, material dispensing mechanism and its movement system may be disposed in the processing chamber, e.g., during printing. In some embodiments, an actuator causes translation of the movement system. For example, the movement system (e.g., the carriage) may be operatively coupled to a translation inducer. The translation inducer may comprise a chain, belt, or an actuator (e.g., motor). For example, the translation inducer can comprise a belt or a chain, e.g., operatively coupled to an actuator (e.g., motor). The belt (e.g., conveyor belt) may comprise teeth. The belt may be cleated. The actuator may be disposed externally to the processing chamber. For example, the actuator may be disposed on an opposing side of the wall as the railing. The actuator may be disposed on a side closer to the processing chamber door, or far from the processing chamber door.

[0314] Fig. 15 shows an example of a portion of a 3D printing system comprising an enclosure 1501 housing a guidance system of the energy beam (e.g., optical system of at least one laser), an ancillary chamber (e.g., garage) 1502, processing chamber 1506, base (e.g.., build plate 1505), portion of a build module 1504, gas flow area 1503 and translation facilitator comprising a belt/chain guided by a rotating wheel (e.g., gear) 1508. The translation facilitator is operatively coupled to a layer dispensing mechanism 1507, the translation facilitator being configured to facilitate translation of the layer dispensing mechanism 1507 along a floor of processing chamber 1506, e.g., and along the build plate 1505. A portion comprising one or more viewing windows is schematically designated as 1511, and is disposed on a face of processing chamber 1506 facing the translation facilitator 1507. The viewing window(s) are configured to allow a user disposed externally to the processing chamber, to view the interior of the processing chamber, e.g., above the build plate, or the exposed surface of the build plate.

[0315] In some embodiments, a hard portion (e.g., pipe) of the channel is disposed in the same horizontal plane. In some embodiments, a hard portion (e g., pipe) of the channel traverses between horizontal planes, for example, a hard portion may start an upper horizontal plane and end at a lower horizontal plane, or vice versa. The channel may have at least one hard portion within a horizontal plane. The channel may have at least one hard portion traversing horizontal planes.

[0316] Fig. 15 shows in 1550 an example of a side view of a portion of a 3D printing system having a material reservoir 1551 (e.g., doser) having a central axis 1560, which material reservoir is configmed to dispense (e.g., a measured amount of pre-transformed material) to the layer dispensing mechanism, once it is in a designated portion (e.g., below material reservoir 1551) in garage 1552. A movement facilitator having a bclt/chain 1581 is engaged with its guides such as 1582. A build module 1553 is engaged with the processing chamber 1554, which build module include a substrate and a base. Positions 1580a and 1580b designate various positions until which the layer dispensing mechanism and/or the movement system can traverse to, with the opening of the processing chamber (e.g., door and/or window) being referred to by numeral 1588. Fig. 15 shows in 1550 a portion of the 3D printing system in relation to gravitational vector 1590 pointing to gravitational center G.

[0317] In some embodiments, as one or more three-dimensional objects are being printed in a processing chamber (e.g., in a printing cycle) using an energy beam (e.g., laser beam), the energy beam may reflect from an exposed surface of the material bed onto one or more viewing window(s). A portion of the 3D object(s) may be at and/or extend above an average surface and/or a planarized surface of a material bed. The energy beam may impinge upon exposed portion(s) of the material bed (e.g., and any exposed 3D object portion disposed therein) and reflect toward portion(s) of a processing chamber, e.g., processing chamber side(s). A portion of the processing chamber to which the energy beam may reflect toward (e.g., a processing chamber side) may comprise one or more viewing windows. The viewing window(s) may be employed to allow a user (e.g., 1205 in Fig. 12) to look through the viewing window(s) to see into the processing chamber. Thus, the viewing window(s) may comprise a material that facilitates transmission of at least a portion of tire visible wavelength. The Energy beam energy reflected and subsequently transmitted through the viewing window(s) may have a potential to adversely affect a tissue of tire user (e.g., eye tissue) when the energy beam interacts with the tissue. The viewing window may be part of a window assembly. The window assembly may comprise a medium configured to absorb most of the energy beam, e.g., as disclosed herein. At times, the energy beam reflected towards the window is sufficiently intense to damages the medium on interaction. For example, the energy beam may create damage to the medium comprising a tear or a hole. For example, upon interaction with the medium, the energy beam may cause the medium to have diminished ability to absorb the energy beam, as compared to a medium before its interaction with the energy beam. Such diminished ability and/or defective medium may increase a risk of harm to the user’s tissue. A portion of the energy beam impinging upon the viewing window assembly(ies) may be reflected so as to be prevented from passing through the viewing window assembly(ies). A portion of the energy impinging upon the viewing window assembly(ies) may be reflected to as to be prevented from passing through the window assembly(ies). The reflection of the energy beam toward the viewing window assembly(ies) may be at an angle (also referred to as an angle of incidence) of at least about 10 degrees (°), 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, or 70°. The reflection of the energy beam toward the viewing window assembly(ies) may be at an angle of at most about 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 50°, 55°, 60°, 65°, or 70°, 75°, or 80°. The reflection of the energy beam toward the viewing window assembly(ies) may be at an angle between any of the aforementioned angles (e.g., from about 10° to about 80°, from about 50° to about 70°, or from about 45° to about 75°). The reflection of the energy beam toward the viewing window assembly(ies) may be at an angle from about 45° to about 90°. The angle of reflection may be measured relative to a normal to a planar external surface of the window assembly, or relative to a floor plane of the processing chamber. A reflective coating may be disposed on a planar surface of the window assembly facing the interior of the processing chamber, e.g., to reflect energy beam directed onto the viewing window. The window assembly may be disposed along a vertical plane, or at an angle from the vertical plane. The angle may be at most about 1°, 2°, 3°, 4°, 5°, 7°, 10°, or 15° from a vertical plane. The angle of the reflection of the energy beam impinging upon a viewing window assembly may be at different angles based at least in part on the portion of the viewing window upon which it impinges. The angle of the reflection of the energy beam impinging upon a viewing window assembly may be at different angles based at least in part upon the location from which the energy beam is reflected (e.g., from the portion of the material bed). The ranges of angles of reflection of the energy beam impinging upon a viewing window assembly may depend upon (i) a shape of the viewing window assembly, (ii) distance of the viewing assembly from an exposed surface of the material bed, (iii) distance of the energy beam from the material bed, (iv) angle of the energy beam impinging on the material bed, (v) angle of reflection of the energy beam from the material bed, (vi) height of the processing chamber, (vii) height of a floor of the processing window to the window assembly, and/or (viii) angle of tilt of the window assembly from the vertical plane. For example, the ranges of angles of reflection of the energy beam impinging upon a viewing window assembly may depend at least in part upon a location of a viewing window(s) relative to a location of an exposed surface of a material bed in a specific processing chamber. For example, the ranges of angles of reflection of the energy beam impinging upon a viewing window may depend upon a shape of an exposed surface of a three-dimensional object.

[0318] Fig. 10 illustrates an example of a material bed 1010 having an exposed surface 1012 and resting on a build plate 1011. A portion of a first three-dimensional object 1014 extends above the exposed surface 1012. A second three-dimensional object 1015 includes a surface that is (e.g., substantially) flush with the exposed surface 1012.

[0319] In some embodiments, a processing chamber may include one or more optical windows through which one or more energy beams may be transmitted. Energy beams transmitted into a processing chamber may impinge upon a portion of an exposed surface of a material bed (e.g., including any 3D objects therein or protruding therefrom). A portion of the energy beam may be reflected from the exposed surface of the material bed toward viewing window assembly(ies). The reflected energy beam may be directed at an angle or a range of angles, impinging upon the viewing window assembly(ies) at the angle or at the range of angles.

[0320] Fig. 16 illustrates a perspective view example of a portion of a three-dimensional printing system portion 1600. The three-dimensional printing system portion 1600 comprises a processing chamber 1605. A base (e.g., build plate) 1 10 cooperatively engages with a floor 1635 of processing chamber 1 05. The build plate can be configured to support a material bed, e g., during printing of 3D object(s) in the material bed. The build plate is configmed to (e.g., stepwise) translate away from the processing chamber to facilitate increase of the material bed. 3D object(s) may be formed above the build plate 1610 in the material bed. Optical windows such as optical window 1615 (eight optical windows are illustrated in the example of Fig. 16) and sensor/projector windows 1620 (three illustrated in the example of Fig. 16) cooperatively engage with a ceiling 1636 of processing chamber 1605 which ceiling 1636 is disposed opposite from floor 1635 and from build plate 1610. Gas inlets 1622 cooperatively engage with nozzles such as 1624 that surround and hold each of the optical windows such as 1615, to direct gas into the processing chamber 1605 adjacent to the optical windows 1615. Energy beams may (e.g., each) be directed through the optical windows toward build plate 1610. Sensors and/or projectors may cooperatively engage with the sensor/projector windows 1620 to detect one or more conditions (e.g., planarity of the exposed surface of the material bed) in the processing chamber 1605, e.g., during printing. Processing chamber portion 1605 comprises a primary door having a secondary access 1625 and a viewing window 1630. The secondary access mechanism 1625 and viewing window assembly 1630 are part of the primary door, and are disposed adjacent to each other, which may allow a user to better see into processing chamber 1605, e.g., while reaching in through the secondary access mechanism 1625. Secondary access mechanism 1625 comprises a pair of openings 1632 configured to operatively couple to gloves with which a user may reach from outside of the processing chamber 1605 into the processing chamber 1605 without disturbing the atmosphere in the processing chamber that may differ from the external atmosphere in which the user is disposed. The viewing window assembly 1630 may allow for transmission of at least a portion of the visible spectrum of light, allowing a user outside of processing chamber 1605 to see into processing chamber 1605. The viewing window assembly 1630 can include a reflective coating disposed on an exposed surface of the viewing window assembly 1630 facing an interior of processing chamber 1605, which reflective coating is configured to reflect at least a portion of the energy beam radiation impinging on the viewing window 1630, while allowing for a user disposed outside of the processing chamber 1605 to see into the processing chamber 1605 during operation of the energy beams, without (e.g., substantial and/or detectable) harm to the tissue of the user (e.g., eye tissue). Window assembly 1630 is tilted at an angle 1637 from the (vertical) wall of the processing chamber into the processing chamber, e.g., to facilitate better ergonomics for the user such as while using the secondary access mechanism (e.g., including a glovebox and/or a secondary door). Angle 1637 is configured to facilitate the better (e.g., best) ergonomics to a user viewing an interior of the processing chamber such as viewing the exposed surface of the material bed, while facilitating printing of the 3D object(s) without disturbance (e.g., without hindering operation of the material dispensing mechanism (e g., recoater) such as during printing). Processing chamber 1605 comprises a primary door having handle assembly 1613.

[0321] Fig. 16 illustrates a perspective view example of a 3D printing system portion 1650. 3D printing system portion 1650 comprises a processing chamber 1655. A substrate (e.g., build plate) 16cooperatively engages with a floor 1660 of processing chamber 1655, e.g., in a similar manner to the one in processing chamber 1605. Optical windows such asl665 16cooperatively engage with a ceiling of processing chamber 1655 disposed opposite from processing chamber floor 1660. Energy beams directed through the optical windows such as 1665 toward the build plate 16may reflect toward a viewing window assembly 1680 at a range of angles 1685 and 1690 (also referred to herein as angles of incidence). Processing chamber 1605 comprises a primary access door including viewing window assembly 1680 and secondary access mechanism 1675. The secondary door 1675 and viewing window 1680 are disposed adjacent to each other as part of the primary door to the processing chamber. In some embodiments, the viewing window assembly is disposed separately from the secondary access mechanism. For example, the secondary access mechanism may be disposed on a side wall of the processing chamber, and the viewing window may be part of the primary door to the processing window. For example, the secondary access mechanism may be part of the primary door to the processing chamber, and the viewing window may be disposed on a side wall of the processing chamber. Viewing window assembly 1680 may allow for transmission of at least a portion of the visible spectrum of light, allowing a user outside of processing chamber 1655 to see into 16it. Viewing window assembly 1680 includes a reflective coating on a disposed on an exposed surface of viewing window assembly 1680 contacting the internal atmosphere of processing chamber 1655, which reflective coating may be configured to reflect at least a portion of the energy beam radiation impinging on viewing window assembly 1 80, at least at impinging angles between angles 1685 and 1690 inclusive, while still allowing for a user outside of the processing chamber 1655 to see into the processing chamber 1655 during operation of the energy beams. While the reflection of the energy beam between angles 1685 and 1690 (inclusive) illustrated in Fig. 16 are shown reflecting from the area occupied by the build plate 16, the reflection of the energy beam may be from a material bed (including any exposed surface of 3D object(s) exposed therefrom (see Fig. 10 for an example of a surface 1012 of a material bed 1010 and 3D object(s) 1016 and 1015 from which one or more energy beams may reflect). Angles 1685 and 1690 are measured with respect to lines 1686 and 1691 that are normal (e.g., perpendicular) to a planar surface (e.g., coated surface) of the viewing window assembly 1 80 or parallel to the normal. Window assembly 1680 is tilted at an angle 1681 from the (vertical) wall of the processing chamber in a direction into the processing chamber, e.g., to facilitate better ergonomics such as for the user looking toward the exposed surface of the material bed, e.g., while using the secondary access mechanism (e.g., including a door and/or glovebox). Angle 1681 is configured to facilitate the best ergonomics, while facilitating printing of the 3D object(s) without disturbance (e.g., without hindering operation of the material dispensing mechanism (e.g., recoater) such as during printing). Processing chamber 1655 comprises a primary door having handle assembly 1663. In Fig. 16, the 3D printing system components may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 1699 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0322] Fig. 17 illustrates a perspective view example of a portion of a 3D printing system portion 1700. The 3D printing system portion 1700 may comprise a processing chamber 1702. A build plate 1704 cooperatively engages with a wall of the processing chamber 1702. One or more 3D objects may be formed above the build plate 1704, e.g., in a printing cycle. Optical windows 1706 (two illustrated in the example of Fig. 17) are cooperatively engaged with a wall of the processing chamber 1702 (as part of the processing chamber ceiling), which optical windows 1706 are disposed opposite from build plate 1704 configured to support a material bed (not shown). Gas inlets 1707 cooperatively engage with the optical windows 1706 to direct gas into the processing chamber 1702 from openings (e g., nozzles) each disposed adjacent to each optical windows 1706 (e.g., respectively). Energy beams may (e g., each) be directed through the optical windows 1706 (e.g., respectively) toward the build plate 1704, e.g., during printing to print the 3D object(s) from the material bed. Processing chamber 1702 comprises a primary door having handle assembly 1713. The primary door includes a secondary access mechanism 1708 and three viewing window assemblies such as 1710. The secondary access mechanism 1708 may comprise a door. The secondary access mechanism may comprise openings such as 1712 configmed to couple to gloves that separate the internal atmosphere of processing chamber 1702 from an ambient atmosphere external to the processing chamber. Secondary access mechanism 1708 and viewing window assemblies 1710 may be adjacent. The secondary access mechanism 1708 may comprise a pair of openings such as opening 1712 through which a user (see for example, Fig. 12, 1205) may reach from outside of the processing chamber 1702 into the processing chamber 1702. Openings (e.g., 1712) may be operatively coupled to a separating membrane (e.g., gloves) that facilitates separation of the internal atmosphere of the processing chamber from an ambient atmosphere external to the processing chamber. The membrane may be flexible. The membrane may comprise a polymer or a resin. The atmosphere in the processing chamber may differ from the ambient atmosphere by one or more characteristics. The characteristics may comprise: temperature, concentration of at least one reactive agent, pressure, gas flow velocity, gas flow direction, or a concentration of an inert gas. The reactive agent may react during printing. The reactive agent may react with a starting (e.g., pre-transformed) material of the 3D object and/or with a forming 3D object (e g., external surface thereof). The reactive agent may comprise oxygen or water (e.g., humidity). The viewing window assemblies such as 1710 may allow for transmission of at least a portion of the visible spectrum of light therethrough, allowing a user outside of the processing chamber 1702 to see into the processing chamber 1702, e.g., to see the exposed surface of a material bed and/or a floor of the processing chamber. The viewing window assemblies such as 1710 may include a reflective coating on a surface of the viewing window assembly facing the interior of processing chamber 1702, which reflective coating may reflect at least a portion of the energy beam radiation impinging on the viewing window assembly (e.g., reflective surface thereof)17 while allowing for a user outside of the processing chamber 1702 to see into the processing chamber 1702 during operation of the energy beams without (e.g., substantial and/or detectable) damage to the user’s tissue (e.g., eye), e.g., over prolonged usage of the 3D printing system. The prolonged usage may comprise at least about 100 printing unit measurements (U), 500U, 1000U, 1700U, 2000U, 5000U, 10000U, 50000U, 100000U, or 1000000U. The printing unit measurements may comprise accumulated printing cycles, accumulated printing hours, accumulated printing weeks, or accumulated printing months. In the example shown in Fig. 17, viewing window assemblies (e.g., 1710) are disposed along a (e.g., vertical) wall of processing chamber 1702. The vertical wall is at, or parallel to, a vertical plane.

[0323] Fig. 17 illustrates a perspective view example of a 3D printing system portion 1730. The 3D printing system portion 1730 comprises a processing chamber 1732. A build plate 1734 cooperatively engages with a wall of the processing chamber 1732. Optical windows such as 1736 cooperatively engaged with a wall of the processing chamber 1732 as part of a ceiling disposed opposite from build plate 1734. Energy beams can be directed through each of the optical windows (e.g., 1736) toward the build plate 1734. The energy beams may reflect (e g., from an exposed surface of a material bed disposed above the build plate) toward viewing window assemblies such as 1738 at a range of angles 1740 and 1742 (also referred to herein as angles of incidence) measured relative to line 1746 and line 1743, which lines are normal to the viewing window assemblies, or parallel to the normal. The processing chamber 1732 comprises a secondary access mechanism 1744 having two access ports, one of them shown in the example of processing chamber 1732. The secondary access mechanism 1744 and viewing window assemblies (e.g., including viewing window assembly 1738) may be disposed adjacent to each other. The viewing window assemblies and secondary access mechanism of processing chamber 1734 are portions of a door having handle assembly 1745. The viewing window assemblies (e g., 1738) may allow for transmission of at least a portion of a visible spectrum of light, allowing a user outside of the processing chamber 1732 (e.g., a user at an ambient environment) to see into the processing chamber 1732, while being isolated from an environment in the processing chamber (e g., during printing). The viewing window assemblies (e.g., 1738) may include a reflective coating on an exposed surface of each of the viewing window 17assemblies, which exposed surface faces an interior of the processing chamber. The reflective coating may be configured to reflect at least a portion of the energy beam radiation impinging on the viewing window 17assembly, at least at impinging angles between angles 1740 and 1742 inclusive, while allowing a user disposed outside of the processing chamber 1732 to see into the processing chamber 1732 during operation of the energy beams, while being isolated from an internal environment of the processing chamber. While the reflection of the energy beam between angles 1740 and 1742 illustrated in Fig. 17 are shown reflecting from the build plate 1734, the reflection of the energy beam may be reflected from an exposed surface of a material bed including from any exposed surface of 3D object(s) protruding (e.g., sticking out) from the material bed (see Fig. 10 for an example of an exposed surface 1012 of a material bed 1010 and 3D objects 1014 and 1017 from which one or more energy beams may reflect).

[0324] Fig. 17 illustrates a side vertical cross-scctional example of a 3D printing system portion 1760. The 3D printing system portionl760 comprises a processing chamber 1762. A build plate 1764 cooperatively engages (e.g., to be flush) with a floor of the processing chamber 1762. Optical windows such as 1766 (two are shown in a 3D printing system portion 1760) are cooperatively engaged with a wall of the processing chamber 1762 as part of its ceiling, which all is disposed opposite from build plate 1764. Gas inlets such as 1776 cooperatively engage with nozzles such as 1778 surrounding each the optical windows 1766 respectively, to direct gas into the processing chamber 1762 and adjacent to the optical windowsl7. Energy beams can be directed through the optical windows 1766 in a direction toward the build plate 1764 (e.g., one energy beam directed through one optical window). The energy beams may toward viewing windows 1768 at a range of angles 1770 and 1772. The reflection of the energy beam (e.g., laser beam) may reflect from an exposed surface of a material bed disposed above the build plate (not shown), e.g., when the build plate translates away from the processing window an away from the optical windows, e.g., towards a gravitational center G. Processing chamber 1762 comprises a secondary access mechanism 1774. The secondary access mechanism 1774 and viewing window assembly 1768 may be disposed adjacent to each other, e.g., as part of a primary door 1775 of processing chamber 1762. Viewing window assembly 1768 may allow for transmission of at least a portion of the visible spectrum of light, allowing a user outside of the processing chamber 1762 to see into the processing chamber 1762, while being isolated for an internal environment of the processing chamber. The viewing window assembly 1768 may include a reflective coating on a surface of the viewing window assembly 1768. The reflective coating may reflect at least a portion of the energy beam radiation impinging on the viewing window assembly 1768, at least at impinging angles between angles 1770 and 1772 inclusive, while allowing for a user disposed outside of the processing chamber 1762 (e.g., in an ambient environment) to see into the processing chamber 1762 during operation of the energy beams, while being isolated from an internal environment of the processing chamber. While the reflection of the energy beam between angles 1770 and 1772 illustrated in Fig. 17 are shown reflecting from the build plate 1764, the reflection of the energy beam may be from an exposed surface of a material bed including from any exposed surface of 3D object protruding from the exposed surface of the material bed (see Fig. 10 for an example of an exposed surface 1012 of a material bed 1010 and 3D objects 1014 and 1017 from which one or more energy beams may reflect). Angle 1770 is measured relative from normal 1771 of an exposed surface of viewing window assembly 1768 facing an interior of the processing chamber. Angle 1772 is measured relative from line 1773 that is parallel to normal 1771. In Fig. 17, the 3D printing system components may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 1799 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0325] In some embodiments, a processing chamber may comprise a viewing window assembly allowing for a user to see into the processing chamber while being (i) disposed outside of the processing chamber and (ii) isolated from an internal environment of the processing chamber. The internal environment of the processing chamber may comprise a gaseous atmosphere, starting (e.g., pre -transformed) material, and debris. The debris may float in an environment (e.g., in the atmosphere) of the processing chamber. The debris may be generated during printing. For example, the debris may comprise soot, slag, spatter, splatter, dust, or fused particles (e.g., powder) that do not form a 3D object.

[0326] . The starting material may comprise pulvcrous material (e.g., powder). A processing chamber may allow for a gas pressure that is different from (e.g., above) ambient pressure outside of the processing chamber (e.g., in an ambient environment). The atmosphere in the processing chamber may differ from an ambient atmosphere external to the processing chamber, e.g., in gas makeup, gas velocity, gas flow direction, temperature (e.g., gas temperature), in debris makeup, and/or in debris concerlation. The gas makeup may include concentration of (i) a reactive species and/or (ii) an inert gas. The reactive species may react with a starting material and/or surface of a 3D object(s) (e.g., during its formation). A viewing window assembly may operatively engage a processing chamber to seal an internal environment of the processing chamber, e.g., to facilitate an internal environment in the processing chamber that is different from the ambient environment by one or more characteristics, e.g., as disclosed herein. For example, the viewing window assembly(ies) may facilitate a higher gas pressure in the processing chamber as compared to an ambient pressure outside of the processing chamber. For example, the viewing window assembly(ies) may facilitate a higher concentration of inert gas (e.g., Argon and/or Nitrogen) in the processing chamber as compared to an ambient air outside of the processing chamber. For example, the viewing window assembly(ies) may facilitate a lower concentration of reactive agents (e.g., oxygen and/or water vapor) in the processing chamber as compared to that in an ambient atmosphere outside of the processing chamber. For example, the viewing window assembly(ies) may facilitate a higher concentration of debris in the processing chamber as compared to that in an ambient atmosphere outside of the processing chamber. A processing chamber may comprise one or more optical window assemblies that allow for one or more energy beams to be directed through the optical windows into the processing chamber (e.g., one energy beam per one optical window). The one or more energy beams may be any energy beam disclosed herein. 17During operations conducted within the processing chamber (e.g., during printing 3D object(s)), energy beam(s) impinging upon surface(s) in the processing chamber may reflect toward one or more viewing windows. Portions of one or more energy beams impinging upon an exposed surface of a material bed that is a powder bed may reflect diffused reflected radiation. Portions of one or more energy beams impinging upon a portion of one or more objects may specularly reflect (e.g., act as a mirror) a portion of the energy beam radiation onto the viewing window assemblies. Energy beams reflected toward the one or more windows may impinge upon the viewing window assemblies at various angles of incidence. [0327] The processing chamber may comprise one or more viewing window assemblies. The viewing window assembly may comprise materials (e.g., material layers) that absorbs, reflect (at least in part) the energy beam(s) impinging upon the viewing window assembly. A material of a viewing window assembly may comprise an energy beam absorbent medium (e g , configured as an absorbent layer). An energy beam absorbent medium may have a high optical density in one spectral region, while facilitating transmission of another spectral region. For example, the absorbent medium may absorb an infrared region of light, while allowing a portion of (e.g., blue) visible light to pass through. The absorbent medium may comprise a polymer or a resin. For example, an energy beam absorbent medium may a composition of polycarbonate. An energy beam absorbent medium may filter our red and green in the visible spectrum, resulting in a blue appearance. An energy beam absorbent layer may filter out electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of at least about 1,000 nanometers (nm). An energy beam absorbent layer may filter out electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of at most about 2,500 nm. An energy beam absorbent layer may filter out electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength between the aforementioned wavelength values (e.g., from about lOOOnm to about 2500nm). The window assembly may comprise a medium configured to absorb most of the energy beam, e.g., as disclosed herein. For example, an energy beam absorbent medium may reduce transmittance intensity of the energy beam through the medium to at least about 30 percent (%), 50%, 70%, 90%, 95%, 98%, or 99% of an intensity of light impinging upon the energy beam absorbent medium. An energy beam absorbent medium may reduce transmittance intensity of the energy beam through the medium relative to intensity of light impinging upon the energy beam absorbent medium between the aforementioned percentage values (e.g., from about 30% to about 99%, from about 30% to about 95%, or from about 50% to ab out 99%). For example, an energy beam absorbent medium may reduce a transmittance intensity of the energy beam through the absorbent medium to at least about 9 order of magnitude (OM), 8 OM, 10 OM, 11 OM, or 12 OM as compared to without the absorbent medium. An energy beam absorbent medium may reduce transmittance intensity' of the energy beam through the medium by any order of magnitude between the aforementioned orders of magnitude (e.g., from about 8 OM to about 12 OM, from about 10OM to about 12OM) as compared to without the absorbent medium. A material of a viewing window assembly may comprise a partially reflective coating (e g., layer(s) thereof). The partially reflective coating may comprise one or more layers. A partially reflective coating may be applied to another member of the viewing window assembly. A partially reflective coating may be referred to as a “hot mirror coating”. A (e.g., large) cross section of the viewing window assembly may comprise various shapes, for example, a convex geometric shape comprising a rectangle (e.g., square) or an ellipse (e.g., circle). The shape of the cross section of the viewing window assembly may have a FL S (e.g., diameter or height) of at least about 2 inches (”), 3”, 5”, 6”, 7”, 8”, or 9”. The shape of the cross section of the viewing window assembly may have a FLS (e.g., diameter or height) of at most about 3”, 5”, 6”, 7”, or 8”. The shape of the cross section of the viewing window assembly may have a FLS between any of the aforenoted FLS values (e.g., from about 2” to about 9”, or from about 3” to about 8”). The window of the viewing window assembly may comprise a translucent material such as for example, quartz, Sapphire and/or fused silica. [0328] In some embodiments, the 3D printing system comprises at least one window. The window (e.g., optical window and/or viewing window) can be made of any suitable material configured to allow at least a portion of an energy beam and/or electromagnetic radiation to pass therethrough. For example, the material can be (e g., substantially) transparent to at least a portion of the wavelengths of the energy beam. For example, the material can be (e.g., substantially) transparent to at least a portion of the visible spectrum (e.g., to an average person). The portion may be at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of the wavelengths or spectrum. In some cases, the window is comprised of an optical material having high thermal conductivity, e.g., as having any value of high thermal conductivity disclosed herein. For example, a suitable material having a thermal conductivity of at least (e.g., about) 1.5 W/m°C (Watts per meter per degree Celsius) 2 W/m°C, 2.5 W/m°C, 3 W/m°C, 3.5 W/m°C, 4 W/m°C , 4.5 W/m°C , 5 W/m°C, 5.5 W/m°C, 6 W/m°C, 7 W/m°C, 8 W/m°C, 9 W/m°C, 10 W/m°C, or 20 W/m°C, at 300 K (Kelvin). The material can have a thermal conductivity ranging between any of the afore-mentioned values (e.g., from about 1.5 W/m°C to about 20 W/m°C, from about 1.5 W/m°C to about 5 W/m°C, or from about 5 W/m°C to about 20 W/m°C. In some embodiments, the high thermally conductivity material comprises sapphire, crystal quartz, zinc selenide (ZnSe), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), or calcium fluoride (CaF2). In some embodiments, the window comprises fused silica. In some embodiments, the window comprises a material having a higher thermal conductivity than that of fused silica (e.g., about 1.38 W/m°C). Some materials may have birefringent properties that make them less suitable for optical lens(es), but may be suitable for windows. For example, in some embodiments, those materials having significantly different coefficients of thermal expansion depending on crystal orientation may not be as suitable for lens(es) (e.g., magnesium fluoride (MgF2), calcium fluoride (CaF2), and sapphire). In some embodiments, the 3D system (e.g., processing chamber) comprises comprise an odd number of windows. In some embodiments, the 3D system (e.g., processing chamber) comprises an even number of windows. In some embodiments, the windows comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 35 windows. At least tw o windows may be of the same type (e.g., viewing windows). At least two windows may be of different types (e.g., a viewing window and an optical window). The viewing window may be configmed for user viewing. The optical window may be configured to transmittance of an energy beam, e g., used in 3D printing.

[0329] The window may facilitate formation (e g., may form) of a barrier between an environment (e g., an atmosphere) in the processing chamber and ambient environment (e.g., atmosphere) outside of the processing chamber. For example, the window may facilitate formation of a pressure barrier between gasses inside the processing chamber and ambient atmosphere outside of the processing chamber. For example, the window may facilitate formation of a temperature barrier between temperatures inside the processing chamber and ambient atmosphere outside of the processing chamber. The window may facilitate formation of a reactive agent barrier between gasses in the chamber and ambient atmosphere outside of the processing chamber. A partially reflective coating may be disposed on a surface of a component of the viewing window assembly, e.g., facing an interior of the processing chamber. The surfaced may be an exposed surface of the viewing window assembly. The surface may be an exposed surface of the window that is part of tire viewing window assembly. For example, a partially reflective coating may be disposed on a surface of the window facing the interior of the processing chamber. For example, a partially reflective coating may be a separate (e.g., standalone) member in a window assembly. For example, a partially reflective coating may be disposed on a surface of a window assembly component other than the window. For example, a partially reflective coating may be disposed on a surface of the absorbent medium. A partially reflective coating may face an interior of a processing chamber. A partially reflective coating may act as a beam splitter and/or a half-reflective mirror. A partially reflective coating may comprise a changed composition, thickness and/or number of layers, e.g., to change reflectivity and/or transmissivity of the reflected energy beam impinging upon the viewing window assembly. A partially reflective coating may include Germanium, dielectric coating (magnesium fluoride, calcium fluoride, metal oxides), dichroic optical coating, aluminum, silver and/or gold. A partially reflective coating may be partially reflective in a region of the spectrum, while still allowing a portion of other regions of the spectrum to pass through. For example, a partially reflective coating may be partially reflective in an infrared region of light, while still allowing a portion of visible light to pass through. A partially reflective coating may be partially reflective based at least in part on angle(s) of incidence at which a reflected energy beam impinges on the viewing window assembly(ies), e.g., reflected to the viewing window assembly(ies). Angles of incidence at which a reflected energy beam impinges on the viewing window assemblies may be based al least in part upon angles of reflection from one or more objects and/or surfaces in the processing chamber. One or more objects may comprise 3D printed object(s). A surface in the processing chamber may comprise an exposed surface of a material bed from which 3D object(s) were, are or and/or will be printed. A partially reflective coating may be positioned closer to an interior of the processing chamber than an energy beam absorbent medium (e.g. film and/or layer). A partially reflective coating positioned closer to the interior or the processing chamber than an energy absorbent medium may prevent or reduce the risk of the energy absorbent layer being damaged due to one or more reflected energy beams impinging upon the viewing window assembly of which the absorbent medium is part of. The reduced risk of damage to an energy absorbent medium may be relative to a window assembly without a partially reflective coating. A partially reflective coating and/or an energy beam absorbent medium may reduce or eliminate a risk of damage to a tissue (e.g., eye tissue) of a user viewing into the processing chamber through the viewing window assembly , while energy beams are being transmitted into the processing chamber (e g., during 3D printing). The reduced risk of damage to the user’s tissue may be relative to a viewing window assembly without a partially reflective coating and/or energy beam absorbent layer.

[0330] Fig. 18 illustrates an example of a viewing window assembly 1800. The viewing window assembly 1800 comprises a mounting plate 1802, which is configured to operatively engage a processing chamber (such as for example the processing chamber 1502 illustrated in Fig. 15). Mounting plate fasteners (e.g., screws) such as 1804 couple to the mounting plate 1802 to secure the mounting plate 1802 to a processing chamber wall or door (e.g., primary door). In the example illustrated in Fig. 18, the mounting plate 1802 includes three viewing window assembly cutouts such as 1806 arranged in a single horizontal file. The viewing window assembly cutouts support three viewing window assemblies such as 1808 (two shown assembled and one shown in an exploded view). Each viewing window assembly includes a first seal (e.g., an O-ring) such as 1810 that creates sealing around the periphery of the window cutout such as 1806 and a window such as 1812. The window 1812 may be made of, for example, translucent quartz, Sapphire, or fused silica. The window 1812 comprises a partially reflective coating 1814 disposed on a surface of the window 1812 facing into a processing chamber. The reflective coating 1814 can be partially infrared reflective (acting as a beam splitter or half-reflective mirror relative to infrared radiation impinging upon the window 1812). The partially reflective coating 1814 may allow for a portion of visible light impinging upon the viewing window 1808 to pass through, allowing for a user disposed outside of the processing chamber to view an interior of the processing chamber. The reflective coating 1814 may be configured to act as a beam splitter based at least in part on the angles of incidence of the reflected energy beams impinging upon the window. An energy beam absorbent material (e.g. absorbent medium) 1816 is disposed adjacent to the window 1812. The energy beam absorbent material 1816 may be made of, for example, a polycarbonate material that is partially transparent to visible light. A second seal (e.g., O-ring) 1818 extends around the periphery of the energy beam absorbent material 1816, with a window holder 1820 operatively engaging the seal 1818. The window holder 1820 is secured to the mounting plate 1802 (e.g., with fasteners 1822). The window holder, frame, and/or fastener may comprise an elemental metal, metal alloy, a ceramic, or an allotrope of elemental carbon. The first and/or second seal may be any seal disclosed herein. The first and/or second seal may comprise a polymer or a resin. The first and/or second seal may be gas tight seal(s).

[0331] In some embodiments, a processing chamber may comprise a wall having one or more viewing window assemblies allowing a user outside of the processing chamber to see into the processing chamber without being exposed to an internal environment of the processing chamber. A processing chamber may comprise a wall comprising one or more secondary access mechanisms configured to allow a user outside of the processing chamber to (e.g., selectively) reach into the processing chamber, e.g., and perform various manual operations. The secondary access mechanism may comprise a closure such as a seal, a door, or a flap. The secondary access mechanism may comprise a flexible material (e.g., membrane), e.g., comprising a polymer or a resin (e.g., a glove). The flexible material may contact the internal environment of the processing chamber, e.g., before and/or after the printing. A processing chamber may comprise a control interface, e.g., disposed adjacent to, or as part of, the processing chamber, which control interface may allow a user to control activities within the processing chamber and/or other assemblies that operatively engage the processing chamber. One or more viewing window assemblies may be located adjacent to the secondary access mechanism, which may allow a user to reach into the processing chamber (e g., when the secondary access mechanism is open) while looking into the processing chamber through the one or more viewing windows. A user interface may be disposed adjacent to a primary door, one or more viewing window assemblies, and/or a secondary access mechanism. The user interface may be operatively coupled to the secondary access mechanism. The user interface may allow to change a status of operations based at least in part on status of the processing chamber (e.g., operative status). The user interface may be operatively coupled to a processor and/or controller (e.g., as part of a control system, e.g., as disclosed herein). The user interface may facilitate inspection of a status of one or more operations taking place in the processing chamber, e.g., while allowing or preventing user access to the processing chamber at least in part by opening or shutting the secondary access mechanism respectively. The control system may be a hierarchical control system (e.g., comprising three or more hierarchical control levels). The control system controlling the primary door, and/or the secondary access mechanism, may control one or more additional components of the 3D printing system. The control system controlling the primary door, and/or the secondary access mechanism, may be operatively coupled to at least one controller configured to control one or more other components of the 3D printing system.

[0332] Fig. 19 illustrates an example of a front view of a portion of a 3D printing system 1900 having a portion of a side wall 1902. 3D system portion 1900 includes a processing chamber having a primary door 1903 configured to swivel about hinges such as 1901. Viewing window assemblies such as 1904 are disposed as part of the primary door 1903. The viewing window assemblies can allow for a user (e.g., 1195 of Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber. In the example of Fig. 19, three viewing window assemblies are shown arranged in a single horizontal file as part of door 1903. A secondary access mechanism 1906 is disposed below the viewing window assemblies. The secondary access mechanism 1906 comprises a panel 1908 (e.g., secondary door) that is pivotally secured to the door 1903 by hinges such as 1910 on a first edge and a pair of latches such as 1912 on an opposing edge of panel 1908. Releasing the latches 1912 may allow a user to pivot the door panel 1908 towards tire user and/or downward, giving the user access to reach into the processing chamber (e.g., without exposing an environment of the processing chamber to the user). More than one secondary access mechanism and more than one set of hinges and latches may be employed with the processing chamber (e.g., with the primary door and/or separate from the primary door). A user interface 1914 (e.g., a screen coupled to a control system) is disposed on the wall portion 1902 adjacent to the primary door 1903, to the viewing window assemblies and the secondary access mechanism 1906. Primary door 1903 is equipped with a handle 1915 configured to lock the door on closure and facilitate in its opening. Wall portion 1902 comprises lighting 1917 that may be configured to indicate status of the 3D printer (e.g., idle, printing, purging, malfunction, openable, etc.). Wall portion 1902 includes indicators comprising at least one of a lighting and a knob (e.g., button) 1916 that may be configured to indicate status of various components of the 3D printer, as well as an emergency shutoff button. The indicators may indicate operation of the energy beam(s), sensor status, reactive species level (e.g., oxygen and/or humidity), a reset button, an emergency shutoff button (e.g., an Emergency Machine Off (EMO) knob), primary door lock/unlock, secondary door lock/unlock, and manual system stop. At least two of the indicators may be different. At least two of the indicators may be the same. The Screen 1914 may comprise touch screen functionality. Screen 1914 may be configured to operatively coupled to component(s) comprising a controller (e.g., as part of a control system), a processor, or an input device. The input device may comprise an electronic mouse, a pointer, a stylus, a keyboard, a touch pad, a microphone, or a camera. The input device may comprise any input device disclosed herein. Wall portion 1902 includes an indicator gauge 1919 that indicts gas flow (e.g., to optical window(s)).

[0333] Fig. 19 illustrates an example of a processing chamber portion 1930 having a primary door panel 1932. Three viewing window assemblies such as 1934 are disposed in a single horizontal file on the primary door 1932, which viewing window assemblies may be configured to allow for a user (e.g., 1195, Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber, (e.g., during operation therein) while being separated from an internal environment of the processing chamber. A secondary access mechanism 1936 is disposed below the viewing window assemblies. The secondary access mechanism 1936 may comprise a secondary door panel 1938 that is pivotally secured to the primary door panel 1932 by hinges such as 1940 disposed on a first edge of panel 1938, and a pair of latches such as 1942 disposed on an opposed edge of the secondary door panel 1938. Releasing the latches such as 1942 may allow a user to pivot the secondary door panel 1938 towards the user and/or downward, the opening of secondary door panel 1938 may provide the user with access to reach into the processing chamber, e.g., while keeping the ambient environment outside the processing chamber separate from an internal environment of the processing chamber. More than one secondary access mechanism, one or more (e.g., more than three) viewing window assemblies, more than one of hinge (e.g., more than two hinges) and/or more than one latch (e.g., more than two latches) may be employed with the processing chamber (e.g., with the primary door panel 1932, and/or secondary door panel 1938).

[0334] Fig. 19 illustrates an example of a processing chamber portion 1960 having a primary door panel 1962. Three viewing window assemblies such as 1964 arc disposed in primary door panel 1962, which may allow for a user (e g., 1195, Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber, e.g., during operation. A secondary access mechanism 1966 is disposed below the viewing window assemblies. The secondary access mechanism 1966 may comprise a secondary panel 1968 that is configured to pivotally secure to the primary door panel 1962 by hinges 1970 disposed on a first edge and a pair of latches 1972 disposed on an opposed edge of the secondary door panel 1968. Releasing the latches 1972 may allow a user to pivot the secondary door panel 1968 towards the user and/or downward, and may provide the user with access to reach into the processing chamber, e.g., while maintaining a separation between the user and the internal atmosphere of the processing chamber (e.g., during processing such as during printing). In Fig. 19, the 3D printing system components may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 1999 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0335] In some embodiments, a processing chamber may have one or more panes (e.g., viewing window assemblies). At least one of the one or more panes (e.g., viewing window assemblies) may be configured in a door, e.g., of the processing chamber. At least one of the one or more panes (e.g., viewing window assemblies) may be configured in a wall, floor, and/or celling of the processing chamber. For example, Fig. 19 shows three viewing window assemblies such as 1964 disposed in a primary door 1962 of a processing chamber. For example, Fig. 20 shows three panes (e.g., viewing window assembly 2002) disposed in a primary door 2001. The panes (e.g., viewing window assembly(ies)) may be configured to be disposed flush with one face of the door (e.g., an internal face and/or an external face). The panes (e.g., viewing window assembly(ies)) may be configured to be recessed into a face of the door (e.g., an internal face and/or an external face). Fig. 19 shows door 1962 in which viewing window assemblies such as 1964 are recessed relative to the external face of primary door 1962, which recess is in a thickness 1980. Fig. 20 shows primary door panel 2001 in which panes such 2002, 2004, and 2005 are slightly recessed relative to the external planar face of primary door 2001. The recessed portion (e.g., rectangular recessed portion) may be configured to accommodate the panes (e.g., viewing window assemblies) disposed at the primary door. The recessed portion may have sharp or curved edges. Fig. 19 shows an example of a recessed portion having thickness 1980 and curved edges such as edge 1981. Fig. 20 shows an example of a recessed portion having curved edges such as edge in which panes 2004, 2005, and 2002 are disposed. The panes (e.g., viewing window assemblies) may be configured to be recessed into a face of the processing chamber wall (e.g., an internal face and/or an external face). The recessed portion (e.g., rectangular recessed portion) may be configured to accommodate the panes (e.g., viewing window assemblies) disposed at the processing chamber wall (e g., side wall). The recessed portion may have sharp or curved edges.

[0336] In some embodiments, the door includes a set of (e g., three) panes disposed in a single horizontal file. The panes may be evenly spaced along the single file. At least one of the panes may comprise a window (e.g., a window assembly). For example, figure 19 shows a door 1930 having three window assemblies such as window assembly 1943 that are arranged in a single horizontal file and are evenly spaced. The panes may be disposed above a secondary access mechanism. The set of panes may be disposed in a single file parallel to an edge of the secondary access mechanism (e.g., parallel to the secondary door). For example, Fig. 19 shows a set of three panes (e.g., window assembly 1934) arranged in a single file that is disposed parallel to a horizontal edge of secondary door panel 1938. For example, Fig. 20 shows a set of three panes (e.g., window assembly 2002) arranged in a single file that is disposed parallel to a horizontal edge of secondary door panel 2003. At least one of the panes of tire set of panes may be transparent (e.g., window assembly 2002). At least one of the panes of the set of panes may be opaque. For example, panes 2004 and 2005 in the example shown in Fig. 20, are opaque. At least one of the pane may include a mark. The mark may be indicative of at least one characteristic of a 3D system of which the panes are part of. The mark can comprise a drawing or a writing. The mark can comprise alphanumeric character(s). For example, the mark may designate the material utilized by the 3D printing system onto which the pane is attached. For example, the mark may designate the generation and/or type of 3D printing system to which it is attached. The mark may designate the maker and/or the name of the 3D printing system (e.g., logo). The mark may be visible to the user. The mark may be embossed, drawn, painted, or protruding from a plane of the pane. The mark may comprise a rougher or a smoother surface relative to the rest of the exposed surface of the pane. Fig. 20 shows an example of pane 2004 and 2005 each having alphanumeric marks, of which pane 2005 is indicative of the material that the 3D printing system is designed to print, namely Inconel 718 abbreviated as “IN 718.” The pane may include a material comprising glass, quartz, silica (e.g., fused silica), sapphire, metal, polymer, resin, stone, ceramic, salt, or an allotrope of elemental carbon. In some embodiments, the 3D printing system is configured to print a material type, and at least one pane comprises the material type (e.g., is made of the material type).

[0337] Fig. 20 illustrates an example of a processing chamber portion having a primary door panel 2001. Three rectangular panes 2002, 2004, 2005, with one being a transparent window assembly disposed in rectangular panel 2002 and two (2004 and 2005) being opaque plaques. The three panes are disposed in primary door panel 2001. The window assembly disposed in rectangular panel 2002 may allow for a user (e.g., 1205, Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber to which the primary door panel 2001 is connected to, e.g., during operation. A secondary access mechanism is disposed below the three rectangle panels 2002, 2004, and 2005. The secondary access mechanism comprises a panel 2003 configured to pivotally secure to the secondary door panel 2003 to primary door panel 2001 by hinges 2009 disposed on a first edge and a pair of latches 2008 disposed on an opposed edge of panel 2003. Releasing latches 2008 may allow a user to pivot door panel 2003 towards the user and/or downward, and may provide the user with access to reach beyond door panel 2001, e g., into the processing chamber, such as while maintaining a separation between the user and the internal atmosphere of the processing chamber (e.g., during processing such as during printing). Primary door panel 2001 comprises three hinges 2010 that facilitates its connection, e.g., to a wall of a processing chamber. The primary door 2001 is connected to a handle assembly 2006 (e g., ergonomic handle assembly) having a pivoting handle 2007 that can pivot to open and close primary door 2001. Handle assembly 2006 includes a stationary handle 2012 that allows engagement of a user’s fingers. Handle assembly 2006 includes thumb rest 2011 that allows pressing a user’s arm onto it. In Fig. 20, the door panel may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 2099 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0338] In some embodiments, the primary door of the processing window comprises one or more panels. The panels can have a geometric shape comprising a rectangle (e.g., square), or an ellipse (e g., circle). The rectangle can comprise sharp or round edges. The rectangle can have edges that are more or less round. The roundness of an edge of the edges may have a diameter. The roundness of the edges of the rectangle may be (e.g., substantially) the same. The diameter may be at most about 90%, 80%, 70%, 50%, 25%, 10%, or 5% of the length of the straight portion of tire long side of the rectangle. A ratio between the long axis a and tire short axis b of the ellipse (a:b) may be at most about 2: 1, 1.5: 1, or 1.25: 1.

[0339] Fig. 21 shows various examples of processing chamber portions having a primary door panels. In Fig. 21, the door panel(s) may be aligned with respect to gravitational vector 2199 pointing towards gravitational center G.

[0340] For example, door panel 2101 includes three rectangular panes 2102, 2104, 2105. The three panes are disposed in primary door panel 2101. The window assembly disposed in rectangular panel 2102 may allow for a user (e.g., 1215, Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber to which the primary door panel 2101 is connected to, e.g., during operation. Each of rectangular panels 2102, 2104, and 2105 has a rounded edge such as 2116 having a diameter. The rectangle 2105 has a long side having a straight portion 2115. A secondary access mechanism is disposed below the three rectangles 2102, 2104, and 2105. The secondary access mechanism comprises a panel 2103 configured to pivotally secure to the primary door panel 2101 by hinges 2109 disposed on a first edge and a pair of latches 2108 disposed on an opposed edge of panel 2103. Releasing latches 2108 may allow a user to pivot door panel 2103 towards the user and/or downward, and may provide the user with access to reach beyond door panel 2101 , e g., into the processing chamber, such as while maintaining a separation between the user and the internal atmosphere of the processing chamber (e.g., during processing such as during printing). Primary door panel 2101 comprises three hinges 2110 that facilitates its connection, e g., to a wall of a processing chamber. The primary door 2101 is connected to a handle assembly 2106 (e.g., ergonomic handle assembly) having a pivoting handle 2107 that can pivot to open and close primary door 2101. Handle assembly 2106 includes a stationary handle 2112 that allows engagement of a user’s fingers. Handle assembly 2106 includes thumb rest 2111 that allows pressing a user’s arm onto it. Each of rectangular panes 2114 and 2115 may or may not include a window assembly. Each of rectangular panes 2114 and 2115 may or may not be transparent. Each of rectangular panes 2114 and 2115 may or may not be opaque.

[0341] For example, door panel 2131 includes three rectangular panes 2132, 2134, 2135. The three panes are disposed in primary door panel 2131. The window assembly 2132 may allow for a user (e.g., 1215, Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber to which the primary door panel 2131 is connected to, e.g., during operation. Each of rectangular panels 2132, 2134, and 2135 has a rounded edge such as 2146 having a diameter 2147. The rectangle 2135 has a long side having a straight portion 2145. A secondary access mechanism is disposed below the three rectangles 2132, 2134, and 2135. The secondary access mechanism comprises a panel 2133 configured to pivotally secure to the primary door panel 2131 by hinges 2139 disposed on a first edge and a pair of latches 2138 disposed on an opposed edge of panel 2133. Releasing latches 2138 may allow a user to pivot door panel 2133 towards the user and/or downward, and may provide the user with access to reach beyond door panel 2131, e.g., into the processing chamber, such as while maintaining a separation between the user and the internal atmosphere of the processing chamber (e.g., during processing such as during printing). Primary door panel 2131 comprises three hinges 2140 that facilitates its connection, e g., to a wall of a processing chamber. The primary door 2131 is connected to a handle assembly 2136 (e.g., ergonomic handle assembly) having a pivoting handle 2137 that can pivot to open and close primary door 2131. Handle assembly 2136 includes a stationary handle 2142 that allows engagement of a user’s fingers. Handle assembly 2136 includes thumb rest 2141 that allows pressing a user’s arm onto it. Each of rectangular panes 2134 and 2135 may or may not include a window assembly. Each of rectangular panes 2134 and 2135 may or may not be transparent. Each of rectangular panes 2134 and 2135 may or may not be opaque.

[0342] For example, door panel 2151 includes three elliptical panes 2152, 2154, 2155. The three panes are disposed in primary door panel 2151. The window assembly disposed in elliptical pane 2152 may allow for a user (e.g., 1215, Fig. 12) to see into the processing chamber to which the primary door panel 2151 is connected to, e.g., during operation. A secondary access mechanism is disposed below the three elliptical panels 2152, 2154, and 2155. The secondary access mechanism comprises a panel 2153 configured to pivotally secure to the primary door panel 2153 by hinges 2159 disposed on a first edge and a pair of latches 2158 disposed on an opposed edge of panel 2153. Releasing latches 2158 may allow a user to pivot door panel 2153 towards the user and/or downward, and may provide the user with access to reach beyond door panel 2151, e.g., into the processing chamber, such as while maintaining a separation between the user and the internal atmosphere of the processing chamber (e.g., during processing such as during printing). Primary door panel 2151 comprises three hinges 2160 that facilitates its connection, e g., to a wall of a processing chamber. The primary door 2151 is connected to a handle assembly 2156 (e g., ergonomic handle assembly) having a pivoting handle 2157 that can pivot to open and close primary door 2151. Handle assembly 2156 includes a stationary handle 2162 that allows engagement of a user’s fingers. Handle assembly 2156 includes thumb rest 2161 that allows pressing a user’s arm onto it. Each of elliptical panes 2154 and 2155 may or may not include a window assembly. Each of elliptical panes 2154 and 2155 may or may not be transparent. Each of elliptical panes 2154 and 2155 may or may not be opaque.

[0343] In some embodiments, the window assembly of the viewing window includes, or is operatively coupled to one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly. In some embodiments, a control system is operatively coupled to one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly. In some embodiments, an enclosure (e.g., a processing chamber) comprising the window assembly includes, or is operatively coupled to, one or more sensors configured to sense damage to the window assembly . The one or more sensors may be configured to sense damage to the window assembly (i) resulting from interaction of the first radiation from the at least one pane, (ii) comprising internal dislocation, cracking, deforming, or shattering, or (iii) combination of (i) and (ii). The one or more sensors may be configured to sense the damage to the window assembly in real time, e.g., during operation such as during irradiation of the first radiation occurring in the enclosure, e.g., during use of the enclosure such as during 3D printing. The one or more sensors are sensors may be configured to combine their data to generate a result indicative of damage to the window assembly. At least two of the sensors may be of a different type. At least two of the sensors may be of the same type, e.g., and disposed at different locations with respect to the window assembly. The one or more sensors may comprise an optical sensor, a (e.g., gas) flow sensor, a pressure sensor, an oxy gen sensor, a humidity sensor, or a hydrogen sensor. The optical sensor may be configured to sense X-ray radiation. At least one of the sensors may be disposed in the enclosure. The one or more sensors may comprise a microscope, e.g., comprising an optical microscope or an electronic microscope. At least one of the sensors may be configured to sense a material property of at least one pane of the window assembly, e g., comprising a fracture, a crack, a dislocation, a change in a refractive index, or a change in transparency. The at least one sensor may be operatively coupled to a control system. The control system may be any control system disclosed herein, e.g., a control sy stem controlling at least one apparatus associated with the 3D printing. For example, the control system may be configured to attenuate at least one other component utilized in a process occurring in the enclosure at which the window assembly is disposed. The process may comprise 3D printing. The enclosure may comprise a processing chamber. The one or more component may comprise an energy beam, an energy source, a scanner, or a temperature conditioning system. The control system may be a hierarchical control system, e.g., comprising at least three hierarchical control levels. For example, the control system may receive data from a pressure sensor that the pressure abruptly changed, e.g., reduced such as due to escape of gas as a consequence of damage of the window assembly. For example, the control system may receive data from a gas flow sensor that the flow in the enclosure abruptly changed, e.g., due to escaping gas as a consequence of damage of the window assembly. The damage can comprise at least one crack in the window assembly, e g., sufficient to allow gas to flow through the at least one crack. For example, the control system may receive data from an optical that the transparency of the window assembly changed, e g., the transparency reduced due to a material alteration of one or more panes of the window assembly. The material alteration may comprise dislocation, cracks, deformation, or shattering, of the one or more panes of the window assembly. For example, a temperature sensor measuring the temperature in the window assembly may indicate a temperature change, e.g., an increased temperature due to erosion of the reflective coating and interaction of the energy beam with a pane of the window assembly. The sensor can be any sensor disclosed herein, e.g., that can be utilized (alone or in combination with another sensor) damage of the window assembly such as damage caused by interaction with at least one energy beam. Any of the sensors disclosed herein can be combinable to indicate damage to the window assembly. At times, a temperature conditioning system may be operatively coupled to the window assembly. The temperature conditioning system may be configured to condition (e.g., cool) a temperature of at least one component of the window assembly. The temperature conditioning system may be operatively coupled to the at least tone sensor. The control system may be configured to control the temperature conditioning system, e.g., based on input from the one or more sensors.

[0344] Examples. The following are illustrative and non-limiting examples of methods of the present disclosure.

[0345] Example 1 : In a processing chamber, Inconel-718 powder having a diameter distribution of from about 15 micrometers to about 45 micrometers was dispensed by a layer dispensing mechanism (e.g., recoater), the powder being dispensed above a build plate having a diameter of about 315 mm to form a powder bed. A layer dispensing mechanism was used to form a powder bed. When idle, a layer dispensing mechanism is parked in an ancillary chamber (e.g., garage) coupled to the processing chamber in which the build plate was disposed, the ancillary chamber separated from the processing chamber by a door. The layer dispensing mechanism comprised a powder dispenser and a powder remover. The powder remover was configured to attract a portion of the dispensed powder to form a planar exposed surface of the powder bed using vacuum. The attracted powder was conveyed using a material (e.g., powder) conveyance system for recycling and reuse in by the layer dispensing mechanism. The atmosphere in the material conveyance system was similar to the one used in the processing chamber. The processing chamber was under an atmosphere that is less reactive with the powder than the ambient atmosphere external to the processing chamber. The internal processing chamber atmosphere comprised argon, oxygen, and humidity. The oxygen as at a concentration of at most about 1000 ppm, and the humidity had a dew point from about -55°C to about -15°C. The internal processing chamber atmosphere had a pressure of about 16 KPa above atmospheric pressure (e.g., above about 101 KPa), and was at ambient temperature. The processing chamber was equipped with two optical windows made of sapphire in a configuration similar to the one depicted in Fig. 17, e.g., 1706. Each laser beam was guided by an optical setup in an optical system enclosure, the optical system enclosure disposed above the processing chamber, the optical chamber comprising a galvanometer scanner. Each of the laser beams originated from a fiber laser and traversed its respective optical window into the processing chamber to impinge on an exposed surface of the powder bed to print layerwise a 3D object. Each of the laser beam had a maximum power of about one (1) Kilo Watt, and a wavelength of about 1060 nanometers. A user was able to view the laser beams during printing using three circular viewing window assemblies that were tilted with respect to tire floor of the processing chamber. The tilt is in a similar manner to the one depicted in Fig. 16 for rectangular viewing window 1630. Each of the viewing window assembly was similar to the one depicted in Fig. 18. The viewing assembly comprise a reflective coating (as disclosed herein) facing the interior of the processing chamber. The layer dispensing mechanism formed a powder bed by sequential layerwise deposition, the powder bed being disposed in a build module above the build plate. The build plate was disposed above a piston. The build plate traversed down at increments of about 50 pm at a precision of +/-2 micrometers using an optical encoder. The powder bed was used for layerwise printing the 3D object using the lasers. The removed powder was recycled using a recycling system as part of the powder recycling system that is part of the material conveyance system. The recycled powder was reused by the layer dispensing mechanism, e.g., recoater.

[0346] Example 2: In a processing chamber, Inconel-718 powder having a diameter distribution of from about 15 micrometers to about 45 micrometers was dispensed by a layer dispensing mechanism (e.g., recoater), the powder being dispensed above a build plate having a diameter of about 315 mm to form a powder bed. A layer dispensing mechanism was used to form a powder bed. When idle, a layer dispensing mechanism is parked in an ancillary chamber (e.g., garage) coupled to the processing chamber in which the build plate was disposed, tire ancillary chamber separated from the processing chamber by a door. The layer dispensing mechanism comprised a powder dispenser and a powder remover. The powder remover was configured to attract a portion of the dispensed powder to form a planar exposed surface of the powder bed using vacuum. The attracted powder was conveyed using a material (e.g., powder) conveyance system for recycling and reuse in by tire layer dispensing mechanism. The atmosphere in the material conveyance system was similar to the one used in the processing chamber. The processing chamber was under an atmosphere that is less reactive with the powder than the ambient atmosphere external to the processing chamber. The internal processing chamber atmosphere comprised argon, oxygen, and humidity. The oxygen as at a concentration of at most about 1000 ppm, and the humidity had a dew point from about -55°C to about -15°C. The internal processing chamber atmosphere had a pressure of about 16 KPa above atmospheric pressure (e.g., above about 101 KPa), and was at ambient temperature. The processing chamber was equipped with eight optical windows made of sapphire in a configuration similar to the one depicted in Fig. 16, e.g., 1615. Each laser beam was guided by an optical setup in an optical system enclosure, the optical system enclosure disposed above the processing chamber, the optical chamber comprising a galvanometer scanner. Each of the laser beams originated from a fiber laser and traversed its respective optical window into the processing chamber to impinge on an exposed surface of the powder bed to print layerwise a 3D object. Each of the laser beam had a maximum power of about one (1) Kilo Watt, and a wavelength of about 1060 nanometers. A user was able to view the laser beams during printing using a rectangular viewing window assembly that was tilted with respect to the floor of the processing chamber. The tilt is in a similar manner to the one depicted in Fig. 16 for rectangular viewing window 1630. The viewing window assembly was similar to the one depicted in Fig. 18 showing a circular viewing window. The viewing assembly comprise a reflective coating (as disclosed herein) facing the interior of the processing chamber. The layer dispensing mechanism formed a powder bed by sequential layerwise deposition, the powder bed being disposed in a build module above the build plate. The build plate was disposed above a piston. The build plate traversed down at increments of about 50 pm at a precision of +/-2 micrometers using an optical encoder. The powder bed was used for layerwise printing the 3D object using the lasers. The removed powder was recycled using a recycling system as part of the powder recycling system that is part of the material conveyance system. The recycled powder was reused by the layer dispensing mechanism, e.g., recoater.

[0347] While preferred embodiments of the present invention(s) have been shown, and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the invention(s) be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invenlion(s) has been described with reference to the afore-mentioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention(s). Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention(s) are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations, or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention(s) described herein might be employed in practicing the invention(s). It is therefore contemplated that the invention(s) shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations, or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention(s) and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.