3d Systems, Inc.

Rajeev Kulkami

Khalil M Moussa

John S Stockwell

Hongqing V Wang

Pavan Kumar

There are provided method and apparatus for the forming of three-dimensional objects in a layered fashion, wherein improvements are made to the support structure to improve the quality of the resulting three-dimensional objects. The support structure may include encapsulation along the interface boundary of the support-object interface to prevent or reduce the likelihood of separation of the build material, that forms the three-dimensional object, from the support material, that forms the support structure, or vice versa. The support structure may also or alternatively include both a porous support structure and a solid support structure to prevent or reduce the likelihood of separation of the support structure from the build platform and to improve the quality of the down-facing surfaces of the three-dimensional object. Methods are also provided for selectively depositing the support material and build material and for encapsulating the interface boundary with support material.

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Charlotte, NC, United States of America

Rajeev Kulkami