Abstract: Joiners, methods of joining, and related systems for additive manufacturing are provided. The method of joining includes bulk depositing, by an additive manufacturing tool head, a joiner (anchor) of a second material in a receptacle in a body of a first material. Also, the method of joining includes depositing an anchor layer of a third material upon the anchor. Networks of joiners in 3D printed parts, multi-material parts comprising joiners, computer program products for providing joiners, joiner systems including trolleys, and related methods and systems are also provided. Further provided is a system, and method, for securing a part to a build platform and separating the part from the build platform.

Abstract: Described is automatic, configurable manufacturing workflow (ACMW) technology for additive manufacturing (AM) systems. Apparatus, methods and systems employing ACMW technology provide AM systems with increased flexibility. ACMW technology is particularly suitable for lights-out AM and for continuous AM. In various embodiments of ACMW technology, efficiency and/or reliability of an AM system are increased and/or need for maintenance and/or human intervention is decreased. Broadly, ACMW technology can enable practical scale up of production AM, including automatic configuration of 3D printing clusters as may be desired, such automatic configuration including automatic reconfiguration as desired. This increases manufacturing flexibility and can lead to lower total cost per part (TCPP). ACMW technology addresses several cost and efficiency drivers involved in calculation of TCPP.

Abstract: Joiners, methods of joining, and related systems for additive manufacturing are provided. The method of joining includes bulk depositing, by an additive manufacturing tool head, a joiner (anchor) of a second material in a receptacle in a body of a first material. Also, the method of joining includes depositing an anchor layer of a third material upon the anchor. Networks of joiners in 3D printed parts, multi-material parts comprising joiners, computer program products for providing joiners, joiner systems including trolleys, and related methods and systems are also provided. Further provided is a system, and method, for securing a part to a build platform and separating the part from the build platform.