US Patent 11934129 Additive manufacturing system and method with improved surface finish

Embodiments herein relate to 3D printing. In an embodiment, a method for printing an article using a selective toner electrophotographic process (“STEP”) includes successively depositing multiple layers of part material and support material, the layers deposited substantially parallel to a first plane; wherein: a) the multiple layers of part material and support material extend in a perpendicular to the first plane; and b) at least some of the layers of part material and support material are separated from each other to form a gap between the layers of part material and layers of support material; application of heat and pressure to the part material and support material such that a portion of the part material and support material flows into and at least partially fills the gap between the part material and support material.