Apparatus and methods for dispensing powder

A digitally controlled powder deposition apparatus, comprising:

• a supply chamber comprising a container configured to hold a reservoir of powder and to impart kinetic energy to the reservoir of powder to maintain it in a fluidised state;
• one or more dispenser elements, each comprising a piezo actuator and an orifice, the orifice being configured to resist a flow of fluidised powder having an energy below a first energy level;
• and
• wherein the supply chamber is further configured to direct a flow of the fluidised powder from the reservoir to the orifice, the portion of powder having an energy below the first energy level;
• and
• wherein each dispenser element is further configured to impart additional kinetic energy to the portion of powder via the piezo actuator such that the portion is provided with an energy equal to or above the first energy level, causing it to be dispensed from the orifice.