Case Study: Microsoft achieves faster time-to-market and precise assembly verification with Stratasys J850 PolyJet 3D printing

Microsoft Enhances Design Precision with Clear, Multi-Color 3D Printing

Microsoft’s Advanced Prototyping Center (APC) in Redmond needed a faster, more accurate way to verify the tightly packaged, multi-disciplinary subassemblies inside each new Surface Pen generation—components such as magnetic holders, inductive charging and haptic systems that require micron-level gaps and precise fit. To address these challenges, Microsoft worked with Stratasys, deploying the Stratasys J850 Prime color 3D printer and PolyJet materials to turn digital mockups into physical prototypes.

Stratasys delivered multi-color and ultra‑clear PolyJet printing (VeroUltra Clear) on the J850 Prime, producing high-resolution prototypes with layers as thin as fourteen microns and the ability to print scaled or larger-than-life models for clearer internal visualization. The Stratasys solution accelerated assembly verification, increased the volume of prototypes teams could produce, provided engineers with precise micrometer-capable references for production comparison, and helped shorten time to part and overall time to market.

Microsoft