Case Study: Microsoft achieves faster shield metal prototyping with Stratasys PolyJet 3D printing

Microsoft accelerates shield metal prototyping with Stratasys' 14-micron PolyJet technology

Microsoft, specifically its Advanced Prototyping Center, faced a challenge in prototyping thin metal shield cans for electronic devices. Traditional tooling methods were time-consuming, costly, and limited design iteration, impeding their "Fail Fast" development process. The vendor, Stratasys, provided a solution using its PolyJet technology and J850 Prime 3D printer.

The solution involved 3D printing the tooling forms needed to produce the metal prototypes. Stratasys' technology, including Vero and Digital ABS Plus materials, allowed for highly accurate models with sharp corners and complex geometries that were previously impossible or difficult to machine. This significantly accelerated the development process, reduced design limitations, and enabled more frequent iterations, leading to more innovative product solutions for Microsoft.

Microsoft