Case Study: Microsoft achieves faster, higher‑accuracy Surface Pro 9 hinge prototyping with Stratasys J850 Prime

Microsoft Engineers and Model-Makers Utilize PolyJet™ Technology to Redesign Surface Pro 9’s Kickstand Hinge

Microsoft’s Advanced Prototyping Center in Redmond faced the challenge of rapidly redesigning the compact, high-precision kickstand hinge for the Surface Pro 9—small components that require tight tolerances and fast iteration cycles beyond the practicality of CNC or metal injection molding. To meet this need, Microsoft turned to Stratasys’ PolyJet technology, specifically the J850 Prime, to support rapid prototyping and validation of multiple hinge designs.

Using the Stratasys J850 Prime, Microsoft digitally upscaled hinge assemblies and printed large, highly accurate prototypes that required little to no post-processing, enabling quick fit checks and range-of-motion studies. Stratasys’ solution accelerated turnaround times, removed a development bottleneck, sped identification of potential failure points, and allowed engineers to explore more design options—resulting in a more refined hinge for the Surface Pro 9 and greater confidence in production decisions.

Microsoft

Mike Oldani

Model-Maker