Case Study: Microsoft accelerates Surface Pro 9 hinge prototyping with Stratasys PolyJet

Microsoft speeds Surface Pro 9 hinge prototyping with Stratasys J850 Prime in a 26,000 sq ft APC

Microsoft, a leading technology company, faced a complex prototyping challenge in redesigning the compact and precise kickstand hinge for its Surface Pro 9 device. Traditional methods like CNC machining were too slow and resource-intensive for rapidly iterating on the small components. To overcome this, Microsoft's Advanced Prototyping Center utilized PolyJet technology from vendor Stratasys.

The solution implemented by Stratasys involved using a J850 Prime 3D printer to create digitally upscaled, larger-than-life models of the hinge assemblies. This method provided exceptional dimensional accuracy with little post-processing, enabling rapid validation of designs through precise fit checks and range of motion studies. The vendor's technology significantly expedited the prototyping process, allowing engineers to identify failure points faster and explore more innovative designs, ultimately leading to a more premium user experience for the final product.

Microsoft