Stratasys Sues Rival 3D Printer Manufacturer

Eden Prairie-based 3D printer manufacturer Stratasys has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Afinia, Stratasys announced Monday.

Stratasys alleges that Afinia’s $1,600 Series H printer violates patents in four areas—“part porosity, liquefier structure, temperature control, and tool paths for constructing part perimeters.” The most recent of those was issued in January 2013.

"[Intellecual property] infringement discourages companies from investing in innovation," a news release quoted Stratasys CEO David Reis. "Stratasys pioneered 3D printing, and invests millions of dollars each year to develop our technologies. In 2012 alone, Stratasys Ltd invested $33.3 million or 9.3 percent of its revenues in R&D. We intend to protect that investment."

Afinia has not yet responded to the lawsuit.