Bambu Lab ordered to pay Stratasys $27.6M for patent infringement on 3D printer technology

Jury Finds Infringement

A Texas jury has ruled that Bambu Lab infringed on patents held by Stratasys, Inc., concerning technology used in its X1, P1, and A1 series 3D printers. The patents in question relate to prime towers and bed leveling methods, which are common features in consumer 3D printers. Stratasys was awarded $27.6 million in damages as a result of the verdict.

Affected Printer Models

The infringement ruling specifically targets Bambu Lab's 'first generation' 3D printers. The X1, launched in May 2022, was retired earlier this year. The P1S was nominally replaced by the P2S in October 2025, and the A1 and A1 Mini remain part of Bambu Lab's current product lineup, though a larger A2L was introduced this summer. No injunctions have been placed on these machines, meaning they can still be sold.

Patents in Dispute

The first-generation Bambu Lab machines utilize single-nozzle filament purging, which is covered by Stratasys's US 9421713 patent. Additionally, these printers rely on specific strain-gauge and force-sensor implementations for bed leveling, targeted by Stratasys's US 9168698 patent. Stratasys, Inc. is recognized for inventing FDM 3D printing, with co-founder Scott Crump holding the foundational US5121329 patent from 1989, which expired in 2009.

Bambu Lab's Response and Future Designs

Bambu Lab has stated disagreement with the verdict and plans to pursue post-trial remedies. Newer Bambu Lab models, such as the H2 and X2 lineups, feature dual-nozzle designs that avoid the US 9421713 patent. These newer machines also incorporate optical sensors and re-engineered bed probing to circumvent the force-detection feedback loops claimed by Stratasys's patent.

Industry Context

Other manufacturers are also developing alternative solutions. Prusa Research, for example, is working on the INDX, a multi-nozzle toolchanger designed to minimize waste without requiring a prime or purge tower. This approach involves wiping tiny filament pellets into a waste cup, indicating a broader industry trend towards more efficient and patent-avoidant purging methods.