January Manufacturing Update: Molded Parts Looking Good!

When another calendar year rolls around, it’s common to look at it with hope. “This year’s going to be better than the last”, everyone seems to say to themselves. In recent years it can feel that hope is misplaced as the world continues to battle with problems, both old and new.

Take the supply chain issues that started in 2020 but are still affecting us today. We can’t be the only ones wondering where all the cream cheese went, right?

That being said, we think this update may spark a little hope if you’re feeling weary, as we’re moving along according to schedule. Let’s take a closer look:

Production Ready Parts from Our Molds

The biggest news this month is that we’ve received several production ready components from our molds including:

• Gearing for the Pump
• Valves
• Silicone Seals
• Silicone Mouthpiece Covers
• Pins and Screws
• Rubber Suction Cup Feet
• And More

We’ve sent a small number of these components to our office to check tolerances and fit and we’re pleased to say that there is only one change that is needed, and that is with the power button cover on the handle.

Power Button Testing on the Handle

In our previous update focused on fit and finish, you’ll have seen us testing the unit using a power button that wasn’t yet installed into the handle. Now, with the additional components as well as the final version of the coil hose passing testing, we’ve been able to wire up the button into the handle and begin testing that setup:

As you can hear, the button has a satisfying click when depressed, and even though you can’t feel it through the video, the button gives just as much feedback through touch with a surprisingly tactile click. We’re really happy with this button, but there is a slight tweak we need to make.

As you can see at the end of the video, if you try really hard, you can get the silicone button covering to stick in the down position. This requires deliberate pushing down at the top most section of the button with your fingernail, something that we don’t think would happen during normal usage, but we’re still looking to change the shape of the mold to address it.

Good news is that the change is relatively straightforward and simple, with no changes to our delivery timeline as a result.

Looking Forwards

With these parts coming in and mostly passing testing we’re yet another step closer to delivering Instafloss. As mentioned, we’re still on track as of this moment for our Q2 completion of manufacturing, which is very exciting for our team, and we’re sure for you as well. 

Stay tuned for next month’s update, when we’ll once again share a detailed look at the latest manufacturing news.

The pandemic and the resulting supply chain shortages have really made this process take far longer than expected. Who knew that creating a new complex product in the midst of a pandemic would have caused things to run less smoothly than anticipated? Surprise! However, we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you all for supporting us throughout this journey. We’re almost there!