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!
9 comments
Sounds good, hoping things progress to success, my teeth ate waiting !!!
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Instafloss replied:
We’re glad that we won’t keep your teeth waiting for much longer, Darlene! Looking forward to delivering your Instafloss in just a few months.
With Smiles, The Instafloss Team
Looking good Instafloss team! I know it’s been a long journey to get here and can empathize with the challenges of trying to design and manufacture a new product in this current environment. I appreciate you sharing the updates along the way!
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Instafloss replied:
Thank you, Euphemia! We’ll continue to post our monthly updates, and we greatly appreciate your support and understanding.
With Smiles, The Instafloss Team
I realize that it is too late in the design and manufacturing process, but, was a touch screen type on/off button considered,like I have on my Keurig 2.0? Or, I have a touch/pressure sensitive panel on my Samsung dishwasher. Neither make a click or have a physical button. just require a finger tip sensitive touch in a certain marked spot to turn on/start or to make changes on settings. Thank you, and I am really looking forward to using the completed Instafloss
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Instafloss replied:
Excellent question, Robert — we did consider a touch screen but decided against it for a number of reasons.
First, there is the safety aspect: we wanted it to be easy to turn off when needed and letting go of the button is an immediate reaction (if you hit a sensitive part of your gums, or need to remove the mouthpiece and don’t want to have it spray outside of your mouth and make a mess). Second, we wanted to keep the customer’s price as low as we could, and a screen would increase it significantly. This ties into our third reason, which is that we wanted to make Instafloss as durable as possible, and the more complicated it is, the more things there are to possibly malfunction. There are many who like the tactile feedback of the button, too.
We’re very excited to bring Instafloss to you! Happy flossing :)
With Smiles, The Instafloss Team
I have moved and wanted see if you have my correct address or were can I update my mailing address.
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Instafloss replied:
Hello Derek,
Please email us at Smile@Instafloss.com and we’d be happy to update your shipping address for you! Cheers :)
With Smiles, The Instafloss Team