Since the last update, we’ve entered an intense phase in the project. Manufacturing the Lite3DP requires parts from around 30 suppliers. All of them must do their part in the agreed-upon time, which presents great challenges.

The most serious difficulty we had was when our supplier of LCD displays, whose products we had already tested and selected, simply failed us. LCD displays are one of the many components in short supply in these times and prices have risen rapidly. With considerable effort, we managed to find a new manufacturer, who sent us samples that passed our tests and could quickly manufacture the LCDs we needed. Although the cost was 74% higher than expected, we are happy to have found a reliable supplier.

Another missing component was the stepper motor we’d originally selected. Fortunately, we were able to find a substitute which upgrades the speed and accuracy of the Lite3DP. This allows the Lite3DP to move 0.000217 mm/microstep, unleashing the higher resolution of the DRV8825 driver.

With our great commitment to our backers and our desire to deliver the best product we can, we managed to add the following initially unforeseen improvements.

• Laser-cut base from 5000 series anodized aluminum, strong and beautiful.

• Plastic parts made from injected polycarbonate (and not manufactured by 3D printing as we supposed in the campaign), which provides extremely robust parts. Here are the first plastic injection samples:

• CNC machined platform in anodized 6000 series aluminum. Take a look at this beauty:

• Addition of EVA parts to minimize motor vibrations and improve the stability of the 3D printer.

• While learning and experimenting with a new skill, it is natural that some equipment will get damaged. To prevent the Lite3DP from being out of service for want of a small replacement part, we've added some additional spares: extra FEP film for the tray, extra PVC coupling, extra vinyl decals, extra adhesive tapes, and some extra screws and nuts.

While we did our best to finish manufacturing by the end of May, we now expect to finish by mid-June. This means delivery of the Lite3DP may be delayed a few days, for which we are very sorry. When we get closer to the ship date, we’ll be able to inform you with greater precision.

Thank you for your support and please stay tuned to our campaign on Crowd Supply!