These modifications have led to a new PCB version, which is expected to be the final iteration. While validating the new PCB functionalities, we identified a few minor aspects that need reworking. We plan to implement these elements in January, with a revalidation scheduled for the end of the month by our Head of Product in China. Importantly, these changes are minor and will not extend our lead time. According to our current progress, this development remains on track.

Certifications

The modifications made to the PCB delayed the start of our testing process for obtaining certifications by 2 weeks. This doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ll miss the planned deadlines, but having less time available increases its risk, but we are actively managing it.

We have conducted Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) measurements in China to further our progress toward final product certification. These measurements are crucial for the selection of the final power supply unit.

Cultivation tests

We are now integrating Design Validation Test (DVT) units into our test farm and have started testing on final product versions. In addition to these tests, we have initiated experiments with AnyMush pods from our American pod manufacturer.

By the end of January, we expect the second batch of mushroom pods from EU and USA suppliers to total 300 pods. This quantity will be sufficient for 1-2 months of testing. Our focus during this period is not only to validate our suppliers but also to concentrate on yield enhancement by fine-tuning the cultivation parameters.

We aim to replace all test farm machines with mass-produced machines for real-life testing. This transition will be carried out in several stages.

Challenges

We have encountered some challenges since the last update. For instance, temperature fluctuations during transportation may have adversely affected the pods. To address this, we’ve received the first prototypes of the pods’ packaging, which will incorporate thermal elements. These elements are designed to compensate for the temperature variations during transit, ensuring the pods remain unaffected by the changing conditions. 

A significant issue we faced was bacterial contamination, likely due to inadequate cleaning, resulting in bacterial infection on the mushrooms during the final days of cultivation. This type of contamination, which was not mold, is a new occurrence for us. To address this, we are now introducing a complete cleaning process every two cycles, a practice we will also recommend to our users in the detailed user guide. We are going to revisit the procedure in the near future, but will also keep you updated. To further help you, we are conducting tests to determine the most effective cleaning agents and will provide recommendations accordingly. Additionally, since the wick is an integral part of the device, it will either need to be disinfected or replaced in cases of contamination. We plan to conduct tests shortly to determine the best method for disinfection.

Logistics

A key part of our logistics strategy is testing different ways to package our pods so they reach their destination without any damage. Our design should consider environmental and financial factors while offering robust protection during shipment.

We are focusing on designing our pod production processes to ensure full compliance with all regulations while simultaneously creating the packaging design. This procedure guarantees that our product complies with legislation and standards in different target markets. We are also setting up a trial operation for our fulfillment center, which is critical given the complexity of pod logistics. These centers will play a key role in efficiently managing and dispatching our products, ensuring timely delivery to our customers.

We optimize our distribution channels and partner with reliable shipping services to reduce transit times significantly. Through these efforts, we aim to ensure pods reach our customers quickly and in perfect condition.

Shipping schedule

Currently, everything is on track. However, we are closely monitoring the certification process to avoid potential delays of 1-2 weeks. Our engineering team is diligently addressing this, as with all aspects of our project, to maintain our schedule.

What’s next for Shrooly

Our Head of Product will return from China in early February with the textured Shrooly, incorporating all the recent modifications. We anticipate no further changes will be needed on the product, allowing us to proceed to the production validation test (PVT).

After this product’s quality and functional checks, we will approve it and enter into the PVT phase, where we plan to manufacture 200 units. The PVT marks the final stage before we begin mass production. At this stage, tooling is finalized. This doesn’t mean changes to the product design or production molds are impossible; rather, they are unlikely to be necessary. We’ve already addressed these aspects during the Design Validation Test (DVT) phase.

It’s also important to highlight that during the Production Validation Test (PVT) phase, our Quality Control processes will be implemented in their final form.

All jigs, fixtures, and test benches will be in place and verified, ready for the next production pilot (PP) to start. 

From these 200 units, we can send out products to our early backers. We expect to start this production phase after the Chinese New Year. This significant milestone brings us closer to delivering the final Shrooly products to our customers.

The next 2 updates

Due to the Chinese New Year holidays from February 9th to 24th, our next update will be brief, focusing on the product brought back by our Head of Product before the holiday. Following this update, expect a longer period of limited communication. During the holiday period in China, all manufacturing processes halt, which means a temporary hold on our production. However, this is a standard practice and part of the annual cycle, allowing us to plan accordingly. It’s a well-anticipated break that won’t impact our overall timeline.

However, at our headquarters, we will continue to work on cultivation tests and the acquisition of certifications for our product. As a result, after the brief update in February, the following update will also be concise and may contain less information than usual. This is planned; our previously communicated schedule has been established with this period in mind.

Wrapping up our January update, we want to express our heartfelt thanks for your continued support. Our team is incredibly excited as we draw closer to delivering your Shrooly and pods. This unwavering support fuels our dedication and drives us toward our goal of bringing Shrooly to you. Stay tuned for more updates, and once again, thank you for being a part of this journey.

Shrooly team