FAQ: IVI: The Closed-Loop 3D Printer
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

How does IVI work when there is no Internet connection?

When there is no Internet connection, you can use a 3rd party slicer to slice the model and then connect with the printer via LAN or USB cable to print.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:27

What type of filaments does IVI support?

IVI uses non-proprietary filament. It comes with a heated bed that enables you to print with 1.75mm PLA, ABS, HIPS, TPU, PVA, etc.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:31

Can it be used with a 3rd party slicer or will it be proprietary?

Yes. You can use other slicer software, including Cura, Simplify 3D and Slic3r. IVI has its own slicer software which is cloud-based. All you need to do is to upload the model and IVI’s slicer will provide auto-slicing for you.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:31

How does IVI connect with the computer? Do I need USB cable or SD card?

IVI can connect with your PC or mobile devices through the Internet or LAN. You can also use the USB connection or SD cards.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:31

Will there be any user manuals or video tutorials?

Yes. We will provide a Quick Start Guide and video tutorial for 3D printing, laser engraving, and CNC carving. This includes unboxing, assembly, use of software, use cases, etc.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:31

What is the retail price of IVI?

For the closed-loop IVI 3D Printer and one FDM print head, the price is $799. For each add-on FDM print head of different diameters, laser module, and CNC module, it will be around $70 to $150. This price is subject to change after the funding period.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:31

Should we expect customs duties/taxes when we receive this printer?

Yes. You have to pay customs duties and taxes for this product. The rate differs according to the country.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:31

Will you have the necessary approval to ship the printer to the US and the EU?

Yes. We will apply for FCC, CE, and RoHS certification to ship the printer to the US and the EU.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

What power supply unit will be shipped with this printer? Will it work in my country?

The provided power supply unit can run on 100-240V AC, and can be used universally throughout the world. It can accommodate different AC mains voltages with interchangeable connectors.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Will the printer be shipped to the EU?

Yes. We will ship from China to the EU. Shipping costs and tax need to be covered by the backer.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Will IVI offer warranty and after-sales support?

Yes. We will provide technical support and after-sales service for printers purchased by supporters during crowdfunding. The warranty period for the main body and hardware is: 180 days from the date you receive the printer. 1. We will guarantee all modules and the major parts. We will verify and release the details of the warranty after we do thorough testing during pre-production. 2. For consumables like the nozzle and CNC bit, we will provide a free extra nozzle and bit as replacement parts.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Will IVI be another Tiko? How can you assure fulfillment of the project?

Like any other hardware product, IVI is at risk of encountering various difficulties, and we cannot guarantee 100% success right now. But here is what we CAN promise:

To make the most of every penny that backers give us, and record every transaction; To carefully select mass production programs, especially high-cost processing solutions; To conduct feasibility and risk assessments for all programs; To be transparent, update project progress at least once a week, including R&D, testing, mass production, shipping, etc., and disclose all large spending; To truthfully and promptly inform all backers if we encounter any major difficulty that will slow down the R&D, testing, mass production, or delivery schedule.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Why are 3D Scanning and SLA printing not included in this campaign?

When we created IVI’s modular print head design, we thought of adding these two features and giving the user two additional features without adding extra cost. 3D scanning can digitize an existing object and then print it out. SLA printing can be used to print out highly detailed models that FDM is not suited to. But considering that adding these two features will affect the progress of mass production and delivery of the printer, we decided to move them downwards in our priority list. We will perfect these two features after the crowdfunding and all of our backers will be able to purchase the accessories at a very low price.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

When will the cloud-based system and auto-slicing function be realized?

Currently, the cloud-based system and auto-slicing capability are still in development. Auto-slicing is part of the cloud-based system. We have verified the feasibility of auto-slicing and it can already automatically provide the best printing position by identifying model features. But it still requires a lot of perfecting before we can launch officially. By the time we release, you will no longer have to spend your time and effort configuring printing parameters. The cloud platform has been used within the team for more than three months. Although the UI is not yet perfect, the basic functions have been implemented (which completely outperform other slicing software on the market). What’s more, it has functions that are not available through other slicing software, including file management, and automatically associating STL and printing parameters with Gcode. This means that you can quickly find any Gcode straight from the STL file, and get all the printing parameters through the Gcode. The remaining mission for the cloud-based system is to optimize the UI and improve performance. In about six months, which is also the time all the backers receive the printer, it will be ready for use.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

What is the difference between IVI and Tiko?

We have a different product design philosophy. Tiko sought to be a cheap and simplified 3D printer while our goal is to make IVI a high resolution and reliable desktop 3D Printer. We have not tried new ways to reduce the cost of key components, because this will increase the uncertainty of mass production. For the main frame of the printer, IVI has applied methods that are already verified in the industry to realize the design of key movements and transmission. Unlike Tiko and many other Kickstarter 3D Printers, up to now this prototype printer has been tested for nearly 4,000 hours. We have uploaded nearly 700 hours of time-lapse printing videos on our social media accounts, including FDM printing, laser engraving, and CNC carving. The biggest difference between us and Tiko is that we have completed 80% of the machine before crowdfunding, and we are confident and more capable of delivering our product to our backers.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Why does IVI look so similar with Tiko?

Enclosed delta printers tend to be similar in appearance and design. Tiko had a similar design and was a failed project but that doesn’t mean it is a failed design. We believe the design has huge advantages and IVI is in the process of proving that to be true. We believe its industrial design makes IVI much more user-friendly. It is a more welcoming and accessible prospect for people without 3D printing experience.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Is IVI team the same team of Tiko?

No, IVI team has no connection whatsoever with Tiko. None of our team members are from Tiko and none of our software or hardware is from Tiko.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Does IVI have a heated bed?

Yes, IVI has a separate heated bed and carbon fiber bed. The carbon fiber bed is placed on top of the heated bed. Prints can be easily removed by pulling up the carbon fiber bed and gently bending it.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

How does IVI achieve closed loop?

IVI’s XYZ motors are equipped with magnetic angle sensors. With its motor drive board, IVI can automatically correct deviation during XYZ motion, ensuring the motion accuracy of each axis, thus ensuring printing accuracy and quality.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

Does IVI have a cooling system?

Yes, IVI has a cooling system. Inside IVI, there are two turbofans with 7.7 CFM airflow for circulating the heat inside the printer. When Joel Telling from 3D Printing Nerd was testing the prototype in January, the fan was a little far away from the print head and it didn’t directly blow towards the print model, which largely affects the heat dissipation effect. We have been working on solving this problem ever since and it has been solved now.

Last updated: April 16, 2019 08:58

What’s the difference between the 500mW and the 2500mW laser heads?

Basically, the 2500mW is stronger, capable of cutting thicker materials that the 500mW cannot. The 2500mW can have its output lowered, so it can function as the 500mW does as well. If you want to cut wood, you will need a 2500mW laser. The 500mW can only cut paper. Both lasers can engrave on wood, bamboo, fabric, leather, plastic, paper, acrylic. But with the 2500mW head, you can engrave faster, and also you can engrave black anodized aluminum.

Last updated: April 24, 2019 09:04

I just pledged one IVI 3D Printer, how do I order the add-ons I want? When do I state what items I want?

You can go to manage your pledge and change your pledge amount. Total amount = Pledge amount + add-on price + Shipping. After the campaign ends, a survey will be sent where you can choose the modules.

Last updated: May 02, 2019 14:45

Shipping Updates
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!
No shipping updates are provided.
BackerKit FAQ

What is BackerKit?

BackerKit is a service that crowdfunded project creators use to keep track of hundreds to tens of thousands of backers—from shipping details, pledge levels, preferences and quantities, whether they have paid or had their card declined, special notes, and everything in between!

The BackerKit software and support team is independent from the campaign’s project team—BackerKit does not handle the actual reward shipping. For more information about the preparation or delivery status of your rewards, please check the project's updates page.

How does BackerKit work?

After the campaign ends, the project creator will send you an email with a unique link to your survey. You can check out a walkthrough of the process here.

I never received my invitation. How do I complete the survey?

The most common reasons for not receiving a survey email is that you may be checking an email inbox different from the email address you used to sign up with Kickstarter, Indiegogo or Tilt Pro account, or it may be caught in your spam filter.

Confirm that the email address you are searching matches the email address tied to your Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or Tilt Pro account. If that doesn’t work, then try checking your spam, junk or promotions folders. You can also search for "backerkit” in your inbox.

To resend the survey to yourself, visit the project page and input the email address associated with your Kickstarter, Indiegogo or Tilt Pro account.

How do I update my shipping address?

BackerKit allows you to update your shipping address until the shipping addresses are locked by the project creator. To update your address, go back to your BackerKit survey by inputting your email here.

When will my order be shipped, charged or locked?

That is handled directly by the project creator. BackerKit functions independently of the project itself, so we do not have control of their physical shipping timeline. If you want to check on the project’s status, we recommend reading over the project's updates page.

I completed the survey, but haven't received my rewards yet. When will they arrive?

As BackerKit does not actually handle any rewards or shipping, the best way to stay updated on the shipping timeline would be to check out the project's updates page.

Contact Us