We have much experience with hardware prototyping of plastic parts, metal parts and electronic parts. Electro-mechanical prototypes typically require software prototyping, which we also have much experience with.
We are confident we can deliver rapid prototyping solutions for you. The following sections outline some key phases.
Our core business is focused on projects that have a break-even point, such as resale via mass production. To learn more about this see our page on Flynn New Product Development.
Product Design Phase (Computer modeling from scratch or 3D scanning)
During this phase we assess your requirements to determine if we are best to design your model from scratch using 3D CAD tools, 3D animations tools, or perform a 3D scan an mock up model.
While 3D scanning sounds like an easy option, it is not perfect, and requires much cleaning up of the model. Further it produces a file with point cloud data, which then must be converted to a typical CAD file (e.g. .igs, .stp, and/or .stl). It is because of these reasons, it is generally quicker to create the design from scratch (unless the target requirement is just to reprint the scanned object without any additional design features - which is a service we're not keen on providing).
In terms of electronics - generally we design custom electronics to get the unit cost down, but in some cases we might use off-the-shelve electronics (e.g. Proof-of-concept prototype).
Product Prototyping Phase
Plastic mechanical parts will likely be 3D printed via various methods such as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) or CNC'ed in some cases. The material options are kinda endless from rigid to rubbers, such as ABS, PLA, Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylic (PMMA), PET, PEEK, Polyamide aka Nylon (PA), Glass reinforced nylon (PA66+GF), Polyurethane (PU), Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinyl Chloride (PCV), Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO), Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), PEBA 2301, Nitrile Rubber (NBR), Polytetrafluoroethylene aka Teflon (PTFE) and more. There are also various finish options such as transparent, transulent, colours, electro-plating, reflective mirror, and screen-printing graphics.
Metal mechanical parts can be 3D printed also, however in our opinion CNC is still the better option. The material options are also kinda endless such as aluminum (AL), steel, stainless steel (SS), brass, etc. There are also various finish options such as blackening, electro-plating (Chrome-plating, Nickel-chrome plating, Zinc-plating, Galvanizing), anodized (black, matte clear), and chromating conversion.
We've also made prototypes using materials such as Carbon Fiber, Fibreglass, Glass wool, DuPont, Vectran, conductive thread, and look forward to playing with Graphene one day.
Electronic parts will involve manufacturing of bare PCBs, then assembling PCB surface-mount (SMT) and through-hole (THT) components via soldering methods such as a stencils, reflow oven, IR heat lamp, hotair rework station, soldering iron, etc.
Hardware bugs are likely, and we'd hack things to make the working prototype. During this process we'll make notes on the design changes required for the next revision.
Saving the Day for Flynn-Based Businesses with Expert Engineering and Product Development
If you're a business operating in Flynn, Australian Capital Territory, you know how crucial it is to have reliable partners who understand the challenges specific to your region. That's where COLETEK comes in – a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001 with a reputation for delivering innovative solutions backed by trusted expertise.
We're proud to be serving businesses across Flynn, Australian Capital Territory, and empowering them to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. With our wealth of knowledge and experience, we've developed a distinctive approach that combines human-centered design principles with cutting-edge engineering capabilities.
Based in Flynn, Australian Capital Territory, COLETEK takes pride in its connection to the local community while operating throughout Australia to bring value to diverse industries. Our team comprises experienced professionals who have tackled complex projects across various sectors, from defense and aerospace to healthcare and renewable energy. We're not just problem solvers – we're collaborators, working closely with our clients to develop tailored solutions that drive results.
What sets us apart is our commitment to reliability, a trait essential for businesses based in Flynn, Australian Capital Territory. You can count on us to deliver high-quality products and services, every time, no matter the complexity or timeline. Our team's ability to adapt, innovate, and optimize ensures you're ahead of the curve, not stuck behind it.
Through our extensive network of partners and expertise, we've built an ecosystem that nurtures collaboration and fosters growth. By partnering with COLETEK, Flynn-based businesses can tap into a wealth of knowledge, enjoy seamless communication, and benefit from our agile approach to engineering and product development.
If you're seeking a trusted partner that truly understands the Flynn market, look no further. We invite you to join forces with us – let's build something remarkable together.
