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 Farrer 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.
Collaborative Engineering Solutions for Businesses in Farrer
As a trusted engineering and product development company based in Farrer, Australian Capital Territory, COLETEK is committed to delivering exceptional results for businesses across the region.
With over two decades of collective experience and expertise, our team has established a reputation as leaders in their field. Since 2001, we've been dedicated to providing innovative solutions that empower local businesses to thrive and grow. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a national reputation as a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company.
Operating throughout Farrer, Australian Capital Territory, and beyond, our team is primed to support your business' unique needs. Whether you're looking to design and develop new products, optimize processes, or push the boundaries of innovation, we're here to collaborate and deliver results that meet your expectations.
At COLETEK, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. We take the time to understand each client's goals and challenges, leveraging our collective expertise to craft tailored solutions that drive long-term success. Our team is well-versed in navigating the complexities of Farrer's business landscape, ensuring your project receives the attention it deserves.
Whatever your engineering or product development needs may be, rest assured that COLETEK is equipped to handle them with precision and care. Drawing on our expertise in multidisciplinary engineering, we'll work closely with you to develop innovative solutions that drive growth, improve efficiency, and elevate your brand.
Farrer, Australian Capital Territory, businesses are a crucial part of the region's economy, and we're dedicated to empowering them through cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking design. Join forces with COLETEK today, and let's build something remarkable together.
