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 Windy 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.
Trusted Engineering and Product Development Partner for Businesses in Windy, New South Wales, Australia
As a business operator based in Windy, New South Wales, Australia, you understand the importance of partnering with a reliable and innovative engineering and product development company. Since 2001, COLETEK has been serving businesses across Windy, New South Wales, Australia, providing expert solutions that drive growth, enhance efficiency, and improve market competitiveness.
Ours is a multidisciplinary Australian company, founded on a commitment to collaborative innovation and technical expertise. Our national reputation for delivering exceptional results has earned us the trust of businesses in Windy, New South Wales, Australia, and throughout Australia. Whether you're seeking to launch a new product, streamline operations, or stay ahead of the curve in your industry, we have the capabilities and experience to support your goals.
At COLETEK, we pride ourselves on our ability to listen, understand, and adapt to the unique challenges faced by businesses in Windy, New South Wales, Australia. By combining cutting-edge engineering principles with a deep understanding of local market requirements, we empower our clients to succeed and thrive in an increasingly complex business landscape.
Our team of experienced engineers and product development professionals is dedicated to delivering results that exceed client expectations. We take the time to understand your business needs and goals, then leverage our collective expertise to develop solutions that meet those needs head-on. From concept through commercialization, we're committed to providing exceptional support throughout the entire product development lifecycle.
We're proud to serve businesses in Windy, New South Wales, Australia, and we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. Whether you're looking to launch a new product, improve operational efficiency, or drive business growth, we have the expertise and experience to help you succeed.
So why wait? Let's build something remarkable together! Simply reach out to us today and take the first step towards achieving your vision for success.
