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 Ballina 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.
Partners in Innovation: Unlocking Success for Businesses in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia
As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK has earned a reputation as a trusted partner for businesses seeking innovative solutions. Our expertise spans industries, and we're proud to serve clients operating throughout Ballina, New South Wales, Australia.
As a local player with a national scope, we understand the unique challenges faced by companies in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia. Our team of experts is committed to collaborating closely with our clients to develop customized solutions that meet their specific needs and goals. With COLETEK, you can rely on the reliability, adaptability, and expertise necessary to overcome any hurdle.
We pride ourselves on being a trusted partner for businesses in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia seeking innovative engineering and product development strategies. Our extensive experience and capabilities have been honed over years of working with clients across various sectors – from manufacturing to service-based industries. We're based in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia, which allows us to stay deeply connected to the local business ecosystem and offer tailor-made support.
By leveraging our collective expertise and resources, we're able to unlock new possibilities for businesses in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia. Whether you require assistance with product design, prototyping, testing, or manufacturing – we can help. Our doors are open to any business seeking innovative solutions that drive growth and success.
We invite ambitious companies based in Ballina, New South Wales, Australia, to explore the benefits of partnering with us. Together, let's build something remarkable and shape a brighter future for your business. Contact Us today to learn more about how we can support you in your journey.
