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 Garibaldi 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 Partner for Engineering and Product Development in Garibaldi, Victoria, Australia
As a business leader in Garibaldi, Victoria, Australia, you understand the value of relying on trusted partners to drive innovation and growth. At COLETEK, we're proud to be a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001. With a national reputation for reliability, collaboration, and capability, we're well-equipped to support businesses across Garibaldi, Victoria, Australia.
Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results, tailored to the unique needs of local businesses like yours. We've had the privilege of working with organisations throughout Australia, from coastal regions to inland communities. Whether you're seeking custom product solutions or expert engineering consulting services, our commitment to excellence means you can trust us to get the job done.
As a Garibaldi-based business owner, you likely understand the importance of proximity and local expertise. That's why we're committed to being based in Garibaldi, Victoria, Australia – allowing us to build strong relationships with local suppliers, manufacturers, and industry partners. By leveraging our national network and resources, we can deliver projects that meet your specific requirements, on-time and within budget.
COLETEK is more than just an engineering company – we're a strategic partner for businesses seeking to develop innovative products, solve complex problems, or improve operational efficiency. With our expertise in multidisciplinary science and technology, you can trust us to provide a customised approach that aligns with your unique needs.
When it comes to building something remarkable, you need a trusted partner who will listen, collaborate, and deliver. At COLETEK, we're proud to be that partner for businesses in Garibaldi, Victoria, Australia. Let's work together to create something truly remarkable – contact us today to get started!
