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 Havelock 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.
Unlocking Local Potential: COLETEK's Commitment to Havelock, Victoria, Australia
Coletek has been serving businesses across Havelock, Victoria, Australia for over two decades, earning a reputation as a trusted partner for engineering and product development. With its multidisciplinary team of experts, the company is committed to helping local organizations thrive in an rapidly changing landscape.
As a national leader in its field, COLETEK brings a level of innovation and expertise that is unmatched by many regional players. Based in Havelock, Victoria, Australia, our team operates throughout Australia to deliver high-quality solutions that meet the unique needs of local businesses. From manufacturers to logistics providers, we work closely with clients to understand their challenges and develop tailored solutions that drive growth and profitability.
At COLETEK, we believe that no two projects are alike. Our collaborative approach ensures that every client receives personalized attention from our experienced engineers and product development professionals. By leveraging the latest technologies and methodologies, we can help businesses in Havelock, Victoria, Australia stay ahead of the curve, adapt to changing market conditions, and maintain their competitive edge.
While some companies may focus on a specific industry or sector, COLETEK's broad expertise allows us to serve a wide range of clients across various industries and regions. Whether you're looking for innovative product development, comprehensive engineering solutions, or reliable operational support, we have the capability and expertise to help businesses in Havelock, Victoria, Australia achieve their goals.
So why choose COLETEK for your business's needs in Havelock, Victoria, Australia? With our trusted national reputation, local presence, and commitment to delivering exceptional results, you can be confident that we'll provide the support and guidance necessary to drive success. Let us help you unlock your organization's potential and achieve remarkable things.
