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 Stoneleigh 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.
Building Stronger Foundations in Stoneleigh, Victoria, Australia with COLETEK
Coletek's roots run deep in the Australian engineering and product development landscape. Since 2001, we've been dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and reliability – serving businesses across Stoneleigh, Victoria, Australia, and nationwide.
As a multidisciplinary company, our expertise spans across various industries, from manufacturing and construction to agriculture and environmental management. With COLETEK, you can rely on our proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions, crafted through meticulous design thinking and rigorous testing processes.
We're proud to be based in Stoneleigh, Victoria, Australia, where we've established strong connections with local businesses, academia, and government agencies. Our commitment to the area means we share a passion for supporting community growth, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability.
For businesses in Stoneleigh, Victoria, Australia, COLETEK provides more than just technical expertise – we offer tailored partnerships built on trust, flexibility, and adaptability. Our engineers, designers, and developers work closely with clients to understand their unique challenges and develop customized solutions that meet their specific needs.
We believe that effective problem-solving is all about collaboration and attention to detail. That's why our team takes a collaborative approach to each project, ensuring seamless integration of processes, technology, and human ingenuity. We're not just solution providers – we're strategic partners dedicated to driving your business forward.
In Stoneleigh, Victoria, Australia, COLETEK is well-positioned to support local businesses in their quest for innovation, efficiency, and growth. Whether you're looking to develop new products, streamline manufacturing processes, or enhance your operational capabilities, our multidisciplinary expertise can help.
If you're ready to build stronger foundations, partnerships, and relationships with a trusted engineering and product development partner like COLETEK, look no further. Let's work together to unlock new possibilities and drive success in Stoneleigh, Victoria, Australia – and beyond.
