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 Bridgewater North 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.
Solutions That Make a Difference in Bridgewater North, Victoria, Australia
As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK has earned a reputation for reliability, innovation, and collaboration across various industries. Our team of experts is dedicated to serving businesses across Bridgewater North, Victoria, Australia, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
With extensive experience in bridging the gap between technical expertise and business needs, we understand the importance of aligning solutions with local market demands. As a trusted partner, COLETEK operates throughout the country, providing tailored support to businesses in Bridgewater North, Victoria, Australia. Our national footprint allows us to draw from our expertise in multiple sectors, ensuring that our customers receive comprehensive support and innovative approaches.
Our engineers and product developers work closely with clients to understand their unique challenges and requirements. We leverage this knowledge to design and deliver solutions that drive results, improve efficiency, and enhance the competitiveness of businesses operating in Bridgewater North, Victoria, Australia. By leveraging decades of experience and a solid understanding of local industry needs, COLETEK is well-equipped to help companies in the region thrive.
Our commitment to capability, reliability, and collaboration enables us to build long-term relationships with our clients. Whether you're an established business or a start-up looking to revolutionize your market, COLTEK's expertise can help elevate your operations and drive growth. Our trusted partner status is built on trust, transparency, and unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional results.
As a trusted national engineering and product development company based in Bridgewater North, Victoria, Australia, we're proud to serve businesses across the region. Let's work together to build something remarkable. Contact COLETEK today to explore how our solutions can benefit your business, empowering you to tackle new challenges and achieve success.
