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 Chewton 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.
Engineering a Brighter Future for Chewton, Victoria, Australia
In the charming town of Chewton, Victoria, Australia, innovation is alive and well. As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK has built a reputation as a trusted partner for businesses seeking reliable expertise and collaborative spirit. Our commitment to serving businesses across Chewton, Victoria, Australia and throughout the nation has earned us a spot as a premier choice among local leaders.
As we've grown and adapted over two decades, our team has developed an impressive portfolio of experience. From industrial products to infrastructure solutions, we've tackled complex challenges head-on, delivering quality results that inspire confidence. Whether you're a startup or an established player in the Chewton community, COLETEK is here to help turn your vision into reality.
We understand that every business is unique, with its own set of needs and objectives. That's why we've developed a capability that spans multiple disciplines – from mechanical engineering to electronics, software development, and more. With our diverse expertise at your disposal, you can be sure that your concerns will be addressed with the utmost care and attention.
As COLETEK operates throughout Australia, including Chewton, Victoria, Australia, we're committed to fostering strong relationships with local businesses, organizations, and community leaders. We believe that collaboration is key to driving success, and our team is dedicated to delivering personalized support that meets your specific needs.
If you're looking for a trusted partner to help drive innovation and growth in Chewton, Victoria, Australia, look no further than COLETEK. With our extensive experience, innovative spirit, and commitment to exceeding expectations, we're confident that together, we can build something truly remarkable. Let's get started today!
