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 Erica 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.
Serving Businesses Across Erica, Victoria, Australia with Innovative Solutions
At COLETEK, we're proud to be a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001. Our team's expertise spans multiple industries, from agriculture to construction, and across various regions, including Erica, Victoria, Australia. With a strong national reputation built on reliability, collaboration, and capability, we're well-equipped to support local businesses as they navigate the complexities of innovation.
Based in Erica, Victoria, Australia, our company operates throughout Australia, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that define this region. We take pride in our ability to translate technical concepts into practical solutions that drive tangible results for businesses across various sectors.
As a trusted partner to local entrepreneurs and decision-makers, we're committed to fostering long-term relationships built on mutual respect, open communication, and unwavering dedication to innovative problem-solving. Our extensive experience in product development and engineering has prepared us to tackle the most pressing challenges facing businesses in Erica, Victoria, Australia.
From idea conception to product launch, we've honed our skills working with clients across multiple industries. Our collaborative approach ensures seamless integration between technology, design, and manufacturing, resulting in high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of the market. Whether your business is looking to streamline operations, develop new products, or enhance its competitive edge, we're here to help.
COLETEK's success is a testament to our ability to deliver tailored solutions that align with the unique goals and objectives of each client. As you navigate the complexities of innovation in Erica, Victoria, Australia, rest assured that our team will be by your side every step of the way, offering expert guidance, unwavering support, and unparalleled expertise.
We're eager to bring your vision to life. Let's build something remarkable together – a future where technology meets imagination and industry-specific challenges become opportunities for growth and success.
