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 Glenaladale 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.
Trusted Engineering and Product Development for Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia
Coletek is a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001 with a strong presence operating throughout Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia. Having spent years honing our expertise in the region's unique market needs, we're well-positioned to support local businesses.
As a trusted partner, Coletek is committed to delivering innovative solutions that consistently deliver results for businesses in Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia and across Australia. Our extensive knowledge and capability enable us to tackle complex projects and overcome the challenges that come with staying ahead of the curve in today's fast-paced industry landscape.
We're all about building strong relationships and fostering a culture of collaboration with our clients to ensure their needs are met and exceeded. From concept development through design, testing, and implementation, we leverage our engineering prowess to bring ideas to life and turn concepts into tangible realities that drive business growth.
As you look for reliable partners based in Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia, to help grow your business, you can count on Coletek's expertise. With years of experience serving businesses across Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia, we're equipped to tackle the unique challenges and opportunities that come with operating in this region.
As a national player with strong regional roots and understanding, Coletek brings a unique blend of technical know-how, local insight, and operational excellence. We welcome the opportunity to put our trusted reputation to work for your business, serving as a go-to partner in Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia, and throughout Australia.
Ready to unlock new possibilities with a forward-thinking engineering and product development company that puts Glenaladale, Victoria, Australia at its heart? Let's build something remarkable together by tapping into Coletek's expertise. Reach out today!
