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 Pearsondale 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.
Partnering with Businesses in Pearsondale, Victoria, Australia for Innovative Solutions
As a key player in the Australian engineering and product development scene, COLETEK has built a reputation as a trusted partner for businesses across Pearsondale, Victoria, Australia. Since our establishment in 2001, we've consistently demonstrated our capabilities in delivering reliable, tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of local industries. Our commitment to innovation and collaboration sets us apart from other engineering firms, making us an ideal choice for companies seeking to drive growth and success.
In Pearsondale, Victoria, Australia, there's a thriving business landscape that demands attention, creativity, and forward-thinking expertise. COLETEK is well-positioned to support the region's entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and service providers as they navigate industry trends and technological advancements. By combining our multidisciplinary engineering prowess with your valuable insights, we can co-create innovative products, processes, or services that give you a competitive edge in the market.
With our national reputation for trustworthiness, COLETEK has earned the confidence of businesses operating throughout Pearsondale, Victoria, Australia. Whether you're looking to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, or stay ahead of emerging trends, we bring a deep understanding of local needs and challenges. As your trusted partner, we'll work closely with you to understand your goals, identify opportunities for growth, and develop customized solutions that deliver tangible results.
At COLETEK, we're proud to have built our foundation on a bedrock of reliability, collaboration, and capability. By leveraging the latest engineering tools, techniques, and research, we equip businesses in Pearsondale, Victoria, Australia with the skills and resources necessary to succeed. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a reputation as a go-to partner for innovative problem-solving and product design.
We're excited to bring this same level of passion and expertise to your organization. Explore how our multidisciplinary engineering capabilities can help your business thrive in Pearsondale, Victoria, Australia and beyond. Contact COLETEK today to start building something remarkable together!
