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 Thorpdale South 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 Thorpdale South, Victoria, Australia: Your Partner in Engineering and Product Development
At COLETEK, we pride ourselves on being a trusted partner for businesses operating throughout the region of Thorpdale South, Victoria, Australia. With over 20 years' experience as a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, our team is equipped to provide comprehensive support to local enterprises, addressing their unique needs and challenges.
Our extensive portfolio speaks volumes about our capabilities, showcasing innovative solutions that have empowered businesses across Thorpdale South, Victoria, Australia. We're not just another engineering firm; we've built a reputation for reliability, collaboration, and capability that extends beyond the borders of this region. Our national presence enables us to operate effectively in multiple markets, ensuring you receive the best expertise possible.
We don't just know Thorpdale South, Victoria, Australia - we're deeply invested in its community. We understand the complexities of running a business within this area and tailor our engineering and product development services accordingly. Our goal is simple: to form meaningful connections with local businesses and help them thrive. Whether you need guidance on product design, testing and validation, or manufacturing process optimization, our experts will work closely with your team to find cost-effective solutions that drive real results.
Thorpdale South, Victoria, Australia may be a unique location, but its businesses share many of the same challenges and opportunities as those across Australia. At COLETEK, we're well-equipped to address these shared challenges, leveraging our combined expertise to benefit your organization. Our engineers will work in partnership with you to overcome obstacles and capitalize on new opportunities.
If you're searching for a trusted partner in engineering and product development that understands the dynamics of Thorpdale South, Victoria, Australia, you've come to the right place. Let's build something remarkable together.
