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 St Helens Plains 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.
Empowering Businesses in St Helens Plains, Victoria, Australia with Innovative Engineering Solutions
As a trusted national engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK has built its reputation on delivering reliable, collaborative solutions that empower businesses to thrive. Our multidisciplinary team of experts is dedicated to supporting companies like yours across St Helens Plains, Victoria, Australia, by providing tailored engineering and product development services.
By choosing COLETEK, you can rest assured that your project is in capable hands. We pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop for businesses seeking innovative solutions, from concept to production. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a strong reputation nationwide, and we're eager to bring our expertise to your doorstep.
Located in the heart of St Helens Plains, Victoria, Australia, COLETEK is well-positioned to support local businesses looking to expand their operations, improve processes, or develop new products. Our experienced team has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by companies operating in this region and can provide tailored solutions to overcome these obstacles.
We don't just focus on building innovative products; we also prioritize collaboration and open communication with our clients to ensure that their needs are met and exceeded. By leveraging COLETEK's expertise, local businesses across St Helens Plains, Victoria, Australia, can leverage the following benefits:
- Improved product quality and reliability
- Innovative solutions tailored to meet specific needs
- Enhanced operational efficiency and productivity
- Faster time-to-market for new products and services
Whether you're looking to improve your existing operations, develop a new product line, or simply find ways to stay competitive in the market, COLETEK has got you covered. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that drive business success.
This concludes our message to businesses in St Helens Plains, Victoria, Australia. If you're ready to take your organization to the next level with innovative engineering solutions, we invite you to start a conversation with us today.
