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 Princetown 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.
Experience the Power of COLETEK: Engineering Excellence for Princetown, Victoria, Australia and Beyond
COLETEK is a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company that has been serving businesses across Princetown, Victoria, Australia for over two decades. Our team of experts has earned a reputation as trusted advisors and partners in the region, helping companies innovate and succeed.
With our national reach, we operate throughout Australia, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and reliability. Whether you're based in Princetown, Victoria, Australia or farther afield, COLETEK is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that meet the unique needs of your business.
Taking pride in our roots, we've built strong relationships with local businesses in Princetown, Victoria, Australia and continue to support their growth and development. Our experienced team has successfully tackled complex projects across a range of industries, from manufacturing and energy to agriculture and beyond. By drawing on our collective expertise and passion for innovative engineering solutions, COLETEK helps businesses like yours thrive.
At COLETEK, we understand the importance of forming strong connections with our clients and partners in Princetown, Victoria, Australia and throughout the country. We take a comprehensive approach to engineering and product development, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and expertise to drive results that matter. Whether you're looking to launch a new product, optimize manufacturing processes, or enhance overall business performance, we're here to deliver tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.
We're proud of our national reputation for trustworthiness, reliability, and capability, built over years of hard work, innovative thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. If you're a local business in Princetown, Victoria, Australia seeking the expertise of a multidisciplinary engineering and product development partner, look no further than COLETEK.
Together, let's build something remarkable for Princetown, Victoria, Australia and beyond!
