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 Goongerah 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.
Servicing the Heart of Goongerah, Victoria, Australia and Beyond – Reliable Partnership for Innovative Solutions
Located in the heart of Goongerah, Victoria, Australia, COLETEK is a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001. With two decades of experience under our belt, we've earned a reputation as trusted partners for businesses in this region and across the country.
Innovative problem-solving is at the core of what we do. Our team of experts brings together a unique blend of technical expertise, creative thinking, and project management skills to deliver outcomes that exceed expectations. By basing ourselves in Goongerah, Victoria, Australia, we're able to intimately understand the regional needs and adapt our approach to cater specifically to local businesses and their challenges.
At COLETEK, collaboration is key. We believe in fostering open communication, understanding your goals, and working together to develop tailored solutions that meet your unique requirements. This dedication to partnership has earned us a national reputation as one of the most reliable and capable engineering and product development companies in Australia.
Whether you're an established business or just starting out, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. Our expertise spans multiple disciplines, from mechanical engineering to electrical design, and even software development – all under one roof. By offering comprehensive support throughout Goongerah, Victoria, Australia and beyond, we empower businesses to innovate, streamline operations, and stay competitive in today's fast-paced market.
We're committed to supporting the businesses of Goongerah, Victoria, Australia, providing top-notch engineering and product development solutions that drive growth and success. Let's build something remarkable together – Get in touch with us today and let our experts help you take your business to the next level!
