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 Kergunyah 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.
Colletek - Your Partner in Engineering and Product Development for Kergunyah, Victoria, Australia
As the gateway to the Victorian Alps, Kergunyah, Victoria, Australia is a hub of activity, industry, and innovation. As local business owners and operators look to develop and grow their enterprises, they need reliable partners who can bring expertise, creativity, and technology to the table. That's where Colletek comes in - a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001.
Colletek is proud to support businesses across Kergunyah, Victoria, Australia, providing innovative solutions that help them navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities. With our deep understanding of the region's unique needs and industries, we work closely with clients to develop tailored strategies for growth and success.
As a trusted national player in the engineering and product development space, Colletek has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional results through our collaborative approach. We bring together experts from diverse fields to craft cutting-edge solutions that meet the needs of our clients - and their customers - throughout Kergunyah, Victoria, Australia.
At Colletek, we don't just deliver technical solutions; we build long-term relationships based on trust, reliability, and open communication. Our team is always happy to work with local businesses in Kergunyah, Victoria, Australia to develop customised engineering and product development services that drive growth, improve efficiency, and enhance competitiveness.
In an ever-changing global market, it's more important than ever for regional businesses like those in Kergunyah, Victoria, Australia to stay ahead of the curve. That's where Colletek comes in - we're committed to being your trusted partner in engineering and product development, providing innovative solutions that drive growth, create jobs, and contribute to the region's prosperity.
So why wait? Join forces with a company that truly understands the regional context, has a proven track record of delivering results, and is dedicated to helping local businesses thrive. Let Colletek be your partner in engineering and product development - contact us today to start building something remarkable together!
