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 Thologolong 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.
Partnering with Thologolong Businesses: Timeless Engineering Expertise for a Flourishing Future
In the heart of Victoria, Australia lies the thriving community of Thologolong – a place where entrepreneurs and innovators come together to shape the future. At COLETEK, we're proud to be a trusted partner in this journey, serving businesses across Thologolong, Victoria, Australia with our multidisciplinary engineering and product development expertise.
For over two decades, our team has been dedicated to delivering customised solutions that drive growth, efficiency, and success. As a nationally respected company established in 2001, we've had the privilege of working with clients from diverse industries and geographical regions – including Thologolong, Victoria, Australia. Our long-standing reputation is built on our unwavering commitment to reliability, collaboration, and capability.
We understand that every business is unique, which is why our approach focuses on embracing each client's distinct needs and goals. By combining creative problem-solving with cutting-edge engineering know-how, we empower Thologolong businesses to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve unparalleled results. Our expertise spans a wide range of sectors and industries, allowing us to provide tailored support to companies like yours operating throughout Victoria, Australia.
At COLETEK, our passion is straightforward: to help Thologolong thrive through innovative engineering solutions that transform the local economy and leave a lasting positive impact. Whether you're seeking to streamline operations, enhance product offerings, or simply find new ways to stay ahead in today's fast-paced marketplace – we're here to collaborate with you every step of the way.
In Thologolong, Victoria, Australia and across the country, businesses turn to COLETEK for our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional results. Trust us to be your trusted engineering partner, committed to fostering long-term relationships built on mutual respect, open communication, and a deep understanding of your goals. Let's build something remarkable together.
