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 Upper Gundowring 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.
Trusted Engineering and Product Development Support for Upper Gundowring Businesses
COLETEK is a pioneer in the field of engineering and product development, with over two decades of experience serving businesses across Australia, including those in Upper Gundowring, Victoria. Since our inception in 2001, we have been dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that drive success for our clients.
We are proud to be a multidisciplinary Australian company that operates throughout the country, providing unparalleled support to companies like yours in Upper Gundowring and beyond. Our expertise is grounded in a deep understanding of engineering principles and an unwavering commitment to collaboration. We take pride in being trusted advisors who work closely with our clients to understand their unique challenges and develop tailored solutions.
In Upper Gundowring, Victoria, Australia's unique regional context and local character present distinct opportunities for growth and innovation. At COLETEK, we are well-equipped to support businesses in this vibrant community by harnessing the power of engineering and product development. Our clients benefit from our reliable guidance, insightful feedback, and capability to adapt to changing circumstances.
We do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we focus on building long-term relationships with our clients, fostering a culture of innovation, and driving progress through collaborative efforts. By choosing COLETEK as your trusted partner in Upper Gundowring, Victoria, Australia, you can rest assured that your business is in capable hands.
Join forces with COLETEK, and let's work together to create something remarkable. Our team will provide the expertise, creativity, and dedication required to propel your business forward. We look forward to collaborating with businesses across Upper Gundowring, Victoria, Australia and beyond.
