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 Waygara 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.
Succeeding in Waygara: Expert Engineering Support for Local Businesses and Communities
As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK is proud to serve businesses across Waygara, Victoria, Australia. Our team of experts brings together decades of experience and knowledge from various fields, enabling us to provide reliable and trusted support for local entrepreneurs and decision-makers.
Leveraging our strong national reputation and innovative approach, we are committed to helping businesses in Waygara, Victoria, Australia – from small startups to large corporations – overcome their unique challenges. Whether you're looking to improve operational efficiency, develop new products, or enhance your digital capabilities, COLETEK is here to guide you every step of the way.
Our team understands the distinct needs and realities of businesses in Waygara, Victoria, Australia, from the agricultural sector to manufacturing and beyond. By partnering with us, you'll gain access to our collective expertise: a deep understanding of local market conditions, regulatory requirements, and regional industry trends. We'll work closely together, tailoring solutions that address your specific needs and goals.
In today's fast-paced business environment, Waygara entrepreneurs require trusted partners who can deliver results-driven engineering and product development solutions. COLETEK is committed to exceeding expectations by fostering close relationships with our clients, staying attuned to their evolving requirements, and consistently providing exceptional service delivery.
COLETEK operates throughout Australia, including Waygara, Victoria, Australia. We believe that local businesses deserve expert support from national authorities who understand their unique challenges and opportunities. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your objectives through our multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in engineering, product development, and project delivery.
We're honored to serve the Waygara community and are excited about the prospect of collaborating with local businesses. Join us today by exploring our comprehensive services and solutions designed to propel your organization forward. Let's work together to create a brighter futures for industries across Waygara, Victoria, Australia!
