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 Appin South 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.
Serving Businesses across Appin South, Victoria, Australia: Building Long-Term Relationships through Innovation and Expertise
As a leading multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK is proud to have built a reputation for reliability, collaboration, and capability that spans the nation. Our expertise has been honed across various industries and sectors, allowing us to tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of businesses in Appin South, Victoria, Australia.
With a strong presence based in Appin South, Victoria, Australia, we have developed a deep understanding of the local business landscape. We know that every organisation has its own set of challenges and goals, which is why our team is dedicated to working closely with clients to develop innovative solutions that address their specific requirements. Whether you're an established player or just starting out, we believe in empowering your growth and success through tailored engineering and product development services.
As a trusted national partner, COLETEK operates throughout Australia, including Appin South, Victoria, Australia, where we have been instrumental in driving business transformations, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing overall competitiveness. Our commitment to innovation, customer-centricity, and continuous improvement has earned us a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy partner for businesses seeking expert guidance and support.
What sets COLETEK apart is our multidisciplinary approach, which brings together experts from engineering, product development, and multiple industries. This unique blend of skills enables us to deliver comprehensive services that address the complex needs of Appin South, Victoria, Australia's businesses. By working collaboratively with our clients, we co-create solutions that not only meet their immediate needs but also position them for long-term success.
If you're looking for a trusted partner in engineering and product development, one that has the capability to support your growth and innovation, look no further than COLETEK. With our extensive experience serving businesses across Appin South, Victoria, Australia and throughout Australia, we are confident that together, we can build something remarkable.
