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 Bangerang 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.
Engineering Innovation for Businesses in Bangerang, Victoria, Australia
As a leading multidisciplinary engineering and product development company, COLETEK has been serving businesses across Bangerang, Victoria, Australia and throughout the nation since 2001. With a strong reputation built on innovation, reliability, and collaboration, we take pride in supporting local industries that fuel growth and prosperity in our community.
Based in Bangerang, Victoria, Australia, COLETEK's team of experts has extensive experience in engineering and product development, helping businesses navigate complex technical challenges. Our capabilities span multiple domains, from mechanical and electrical engineering to software development and data analytics. This multidisciplinary approach enables us to provide holistic solutions that address the unique needs of each client.
Operating throughout Australia, including Bangerang, Victoria, we've established trusted relationships with businesses across various sectors. Our dedication to delivering exceptional results has earned us a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy partner for companies seeking innovative solutions to their technical challenges.
We take pride in our ability to collaborate closely with clients from diverse industries, including manufacturing, construction, and aerospace. By leveraging our expertise in engineering and product development, we empower local businesses to capitalize on new opportunities, improve operational efficiency, and make a lasting impact on the national economy.
COLETEK's commitment to excellence is unwavering, as we strive to meet the ever-evolving demands of our clients while staying ahead of the curve in technological advancements. Our trusted national reputation means businesses in Bangerang, Victoria, Australia can confidently turn to us for support in navigating technical challenges and achieving their goals.
To drive meaningful change and growth in Bangerang, Victoria, Australia, we invite visionary business leaders and entrepreneurs to join forces with COLETEK. Together, let's unlock the full potential of innovation, harnessing our collective expertise to build a brighter future for our community.
