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 Barraport West 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.
COLETEK: Delivering Trusted Engineering and Product Development Solutions to Barraport West, Victoria, Australia and Beyond
Innovative businesses in Barraport West, Victoria, Australia are driving change across industries, and COLETEK is proud to be a trusted partner in this journey. As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, we have earned a reputation for reliability and expertise.
With our roots firmly planted in Barraport West, Victoria, Australia, we take pride in supporting local businesses as they navigate the complexities of modern industry. From traditional manufacturers to cutting-edge start-ups, we empower each client with tailored solutions that drive growth and innovation.
Fortified by our national reputation for excellence, COLETEK is uniquely positioned to leverage our multidisciplinary capabilities in engineering and product development. By drawing on this collective expertise, we facilitate seamless collaboration between stakeholders, ensuring that every project aligns with the unique needs of businesses operating throughout Barraport West, Victoria, Australia.
At COLETEK, we recognize the importance of establishing lasting relationships built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. By becoming an integral part of each client's ecosystem, we empower local businesses in Barraport West, Victoria, Australia to thrive in today's fast-paced environment.
We don't just design, develop, and deliver innovative solutions – we share the expertise and knowledge gained from decades of serving businesses across Barraport West, Victoria, Australia. Our passion for engineering and product development is matched only by our enthusiasm for connecting with the vibrant community that drives Barraport West, Victoria, Australia.
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or an ambitious newcomer to the world of Barraport West, Victoria, Australia business, rest assured that COLETEK stands ready to support your growth and success. Come join us in shaping the future of your industry – let's build something remarkable together.
