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 Cope Cope 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 Partner for Businesses in Cope Cope, Victoria, Australia
In the heart of Cope Cope, Victoria, Australia, there are businesses that demand innovative solutions to stay ahead of the curve. As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, COLETEK has been serving businesses across this region for over two decades.
We take pride in our reputation as a reliable and trusted partner for businesses seeking engineering expertise. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to delivering bespoke solutions that meet the unique needs of each client – whether you're a local startup or an established corporation, we've got your back.
Cope Cope, Victoria, Australia, like many areas in Australia, presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. At COLETEK, we understand the importance of collaboration and capability in overcoming these challenges. We believe that effective engineering and product development require a deep understanding of local markets, regulatory environments, and cultural nuances.
That's why we're committed to working closely with businesses in Cope Cope, Victoria, Australia, offering tailored support that addresses their specific needs. Our in-house expertise spans multiple disciplines, ensuring that your project receives the attention it deserves from a dedicated team of Australian engineers.
Ours is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we believe in building strong relationships with local businesses and working together to achieve remarkable results. From ideation to prototyping, testing, and implementation – we ensure that every project meets our high standards for quality, reliability, and timeliness.
If you're looking for a partner who truly understands the Cope Cope, Victoria, Australia, landscape and is committed to delivering exceptional outcomes, look no further. Contact us today, and let's build something remarkable together.
