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 Nichols Point 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.
Transform Your Business in Nichols Point, Victoria, Australia with COLETEK's Expertise
We're thrilled to have worked with numerous businesses in Nichols Point, Victoria, Australia, and across the nation, supporting their growth and innovation. As a multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company established in 2001, we're proud of our reputation as a trusted partner for forward-thinking organizations.
Based in Nichols Point, Victoria, Australia, our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results that exceed expectations. Whether you're looking to develop cutting-edge products or streamline your operations, we're here to collaborate with you every step of the way. Our multidisciplinary approach brings together experts from various engineering and product development disciplines, ensuring that your project receives a comprehensive, innovative solution.
As a trusted partner in Nichols Point, Victoria, Australia, and throughout Australia, we take pride in our reliability, adaptability, and passion for delivering high-quality outcomes. Our capabilities span across diverse industries and sectors, from healthcare to manufacturing, and we're committed to helping businesses like yours thrive in today's fast-paced economic environment.
At COLETEK, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with operating in Nichols Point, Victoria, Australia. That's why we're dedicated to providing tailored solutions that cater to your specific needs and goals. Whether you're seeking to improve operational efficiency, enhance product development capabilities, or innovate your business model, we'll work closely with you to identify areas of improvement and develop strategies for long-term growth.
So why wait? Let us bring our expertise to the table and help drive your vision forward. Operating throughout Australia, including Nichols Point, Victoria, Australia, we're ready to collaborate with local businesses, just like yours, to achieve remarkable results. Take the first step towards unlocking your full potential – get in touch with us today.
