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 Speed 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.
Empowering Innovation in Speed, Victoria, Australia
As a trusted engineering and product development company based in Melbourne, COLETEK has been serving businesses across Speed, Victoria, Australia for over two decades. Our multidisciplinary team is renowned for their innovative approach, reliability, and exceptional collaboration skills.
In an era of digital transformation, it's crucial to partner with experts who understand the complexities of engineering and product development. Established in 2001, COLETEK has earned a reputation as one of Australia's most trusted and respected companies, operating throughout Speed, Victoria, Australia, and beyond.
At COLETEK, we pride ourselves on being more than just an engineering or product development company – we're partners who understand the unique challenges facing businesses in Speed, Victoria, Australia. With a deep understanding of local industry dynamics, our team works closely with clients to co-create innovative solutions that drive growth and competitiveness.
Whether you're looking for strategic advice, bespoke product development, or a trusted partner to bring your vision to life, COLETEK is committed to delivering exceptional results. Our team is dedicated to understanding the specific needs of businesses in Speed, Victoria, Australia, helping them overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their goals.
We take pride in our ability to form lasting relationships with clients across various industries in Speed, Victoria, Australia. Our team's dedication to collaboration, reliability, and innovative thinking has earned us a reputation as one of the most trusted engineering and product development companies operating in Speed, Victoria, Australia.
As you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Speed, Victoria, Australia, why not partner with an expert who shares your passion for innovation and growth? COLETEK is ready to help local businesses achieve remarkable things – let's build something extraordinary together!
