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 Turoar 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 Excellence for Turoar, Victoria, Australia: Partnering for Success with COLETEK
Located in the heart of Turoar, Victoria, Australia, COLETEK stands out as a trusted and innovative engineering and product development company. For over two decades, we've been building long-lasting relationships with businesses across Australia, including those in Turoar, by delivering reliable solutions that drive growth and prosperity.
Our story began in 2001 when we set out to create a multidisciplinary team that could tackle complex engineering challenges. Since then, our team has grown and evolved alongside the ever-changing landscape of technology. Today, COLETEK operates as a strong presence throughout Australia, including right here in Turoar, Victoria.
We take pride in our reputation for innovative thinking, problem-solving expertise, and exceptional collaboration skills. By understanding your unique needs and goals, we work closely with local businesses to develop tailored solutions that meet the demands of an ever-changing market. Whether you're looking to optimize operations, improve product quality, or drive new revenue streams, our team is committed to helping you achieve success.
We've had the privilege of working with clients from diverse industries across Turoar and beyond. Our passion for engineering excellence has led us to establish strong partnerships that have resulted in innovative products, efficient processes, and long-term growth for local businesses. We're not just an engineering company – we're your partner in innovation.
At COLETEK, our commitment to serving businesses across Turoar, Victoria, Australia is unwavering. We believe that by working together with our community, we can create a brighter future for everyone involved. So why wait? Join forces with us and let's build something remarkable together.
