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 Turriff East 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 the Turriff East, Victoria, Australia Business Community: COLETEK's Expertise and Legacy
As a trusted and innovative engineering and product development company based in Turriff East, Victoria, Australia since 2001, at COLETEK we're passionate about empowering local businesses to achieve their goals. Our team of experts has been serving businesses across Turriff East, Victoria, Australia for nearly two decades, providing comprehensive support that drives innovation and growth.
What sets us apart? Our commitment to collaboration, reliability, and capability. We thrive on working closely with clients from diverse industries to develop customized solutions that meet their unique needs. Whether you're located in the heart of Turriff East, Victoria, Australia or anywhere throughout Australia, we're dedicated to helping your business succeed.
Our multidisciplinary approach enables us to tackle complex challenges and deliver cutting-edge products that transform industries. From concept development to commercialization, our expertise spans multiple disciplines, including engineering, product design, and manufacturing. By leveraging this collective wisdom, we empower businesses in Turriff East, Victoria, Australia and nationwide to advance their offerings and stay ahead of the curve.
So why choose COLETEK for your business in Turriff East, Victoria, Australia or beyond? It's simple: our reputation for trustworthiness, innovation, and reliability has earned us a trusted national presence. By partnering with COLETEK, you gain access to experienced professionals who understand the distinct needs of businesses in Turriff East, Victoria, Australia and throughout Australia.
We're proud of our heritage as an Australian company established in 2001 and our commitment to supporting local businesses and communities like those in Turriff East, Victoria, Australia. Now it's your turn: let us help you build something remarkable.
