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 Townsville 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.
Serving Businesses in Townsville, Queensland, Australia: Partnering for Success with COLETEK
As the leading multidisciplinary Australian engineering and product development company since 2001, we've earned a reputation as trusted innovators, collaborating with businesses across Townsville, Queensland, Australia, to drive growth and transformation. With our expert teams based in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, and operating throughout the region, we're committed to backing local organisations, supporting regional initiatives, and fostering community development – all while maintaining our national presence.
We don't just talk innovation; we live it. Our engineers and product developers work intimately with clients, leveraging their expertise to design, develop, and deliver solutions tailored to Townsville's unique needs. From concept to reality, we're dedicated partners in your journey, striving for collaboration over competition, ensuring your success.
COLETEK is more than just a local engineering company; we're the reliable, capable partner you need to tackle the complex projects that propel your business forward. Our team of experienced professionals has a deep understanding of the Townsville business landscape. We're familiar with the region's key industries, challenges, and opportunities – allowing us to provide informed guidance and support for your project.
When partnering with COLETEK, you can rest assured that we'll bring our nationally recognized capabilities and expertise to the table, ensuring the best possible outcome for your business. As a Townsville-based company, we're committed to supporting local businesses navigate the ever-changing market, leveraging our collective knowledge and resources to drive growth and progress.
For more than two decades, COLETEK has consistently demonstrated its capability to deliver innovative solutions that make a meaningful impact on communities across Australia, including Townsville. We take pride in being part of this region's story – empowering local businesses and fostering economic development through our collaborative approach.
Let’s build something remarkable together.
Contact UsRapid 3D Prototyping for Townsville – Our Clients: Big Brands & Small Businesses
Rapid 3D Prototyping for Townsville – Amazing Customer Testimonials
Very reliable, professional and knowledgeable. In our office were we all amazed by Luke's knowledge of IT and how much he know about different IT issues, specially about the IP cameras. We recommend their services and we will always use their services in the future.
I was concerned with the security of my apartment when it was vacant. I contacted COLETEK and discussed the possibility of having security cameras installed with an email alert system incorporated that would advise me by email if someone entered the apartment, after getting the Internet activated, COLETEK suggested the equipment I should require and had it installed. I am more than happy with the result that was achieved, COLETEK has very good knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the requirements from the equipment I needed and also the IT side of things. I have no reservations in recommending COLETEK for this type of installation.
I had a technical design and prototype job I needed done and had contacted two companies in Brisbane before I discovered COLETEK. From my first conversation with Luke, I knew that he was the best person for the job and he delivered under budget and within the required timeframe. The device he manufactured for my company will save us thousands of dollars and it is highly likely that we will on-sell the device to similar organisations. I recommend COLETEK for any design and prototype work you can imagine for your business.
I had a technical design and prototype job I needed done and had contacted two companies in Brisbane before I discovered COLETEK. From my first conversation with Luke, I knew that he was the best person for the job and he delivered under budget and within the required timeframe. The device he manufactured for my company will save us thousands of dollars and it is highly likely that we will on-sell the device to similar organisations. I recommend COLETEK for any design and prototype work you can imagine for your business.
Founded in 2001, we are a multiple award winning, highly experienced multidisciplinary company specialising in lean product development through rapid prototyping - transforming ideas from concept to life. Our industry-leading team combines deep expertise, cutting-edge technology, and advanced equipment to validate emerging ideas—transforming them into market-ready hardware and software solutions.
Our experience dates back to the 1990s with ANU "Robotics Systems Lab", CSIRO, NICTA (aka Data61), Seeing Machines, Location Aware Technologies, and Hemisphere GPS (aka BEELINE). For over 10 years now, we've been focused on validating R&D and taking ideas to commercialisation.
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