INNOVATION GALLERY
Welcome to IDC Hunter’s online Innovation Gallery. Please click on the titles below to view new invention profiles and learn more about some of the inventors IDC has had the opportunity of working with in helping to commercialise their new ideas.
Scanalert Vehicle Warning System
IP Status
Australian Patent 705832, U.S. Patent 6069558 and Registered Trade Mark 851829
Development Stage
Proven Market Demand with System in Distribution
Inventor Objective
Sale of eterprise including associated equipment, intellectual property (IP) assets and transferable contracts


The Scanalert Vehicle Warning System (Scanalert) is a collision avoidance system used in warehouses, manufacturing plants etc to prevent forklifts accidentally colliding with obstacles such as walls, doorways or service conduits (e.g. communications, electricity, water).
The system uses reflective tape, which is attached (via adhesive backing or screws) across the overhead path a forklift travels. Sensors retro-fitted to a forklift then detects the tape (either vertically or horizontally) and alerts the forklift operator of an impending obstacle relative to programmed parameters.
The Scanalert system offers a wide range of benefits including:
- Improves safety and mitigates damage to property;
- Modular, easy to install and fully programmable using Windows based software;
- Runs independent of building infrastructure power supply;
- Reflective tape easily relocated to suit changes in workplace; and
- Easily serviced and affordable.
The system also offers fleet management solutions including operator identification, speed monitoring and control and forklift tyne height automation in designated areas.
Folding Diamond Bicycle
IP Status
PCT/AU2011/000120
Development Stage
Working Prototype (Two models available)
Inventor Objective
Seeking licensee


The Folding Diamond Bicycle is an innovative new design for a folding bicycle. The bicycle has been created to provide a lightweight, portable personal transport solution without sacrificing ride quality and comfort.
The Folding Diamond Bicycle offers a range of product benefits including:
- Innovative design – unique folding method retains proven weight, strength and rigidity of the diamond frame;
- Folds in 20 seconds without the need for tools and with all parts retained on the bicycle;
- Weighs only 8kgs;
- Space saving – easily carried on public transport or in a car boot;
- Wide market appeal – urban commuters, boat owners, grey nomads etc; and
- Design can be adapted to produce a variety of models including a folding frame, with regular sized quick-release wheels.
Picnic Set
IP Status
Provisional Patent Application AU2008904028
Development Stage
Concept CAD Drawings
Inventor Objective
Seeking Licensee

The Picnic Set is an innovative new picnicware product used to conveniently house, transport, dispense and store plates, cutlery, napkins and a combined salt and pepper shaker.
The product is a new take on conventional picnic sets, offering added features and benefits courtesy of its unique, highly-compact design.
The Picnic Set takes up minimum space and can be used in the home or away - for barbeques, picnics, camping trips, caravanning, boating etc. The product’s novel design also allows the Picnic Set to be pulled apart for ease of cleaning.
Carportable
IP Status
Patents granted in USA and New Zealand
PCT WO05068752A1
Patent applications filed in Australia, Canada, Europe, Japan and China
Development Stage
Product available for sale
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution


Tony Songest came up with his bright idea for the Carportable in 1999 after one of the worst hailstorms in Sydney. The storm affected residents from Wollongong to Terrigal, delivered hailstones of up to 13cm in diameter and caused $2.3 billion in damage - $6000 of which was paid by Tony.
As the name suggests, the Carportable is a portable carport (i.e the garage that goes with you) used to provide temporary or semi permanent shelter for vehicles and protect them from the elements. The Carportable can also be used as a shelter for boats, jet skis, trailers or as a shaded play area for children.
The product is quick and easy to assemble and can be stationed on any hard/flat surface including bitumen or grass. The Carportable is waterproof so keeps whatever’s underneath clean and dry. The product not only provides a barrier from normal weather conditions but has also been tested in winds of over 40kph. It may also protect against some hail, using a ‘trampoline’ effect.
Tony has worked in collaboration with Stephen Anderson to develop the final Carportable product, which is now commercially available and enjoying sales success.
Cutter
IP Status
PCT WO08014546C1
Development Stage
Licensing Agreement Secured


The Cutter is a handheld paper trimming tool, of similar shape to a computer mouse. The device includes a fixed blade and rotating disk, which are actuated by rolling the Cutter forward along four small wheels positioned on its underside.
The tool can be used to trim paper stock including card or photographs and is safe to use on flat surfaces without the need for a cutting mat. The Cutter also includes a measurement rule, to allow the device to be guided during trimming to produce a straight edge and/or at the desired trim amount.
The device offers a number of unique product benefits including:
- Design appeal – ergonomic, computer mouse style design is distinct compared to existing paper trimming tools and makes the device easy to handle/use;
- Built-in measurement rule/guide – ensures straight trim lines;
- Portability – compact and lightweight;
- Safety – device is safe to use on tabletops without need for cutting mats. The blade is also hidden, which prevents risk of personal injury; and
- No maintenance required for blade.
Seagrass Friendly Mooring System
IP Status
Standard Patent AU2006213936
Development Stage
Product available for sale
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution


Newcastle inventor Des Maslen has been working in the marine and engineering industries for over 26 years. During this time Des has seen the damage and degradation to seagrass beds as a result of traditional style mooring systems used (e.g. dump weight and chain moorings).
Seagrass is a vital component of the marine ecosystem. It grows in shallow waters where the sun’s light can penetrate for the photosynthesis to take place. Vessel owners also like these shallow waters and this is where the problem arises as traditional moorings don't allow for both to co-exist.
To solve the problem Des developed the Seagrass Friendly Mooring System - the first cost effective method to moor a vessel in ecologically sensitive areas without causing damage to the seabed.
The Seagrass Friendly Mooring System is available in three sizes as well as being available as a mooring point only, ideal as an accurate, permanent and discrete hold point for floating jetties and parallel to shore berths to keep your vessel away from the bank.
FLOWSTOPPER™ Plugging Device
IP Status
Standard Patent AU2005220195
Development Stage
Product available for sale and distribution
Inventor Objective
Seeking distributors


FLOWSTOPPER™ plugging device is an innovative plumbing product designed by licensed plumber/inventor, Neal Borland. The solution-based plumbing tool has been engineered to overcome common difficulties faced by plumbers when repairing broken copper water pipes 20mm (3/4”) - 100mm (4”).
Through his own maintenance plumbing business, Neal Borland identified a need for a more effective means of plugging the residual flow of water when cutting out and repairing broken copper water pipes compared to traditional methods such as pipe freezing or blocking pipes using a loaf of bread. Following a decade of research and development and two years of field-testing the FLOWSTOPPER™ plugging device is now available.
The innovative tool has been well-received by the Australian plumbing industry with plumbers from around the country taking advantage of the product’s benefits – including quicker repair time (no need to wait for pipes to drain before commencing work), added revenue stream (through additional charge out for tool) and reduced costs (as services such as pipe freezing are no longer required). Another key feature is the ability to oxyacetylene weld with the FLOWSTOPPER™ plugging device still inside the pipe thanks to the product’s high-temperature resistant stainless steel hose.
The FLOWSTOPPER™ plugging device is now available at a range of leading plumbing supply outlets. The company is looking to expand domestic and international distribution and is currently seeking interest from potential distributors. For further product information and to see how this great invention works, visit http://www.flowstopper.com.au/.
freeFORM Board
IP Status
PCT WO2007/112495, EP2007486A1, AU7233569BB
Development Stage
Product available for sale and distribution
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution


The freeFORM Board is a precision-engineered fitness training tool that rolls in any direction and helps to improve functional strength and fitness, enabling users to achieve better results faster.
The highly innovative training tool was developed by Yoga teacher Tony Susnjara, who originally designed the freeFORM Board to assist his pupils executing a difficult 'jump through' manoeuvre during classes. By allowing them to complete the move correctly while supporting much of their body weight, students were able to - without injury - incrementally achieve the strength, flexibility and co-ordination required to carry out the full action.
The freeFORM Board allows you to condition every major muscle-joint complex in the body through a full range of motion, in every direction, and through every angle and plane of motion. As such, the significant benefits beyond yoga are soon realised.
Tony dedicated three years to development and testing of the freeFORM Board, which is now available to all health and fitness professionals around the world.
Cable Advancing Device
IP Status
PCT WO2008106726A1
Development Stage
Working prototype
Inventor Objective
Seeking licensing agreement


The Cable Advancing Device is an electrical installation tool used for drawing cable through conduit pipe. The device consists of a winch and guide/turning roller, which is operated manually by rotation of a drive nut with ratchet arm or using a battery drill to provide rotary force.
The invention has been designed primarily for electrical contractors but can be used by other cabling professionals for telecommunications, security and fire protection. The device can also be used in both domestic and industrial cabling installations.
The Cable Advancing Device offers a number of unique product benefits including:
- An improved/easier means of drawing electrical cables through conduit;
- Can be used for a variety of conduit sizes (up to Ø62mm in diameter);
- Can pull a number of cables at a time;
- Prevents damage (associated with alternative means) to cable and conduit during installation;
- Increased pulling force allows cable to be pulled through conduit pipe by one person i.e. reduced number of people required for installation compared to alternative methods; and
- Provides cabling professionals with improved/safer work environment i.e. removes risk of injury associated with manual/hand pulling.
Safesack Security Backpack
IP Status
Standard Patent AU2005282214
Development Stage
Product available for sale and distribution
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution


Newcastle inventor, Simon Hasson has devised a clever way of keeping valuable items you carry with you safe. The ‘Safesack’ is a backpack, which incorporates a locking mechanism to keep items such as your keys, mobile phone, wallet/purse or even your laptop secure while you’re away from your bag.
Simon came up with the Safesack concept in December 2003 after taking his children to the beach. “While I was sitting at the beach supervising my kids who were bodyboarding, I heard an announcement over the loudspeaker, “Beware of bag thieves, keep an eye on your bags”. The announcement was repeated every 15 minutes or so. Then I started to look at the way people would talk on their mobiles then wrap them in their towel and go for a swim, leaving their mobile phone available for thieves to walk off with”, says Simon.
Following this, Simon shopped around and found that there were no products in the marketplace that could solve the problem - he then set about coming up with his own solution. The inventor went to work cutting up bags and attaching lockable bike chains to them. After a cupboard full of potential prototypes and three years of careful design Simon had developed the Safesack, which is now commercially available.
As well as being able to secure your valuables while away from your bag, the backpack has a range of extra features including padded laptop pocket, drink bottle holders, headphone port, mobile phone holder and additional pockets and internal zipper pouches for your keys, MP3 player or other items.
MYJIGS Window and Door Installation Jig
IP Status
Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2009903662
Registered Design No.12931/2009
Development Stage
Product commercially available
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution and/or secure licensing agreement

Developed by carpenter and serial inventor, Steven Rigter, the MYJIG Window and Door Installation Jig is a reusable tool for the installation of revealed windows, sliding doors, door jamb frames and the like.
During his 30 plus years as a carpenter (particularly when specialising in fix-out joinery) Steven often came across incorrectly installed windows and doors. This resulted in wasted time rectifying work and also affected the quality of the finish joinery (e.g. architraves).
The Jig improves installation time, requiring less assistance and accurately sets a window reveal or door jamb at the correct depth from a building frame - with no holding, packing or measuring required. Fixing windows and doors accurately at point of installation ensures the quality of finish joinery is uncompromised. The Jig guarantees the job is done right, the first time.
The MYJIG Window and Door Installation Jig is currently being used by builders, capenters and other tradespeople. As it’s so simple to use it is also ideal for home handypeople.
Surfboard Security Roof Rack Accessory
IP Status
Provisional Patent Application AU2008904754
Development Stage
Working prototype
Inventor Objective
Seeking licensing agreement


Surfing enthusiast, Peter Naylor developed the Surfboard Security Roof Rack Accessory to provide a more effective and convenient anti-theft system for surfboards.
The Accessory consists of four individual clamps, which are attached to vehicle roof racks to lockdown/secure a surfboard and prevent potential theft.
The clamping system is locked into place and released using a simple screw and key system. Following installation only one clamp needs to be released to remove a surfboard.
The Surfboard Security Roof Rack Accessory offers a number of unique product benefits including:
- Can be used with different roof rack systems on market;
- Clamps swivel to meet shape of the surfboard for secure fit;
- Soft/spongy underside of clamps prevents damage to boards during transport;
- Can be left attached to roof rack system when not in use; and
- Quick and easy to use.
Transtilt™
IP Status
Patents granted in Australia, New Zealand, USA, China and Mexico
Patents pending in Europe, Japan, Brazil, Canada, Spain and South Korea
Development Stage
Product available for sale, distribution and licensing
Inventor Objective
Seeking international agents and licensees


Precast concrete panels are revolutionising residential, commercial and industrial building practices. However there is an emerging problem with the safe loading, transportation and unloading of the panels. Transtilt™, invented by structural engineer, John Burke is a specially designed, patented, harnessing framework that allows precast concrete wall panels to be safely and efficiently transported and unloaded. But it’s the way in which Transtilt™ assists in the rotation of panels that really brings major benefits to the industry. The system saves time and money and delivers a dramatic improvement in workplace safety.
How Transtilt™ Works:
- Can carry panels in a variety of sizes - up to 12m long by 3.5m wide by 250mm thick;
- The Transtilt™ cradle attaches to a typical flat deck trailer via international standard container “twist lock” fittings;
- The length of the cradle can be adjusted simply by adding or removing deck segments. This enables the total load to be carried at the most efficient location to give good weight distribution on the truck trailer rig;
- Precast panels are carried on their long side and strapped in place to prevent forward, sideways and backward movement while being transported; and
- Panels are easily and safely unloaded in their horizontal position or rotated from the horizontal to the vertical with the use of just two lifting points and simple crane rigging. Individual panels are then manoeuvred into their final design location in the structure.
Rojen Safety Pole
IP Status
Standard Patent AU2002214812
Development Stage
Product available for sale and distribution
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution

Bob Richards has worked in the roofing industry for over 30 years. After witnessing a young fellow worker take a particularly serious fall one day in 1988, Bob became determined to find a cost-effective and user-friendly way of keeping roofing workers safe. As a result Bob set about developing the ‘Rojen Safety Pole’, a fall arrest system incorporating a telescoping aluminium pole mounted on a truss or rafter, which extends upwards 1.3 metres above the roof line and is topped with a stainless steel, pierced cap that spins around on nylon brushes.
The system’s design was based on the type of fall arrestor used in mineshafts. This consists of a parachute harness attached to a cable that works like a car safety belt - reeling easily in and out unless it is pulled sharply. Since fall arrestors are designed to be hung downwards, Bob rigged up a vertical pole to provide an elevated anchor point, which was the first of many steps in developing the Rojen Safety Pole.
By 2001 Bob had a good working prototype, which was demonstrated to the WorkCover Authority of NSW, Master Builders Association and a number of local councils. This generated considerable interest from major building companies. Bob then signed a three-year licensing agreement with LRI Life and Rescue International. LRI have established the Rojen Safety Pole as the only anchor point in Australia certified for use by two people, rated to withstand a 2.1-tonne impact.
Two models of the Rojen Safety Pole are now being produced and marketed: the temporary tradesman's model, and the vent pole model - which also functions as the building's mandatory sewer gas ventilation pipe and provides the permanent roof anchorage now required by legislation.
An increasing number of Rojen Safety Poles are now being fitted on government as well as private buildings around Australia. 'If the Safety Pole saves even just one life, I'll be satisfied,' says Bob.
For further information please phone +61 2 4963 5015 or email rojensafety@optusnet.com.au.
Bin Beanie
IP Status
Provisional 2006903777
Development Stage
Product available for sale and distribution
Inventor Objective
Seeking to expand distribution

Inventors, Pat and Janette Clarke developed the innovative Bin Beanie after becoming tired of continually having to spray their wheelie bins with insecticide to repel bugs.
The Bin Beanie is a specially designed mesh cover, which fits snugly over the top of a wheelie bin to prevent insects and vermin gaining access. Bin Beanie also prevents spiders from building webs under the lip and around handles.
Further product benefits offered by Bin Beanie include:
- Highly durable;
- UV resistant;
- Washable; and
- Can prevent potential garbage spillage if wheelie bin should accidentally fall over.
Bin Beanie is now commercially available and enjoying sales success, including international.