HighPlex
AusDiagnostics
Redesigned to align with AusDiagnostics’ new design language while preserving critical functional performance
Reduced manufacturing cost by 24%, part count by 95%, and assembly & calibration time by 163%
Created a platform for future growth through customisation and white labelling
The Brief
AusDiagnostics develops diagnostic systems that make advanced molecular testing more accessible. Their HighPlex platform uses multiplex tandem PCR to detect DNA and RNA targets from biological samples – processing up to 24 samples per run and identifying up to 40 target genes in under 3.5 hours.
AusDiagnostics approached us to redesign HighPlex to align with their evolving brand language while improving its value proposition – without compromising the core functionality that laboratories depend on. Beyond the brief, we identified opportunities to streamline manufacturing, assembly, calibration, and maintenance, reduce costs, and create a platform that supports future customisation and white-labelling.
Challenges & Opportunities
- Redesign could not increase the machine’s footprint
- No major changes to core operational functionality
- Design for manufacture, assembly, calibration, maintenance, operation, and transportation
- Ensure clear visual alignment with the AusDiagnostics product family
- Improve internal visibility and serviceability
- Reduce manufacturing cost by 24%
- Reduce overall part count by 95%
- Reduce assembly and calibration time by 163%
- Improve product accuracy and ease of maintenance
- Enable customisation for OEM resale
- Explore sustainability options to reduce waste
The Results
Concept Development We presented AusDiagnostics with three distinct concepts, each with its own design direction, cost model, and manufacturing strategy. The depth of information enabled stakeholders to make a confident, rapid decision on the path forward.
Detailed Design We mapped risks, opportunities, and constraints into the final design. Detailed CAD models and purpose-built test rigs validated critical interfaces, functionality, and styling – surfacing issues early, aligning stakeholders, and avoiding costly late-stage changes.
Prototyping The fully functional prototype exceeded expectations. AusDiagnostics used it to launch HighPlex at medical conferences in Australia and Europe. Testing confirmed the functional requirements and validated significant gains in assembly time, calibration efficiency, maintenance access, and manufacturing cost.
Manufacturing Preparation We delivered a complete production-ready package: final assembly drawings, part specifications, and manufacturing files with all revisions integrated. This ensured a smooth transition from prototype to production, enabling AusDiagnostics to manufacture consistently at scale.
Design Anthology continues to support AusDiagnostics as production scales – from early low-volume runs through to mass manufacture.
