Sub-Compact Power

Sub-Compact Power

Big Power, Minimal Footprint

Big Power, Minimal Footprint

Developed to redefine the limits of compact cordless tools, the RIDGID 18V SubCompact line delivers full-size performance in a form factor 30% smaller and lighter than standard models. By leveraging outer rotor brushless motors—typically reserved for drones and robotics—we pushed tool architecture inward, eliminating bulk without sacrificing torque. The result: pro-level capability in a package tailored for tighter spaces and all-day use.

Year

2021

Industry

Power Tools

Scope of work

/

Industrial Design

/

Experiential Brand Language

Timeline

24 weeks

Big Power, Minimal Footprint

Developed to redefine the limits of compact cordless tools, the RIDGID 18V SubCompact line delivers full-size performance in a form factor 30% smaller and lighter than standard models. By leveraging outer rotor brushless motors—typically reserved for drones and robotics—we pushed tool architecture inward, eliminating bulk without sacrificing torque. The result: pro-level capability in a package tailored for tighter spaces and all-day use.

Year

2021

Industry

Power Tools

Scope of work

/

Industrial Design

/

Experiential Brand Language

Timeline

24 weeks

Challenges

Challenges

Challenges

Team Leadership: Directed a team of industrial designers, researchers and UX designers to establish a cohesive visual and functional language across the SubCompact line. Motor Integration Strategy: Championed the adoption of outer runner motors for their superior torque-to-size ratio, despite higher costs. This decision was pivotal in achieving the desired compactness and performance. User Interface Innovation: Redesigned control placements, moving them to the rear to prevent LED glare and enhance usability, setting a new industry standard.

Compact Power: Achieved up to 35% size reduction, enabling users to work efficiently in tight spaces. Enhanced Ergonomics: Optimized grip and balance for reduced user fatigue during extended use. Innovative UI Placement: Repositioned controls to the rear, improving visibility and preventing user distraction from LED indicators

Final thoughts

Final thoughts

Final thoughts

A Visual + Functional System That Scales

The final design language unified Moultrie’s lineup across price points, finishes (Realtree™, Smokescreen), and use cases. The Camera ID Guidelines became a cornerstone for future development, and the LTE variant established a new category benchmark in perceived quality, UI clarity, and integrated ruggedness.

Thomas Parel

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Let’s talk.

Tell me about your product—whether it’s a technical issue, hardware system, or something that still lives in your sketchbook or vision board.

Quick response.

From concept sketches to DFM-ready CAD, I move fast and work clean.

Clear next steps.

You'll get a direct, detailed response - no fluff, just what it takes to get your product moving.

VP of ID

Toughbuilt Industries

Thomas Parel

Thomas Parel

Have a project in mind?

By submitting, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

Let’s talk.

Tell me about your product—whether it’s a technical issue, hardware system, or something that still lives in your sketchbook or vision board.

Quick response.

From concept sketches to DFM-ready CAD, I move fast and work clean.

Clear next steps.

You'll get a direct, detailed response - no fluff, just what it takes to get your product moving.

VP of ID

Toughbuilt Industries

Thomas Parel

Thomas Parel

Have a project in mind?

By submitting, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

Let’s talk.

Tell me about your product—whether it’s a technical issue, hardware system, or something that still lives in your sketchbook or vision board.

Quick response.

From concept sketches to DFM-ready CAD, I move fast and work clean.

Clear next steps.

You'll get a direct, detailed response - no fluff, just what it takes to get your product moving.

VP of ID

Toughbuilt Industries

Thomas Parel

Thomas is a rare talent who is able to rapidly ideate, sketch and model innovative products, and make it look easy. He's a remarkable talent with high energy, offset by strong character and humble friendliness. He shares his knowledge freely with others. Thomas is a great fellow!.

Thomas is a rare talent who is able to rapidly ideate, sketch and model innovative products, and make it look easy. He's a remarkable talent with high energy, offset by strong character and humble friendliness. He shares his knowledge freely with others. Thomas is a great fellow!.

Doug Ritterling

Director of Industrial Design- Hoover

Doug Ritterling

Director of Industrial Design- Hoover

When it comes to defining a visual brand language from scratch, his ability to create and invent in uncharted territory is unmatched. Everything Thomas touches is cool his designs ooze passion and inspire desire. He is definitely the active ingredient.

When it comes to defining a visual brand language from scratch, his ability to create and invent in uncharted territory is unmatched. Everything Thomas touches is cool — his designs ooze passion and inspire desire. He is definitely the active ingredient.

Jaime Caso

Director of Product Design- Matador Products

Jaime Caso

Director of Product Design- Matador Products

THOMAS PAREL

THOMAS PAREL

THOMAS PAREL

Industrial Grade
Industrial Design

Industrial Grade
Industrial Design