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