Design a small, lightweight, and powerful cordless screwdriver that can get into tight places. It was targeted as the ideal tool for cabinet installers who are putting screws into the tight corners of cabinets.
This case study highlights Bullseye Design Worx’ capabilities in effective, efficient power tool product design. Once commissioned and briefed on the target market for this cordless power screwdriver, opportunities were found to watch cabinet installations and ask the cabinet installers what they needed. Second, we worked to identify internal product components. In addition, the intent was to base the design off the Black & Decker 2-position screwdriver but make it more robust looking, especially around the pivot point. We developed an oversized pivot area, and accented it with the contrasting black center disc and a double hexhead bolt to hold the two halves together. From a functional, operational standpoint, we developed a very thin profile position release switch that can be easily used by the thumb and also incorporated little wings on the ends of the trigger to let users know by touch if their finger was close to losing contact with the button. Several handle profiles also were tested to see which was the most comfortable and could fit the internal components inside the body design. We also designed in two screw bit holders near the base since one bit always seems to get lost. The product design process was completed after successfully incorporating the DeWALT signature design elements like the pyramid handle texture, D-shape vents, and use of geometric styling elements throughout the design. DeWALT’s signature yellow, black, and silver color scheme completed the design.
– A beefy portable screwdriver that could be used inline or in the pistol position that delivered surprising performance in a compact package. This great combination quickly doubled its anticipated sale projections in the first year and remained on the market for more than 10 years. (This is 4-5 years longer than the normal product life cycle of most DeWalt main line tools.)
While originally designed for cabinet installers, this power tool quickly became popular in factories where it was used to assemble products on assembly lines. It was lightweight, had an interchangeable battery design that allowed it to keep running, was much quieter than air tools, and did not require the costly infrastructure. Often, products will find themselves used in markets and applications that were not originally anticipated that help sales and the bottom line. Embrace these opportunities and evaluate if this is an unexpected market for the new product is a strategic opportunity to organically grow your market, sales, and revenue.