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4V TOOL PLATFORM
2022
The USB Lithium (4V) platform launched in 2022 as Ryobi’s first new battery system since 1996. Initially it struggled to stand apart from higher-voltage tools. This project reframed the platform by defining light-duty outdoor applications that complement heavier equipment, establishing the strategic, ergonomic, and visual foundations for an expanded 4V lineup, three of which are now in market.
I led the early-phase exploration, guiding a small design team through research synthesis, opportunity definition, scenario development, internal teardowns, and visual direction. The resulting visual brand language and architectural logic informed approximately 50–75% of the final shipped products.
PHASE 1
Identified useful light duty outdoor tools that would complement Ryobi’s high-power equipment. Using consumer insights, we developed visual storyboards to capture when, where, and why these tools would be used, establishing rationale and early functional benefit.
Within the broader “Outdoor Power Tools” space, we grouped opportunities and features into four categories: Pruning, Pest, Chemical and Cultivating.
SCENARIOS
OPPURTUNITES
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Perform competitor teardowns and reverse-engineered internal packages for products with most potential to understand real constraints and prepare for future project kickoff. We considered component spacing, tolerances, and ventilation needs. This work outlined the platform architecture and created a realistic foundation for early VBL development
PHASE 2
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PHASE 3
Using the architecture as a guide, developed ergonomic layouts and refined tool proportions. This sketch-based refinement established the cohesive 4V language reflected in the three tools that later shipped.
THE RESULT
We shaped the 4V platform by identifying meaningful “in-between” tools and establishing the ergonomic, architectural, and visual direction needed to create a cohesive multi-product lineup.
