Discover
The research was made collaboratively within a team, with the shared mission of exploring problem areas and identifying design opportunities. Many things were explored, like repairability and implementing potantial modularity in the new grinder. Gender balance in the workshops became an area of inquiry, as we quickly recognized a significant lack of female representation. Furtermore, as I did research on the subject I found that metalworking is one of the professions with the biggest gender imbalance.
Define
I introduced a new perspective by challenging the predefined narrative and introducing my user persona, Grinder Gracie, in contrast to the persona given to us by Atlas Copco, Grinder Greg. The challenge became how to design an electric grinder that was lighter, more ergonomic, and inclusive. Without compromising on industrial performance. This was driven by my questions on whom the design should cater to… Whether it should conform to the existing target group predominantly consisting of men or strive for a more transformative approach.
I interviewed then the perfect embodiment of the Grinder Gracie persona in Lina. At 22 years old, Lina works at Volvo Lastvagnar in Umeå, assembling truck cabs. For the interview, Lina invited her friend Jonna, who also works at Volvo Lastvagnar. Both Jonna and Lina shared workplace anecdotes of unequal treatment.
Develop
Besides reading about the difference in the factors of ergonomics between men and women, I wanted to conduct a test myself. I tested grip, weight distribution, and interactions together with girls from university. I realised from sketching I could move the heavy and bulky electronics to an external dock, freeing up space in the grinder and enabling a slimmer handle. A yellow twist knob could potentially reduce strain on the hand, and a yellow cord increased safety by always being visible in the workshop environment.
Deliver
The result is a Atlas Copco yellow-and-black electric angle grinder that combines technical innovation with feminist design critique. The project demonstrates how small but deliberate design decisions can change who feels seen, included, and confident using professional tools.
EVS: Next Generation Angle Grinder
In collaboration with industry giant Atlas Copco, this project explored how a traditionally heavy and industrial tool could be reimagined with women in mind. The focus was on ergonomics, comfort, and safet. Challenging the standard assumptions of power tool design.
Through user testing, rapid prototyping, and even improvised “girl-tests,” I examined grip, weight distribution, and usability from new perspectives. The final concept combined performance with a form that felt approachable and inclusive, showing how subtle design shifts can open up tools to new users.
