HP Abacus was a new design language program for HP calculators. HP Calculators like the HP 35 have a very well known and iconic look. They have a large and loyal following so it was no small task to take on a new look for them. The Abacus program refreshed the look in a way that preserved the quality appearance but updated it to a new generation of users.
I initiated Abacus, created the scope for the design program and hired external ID talent. I oversaw executive level meetings on the design where I worked to get buy-in and funding.
I worked closely with Chris Jones, Principal Project Designer at Frog design and oversaw the creation of prototypes that demonstrated both near and far term design elements, cost hierarchies and all 3 product categories of financial, scientific and graphing calculator lines.
I then joined the HP handheld group and personally designed 6 more calculators in the new language for production, including the 40b as shown on the right.
I improved the consumer out of box experience by inventing and patenting a packaging system that got rid of the dreaded clamshell packaging. It reduced weight and material usage by 30%. It also had a unique easy open feature that allowed easier opening at home while still curtailing theft in the store.
Left: Photo of my design of the HP 20b. The lower end version of the HP 40b.
I also designed a special promotional calculator called the HP Quick Calc. This was a high quality, calculator made to go into purses and on the refrigerator. Over 15 years later, mine is still on the refrigerator, still operating off of the original battery!
The HP Prime Graphing calculator is an example of how the language has evolved nicely since it's inception in 2006.
Unfortunately for most models, HP is now back to selling the older and cheaper non-abacus designs, except for their highest end calculators, such as the HP Prime, which still follows the Abacus ID language.
I also designed accessories in the new language while with the handheld group. StreamSmart is a companion for graphic calculators that allows the connection of different scientific instruments, such as temperature probes, for field recording and calculating of scientific data.
