Desktop Towers | hp | 2014 - 2015
The design language for hp's 2015 desktop towers lineup is characterized by a simplistic form intersected by a ribbon-like column to create a bold iconic gesture. The ribbon is meant to disguise otherwise unsightly I/O and optical disk drives, while serving as a unifying aesthetic detail which gives a related family appearance starting at the low end/OPP SKU and spanning up through the premium and high-end gaming segments.
The ENVY tower features an aluminum door concealing the optical disk drive for a clean appearance. The door was engineered with an over-center torsion spring arrangement to stay closed when not in use, but spring open automatically when impacted by the slim tray disk drive. Recessed top I/Os maintain a clean appearance while providing convenient access options when the tower is stored under a desk.
Updated Design
Predeccessor
Honest, Simple
The entire front face of the updated design is made from anodized aluminum, yet the bill-of-materials cost for the new design is less expensive than the all-plastic design which it replaced. This was achieved through simplification and thoughtful allocation of the budget. 13 cosmetic parts were reduced to just 4 and the savings was invested into premium materials and finishing with the goal of building a product that people will be proud to own and display at home for years to come.
Sophisticated Gaming
Premium materials and simplistic forms give the high-performance gaming tower a more sophisticated presence than the highly decorated plastic boxes with which it competes.
credit to Saro Nalbandian for concept design contributions on gaming tower
Color for the Masses
The mid-range towers were given bold colors, a choice that proved popular with buyers as it breathed life into a category which was otherwise stale
Opening Price Point
credit to Matt Day for concept design contributions on slim form factor tower
CONTRIBUTIONS:
Lead Designer: created and developed the iconic "vertical ribbon" form language focusing on centralized I/Os and ribbon-like column for a brand-ownable appearance, managed design efforts through concept/development/production. Direct engagement with manufacturers including on-site troubleshooting, design interface to cross-functional teams
CAD: produced detailed CAD for manufacturing including all cosmetic surfaces and certain mechanical features
Extensive troubleshooting and development while working with inexperienced suppliers for metal cosmetic parts and lighting features. This involved designing jigs and fixtures for sheet metal processing, and creating optical guides to achieve intended light distribution on the gaming PC’s light strips.