3. Introduction
The world is constantly in demand of products that surpass its predecessor. A product, among others,
needs to be thinner, lighter, more user-friendly, and accompanied with new features and functions.
These continuously increasing demands from society have caused pressure on engineers to constantly
outperform themselves. An approach by total design is therefore needed in order to resolve this
situation.
According to Pugh (1990), total design is an activity that encompasses product, process, people and
organization. This would mean that in order to conceive a product, various inputs from different
specializations, technological and non-technological, are needed. This total design method will be
implemented by our team in order to design an interactive graphing calculator.
In this report, the market and user need brief will firstly be introduced. By conducting a survey and
comparing products competing on the market, a specific product, price range, and target market was
able to be selected. Moreover, due to this research, potential copyright infringement issues could be
avoided. This market and user need brief would then lead to the first draft design proposal, where the
team’s concept designs would be analysed using the parametric and matrix analysis and the controlled
convergence method. These two methods allow us to maintain a systematic approach in deciding which
product would be the most suitable to cater to our target market. The information obtained from this
chapter is used as the basis of the product design specification (PDS). The PDS translates the user
needs into technical specifications, aesthetics and ergonomics considerations. The last chapter will
thoroughly explain the project plan of the remaining stages of the total design activity, namely
manufacturing and sales. A list of tasks and activities will be broken down and presented by a Gantt
chart.
4. Market/user need brief
A market-oriented approach was followed in order to complete our market research. The main reason
for this approach was to gain a thorough understanding of what not only existing customers, but also
potential customers want. Using this method means that the decisions made are built around
information about the consumers’ needs and wants, instead of creating a product according to the
Businesses strength. Therefore, risks would be minimalized when making decisions regarding the
designs for the calculators. This would reduce the risk of the product failing in the market. Accurate
as well as information gained from recent research released will aid our design team to make informed
decisions, which in return, will lead to products that consumer’s desire. Finally, conducting market
oriented research will also aid in predicting future trends in the market allowing the design team to be
more innovative and produce a wider variety of designs to further analyze.
In order to conduct market research, firstly, the types of calculators existing in the market were
researched against set parameters (see table 1). Next, in order to do the user brief, a survey to
consumers was undertaken in order to see if there were desires that the market has not met yet.
Furthermore, a competition analysis for graphic calculators is given in order to have a better
understanding on the level of competition existing in the market and more information on their
products. Moreover, patents were analyzed for the graphic calculators in order to clearly understand
the constraints to designing a new product for this market. To summarize, a section on product
differentiation was provided in order to briefly outline opportunities for innovative design ideas.
Firstly of all we looked at the types of calculators available in the market. Below is a table showing
the five main types of calculators and relevant information regarding them. The key parameters in
designing a calculator are the functions, costs, and battery life. Hence, for each calculator sub sector,
research focused on these areas in order to aid designing our final product.
5. Type of
calculator
Leading
Manufacturers
Price
(GBP)
Purpose and Functions Consumer market
Printing
calculator
Canon
Casio
Sharp
Victor
20-30 Keeps record of calculations -
printing them onto a piece of tape
that can be removed then stored
as a permanent copy.
Perform basic mathematical
functions in dollars and cents.
(eBay, 2014)
Consumer printing
calculator - everyday
or occasional user,
small office/home
office setting
Commercial printing
calculator - everyday
or moderate use, busy
office setting.
Often used during tax
season by finance and
accounting
professionals
worldwide.
Victor is the number
one American brand
for printing
calculator.
Financial
Calculator
HP
Texas
Instruments
Casio
18-53
(HP the
most
expensive)
Bond calculation
Purchase price, Yield to
maturity, Depreciation
Straight Line Method
Fixed percent Method
Sum-of-the-Year's Digits
Cash Flow
Declining Balance
Break-Even Point, Calculation.
Break-Even point sales quantity
Break-Even point sales amount.
Sales amount for expected
interest. Sales amount for
expected interest rate. Margin of
Safety Degree of Operating
Leverage
Degree of Combined Leverage.
Degree of Financial Leverage
- Trigonometric / Invers
Trigonometric calculations
- Hyperbolic / Invers Hyperbolic
calculations, log, ln -
(logarithmic) calculations, 10x
, ex
- (exponential) calculations
- x2
/ ^ / x√ - (Power / Power
Root) calculations √ - (root)
calculations
- x-1
- (inverse) calculations
Financial firms
Used for processing
financial data and
calculating taxes,
costs, and interest
rates.
6. - x! - (factorial operator)
calculations
nPr (Permutation), nCr
(Combinatoric)
Random Number
Scientific
calculator
Casio
Sharp
Texas
instruments
Canon
9-18 Table functions
Square root
Exponentials
Reciprocals
Inverse hyperbolic
Backspace/delete
Fraction calculations
Logarithmic
Negative indicator
Verify functions
Prime factorisation
Degrees/minutes/seconds
Recurring decimals
Coordinate conversion
Power functions
9 variable memories
Random numbers
Radians
Trigonometry
Expression editing
Reset
Factorials
Gradients
Hyperbolic
Roots/powers
A level students
UK University
students
Europe
Africa (Kenya, South
Africa)
North America
Asia (India,
Singapore,Phillipines,
Thailand, China,
Japan)
South Amercia (Peru,
Brazil)
Australia
Graphing
Calculator
Casio
Texas
instruments
61-104 Open (e.g. windows options)
settings by mouse click (similar
to a PC mouse click)
Dynamic/Transformation
Inequality (auto shading)
Parametric
Polar, Zoom, Trace, Plot, Scroll
Table of function values
Integral calculus
Complex numbers
Editor
Matrices (max. 12 x 255)
Simultaneous equation solver
SCI/FIX/ENG Features
26 levels of parenthesis
Converts polar coordinates in
rectangular coordinates and
inverse
Hyperbolic and inverse
hyperbolic functions
Students
Engineering firms
US University
students
Secondary school
pupils
7. The table above shows the main the calculator manufacturers throughout the world. These firms are
the main competition on the market and are to be further considered when developing the product
properties. It is also obvious from the data that each different type of calculator is focused on varying
customer groups sometimes overlapping. A third deduction is that the cost of a calculator is related
to the complexity and number of functions. The more functions requiring intense software, the higher
the cost.
Calculations in centesimal
degree, arc degree and radian
Converts sexagesimal in decimal
and inverse. Automatic fraction
calculation. Random number
generator. Sign Change
2D Statistics, Permutation,
combinatory. Regression analysis
Calculates and converts in
decimal/hexadecimal/octal/binary
Logical connections AND, OR,
NOT, XOR und XNOR
Advanced statistics functions of
the evaluated statistics like t-
Test, Chi-square Test, normal
distribution, binominal
distribution. Finance
mathematics functions like
interests and compound interests,
cash flow, amortisation
Data exchange with other
graphics calculators (optional) or
PC possible
Desk
calculators
Casio
Sharp
Canon
4-26 Ideal for use outside
robust
12 digit display
Square Root
Sign Change Key
Large + Key
4 Constants (k)
3 Digit Comma Marker
Tax Calculations
Key Rollover
3 Key Memory
Correction Key
Profit Margin %
00 Key
Time Calculation
Splash and Dust Proof
Back up battery
Small businesses
Accounting
Calculating taxes
Office/classroom use
Converting units
Currency conversion
8. After analyzing the different types of calculators and essential information about their characteristics,
the graphing calculator was selected by the research team for further analysis due to the level of
innovation that could further be provided in this market.
In order to examine the market need for the calculator market, a questionnaire was conducted in
order to fully evaluate the desires and needs for both the existing, and potential customers.
Furthermore, through conducting this, a better knowledge of the market will be gained and a
potential market gap might be identified for the design team to further analyse. Finally, the
questionnaire will also help in creating a technical specification reflecting customer requirements to
be developed.
The questionnaire was created on survey monkey (see appendix 1), allowing stakeholders of the
calculator market to answer a list of questions produced by the research team. Results showed that a
total of 157 candidates participated and the results and analysis for this is given below.
Results and Analysis
The results can be found in appendix 2.
The results from the questionnaire displayed in graph 1, shows that from those surveyed, 50% were
University students, 19% were secondary students and the lowest number were Engineers with 4%.
This shows that the greatest demand for calculators based on those taking the survey are between
University and secondary school students. Furthermore, graph 2 confirms that the two main groups
of consumers (secondary students and university students) own either scientific or graphic
calculators as it shows that 59% are currently using scientific calculator, whilst 15% of interviewers
are using the graphical calculator. Moreover, from graph 3, we can clearly see that the graphic
calculator was the product that those surveyed were unhappy about as 62% selected the option of
unsatisfied for this product. Moreover, a large proportion of stakeholders selected a high amount of
satisfaction for the scientific calculators. Since the graphical calculator has been ranked as the least
satisfied product among all calculators, it shows that the graphical calculator has the largest potential
to develop a new product in the market. In addition, the results to question 4 show that function and
price are the most important properties when interviewers choose a calculator. However, properties
such as the aesthetics and the battery life are relatively least concerning factors when choosing a
calculator. Finally, the open question at the end depicts that in order to manufacture a product which
will be able to enter the market, we need to focus on:
9. Price (cost of the calculator)
Function (increase the variety of applications, screen features)
Display (larger display and more user-friendly interface)
Size (reasonable size is required)
The results to question 4 reveal that the function of a calculator is an essential criteria when buying a
calculator. However, from question 3 we can see that students who owned the graphic calculator
were unsatisfied with the product even though it had a wider variety of functions than a scientific
calculator. The reasons of this from additional notes students got to include in the survey were
mainly due to the complexity of the product and since this calculator is to be used by various
students around the world for essential purposes such as examinations, producing a graphic
calculator which could be used for teaching purposes in order to enhance students education could be
a potential gap in the market to be filled in.
As the result, the data of graphical calculator has been focused in order to set up the user need of it.
A graph of this is shown in appendix 3.
Graphing Calculators Market Competition Analysis
A graphing calculator is a device that can perform complex mathematical operations and plot
functions on graphs. It can also analyse functions by finding various descriptive elements like
maximums, zeros and poles. Graphing calculators are primarily used by students, pupils, educators
and STEM businesses.
The market for graphing calculators is essentially an oligopoly dominated by Texas
Instruments. ‘’ With its strong patent protection and clear marketing focus on educators and school
administrators, Texas Instruments has successfully built strong barriers to entry in the
industry.’’(Banerjee) According to market research by professional firms, TI controls approximately
80% of the US market and as much as 93% of the world market. This lack of competition is
primarily due to TI’s initial advantage in inventing the pocket calculator. The technology allowed the
firm to formulate extensive copyright documentation relevant to this day. Additionally, TI
established control over educational materials and as a result exam regulations for the SAT, PSAT,
ACT, AP, and IB are tailored to TI products. ‘’ For more than 15 years, Texas Instruments has
worked closely with educators (middle/high school teachers) and administrators to develop student-
10. focused curricular and supplemental classroom materials, and it supports professional development
organizations for the appropriate use of educational technology. Thanks to Texas Instruments’ efforts
in this realm, most teachers specifically request students purchase a Texas Instruments calculator for
algebra, calculus, and statistics classes—even the SAT.‘’(Banerjee)
Although the volume of TI sales remains high, the future outlook for their products is uncertain. The
software and hardware for the highly popular TI-84 were developed in 2004 and have not evolved
much since. Even the new TI-Nspire that can run spreadsheets and take notes but it is nevertheless
only a cosmetic upgrade. The upside for TI is that the cost of production is only 25% of the market
price compared to an iPhone where that cost is around 50%. Overall in order for their calculators to
remain competitive there has to a significant conceptual and scientific shift. The average price for a
TI-84 is between 100-150USD depending on specifications. A TI-Nspire costs between 135-
150USD. Versions like the TI-84 Plus and Silver edition are not much different in terms of functions.
TI-84 CE has a colour display.
The primary target customers for TI are school pupils, engineers, scientists, researchers, teachers,
and doctors. University students in the US are another major consumer segment.
Texas Instruments is a major electronics corporation and “TI's calculator business has generally
accounted for about 5% of TI's annual revenue and profit. The unit had a profit of $208 million on
revenue of $526 million in 2007 -- the last year in which the semiconductor giant broke out results
for its education business. (Since 2008, the results have been folded into a larger
segment.)”(Banerjee)
Two other major players on the graphing calculator market are Casio Computer Co. and Hewlett
Packard. Casio comes second after TI with their main unit being Casio FX 9750 selling for around
50-70 USD. Although their price is more appealing the company lags behind in marketing and
consumer lobbying focusing more on scientific calculators. The target market for the scientific
calculators are University students throughout the UK, Europe and Asia.
‘’HP has a less than 5% stake in the graphing calculator market, according to NPD Market Research,
and focuses primarily on college and professional users.’’(Banerjee) The most popular type of
graphing calculator is the HP-50G which costs between 80 and 135USD. HP have also recently
released an iPhone app for 30USD which is not relevant to usage on exams or tests but may assist
students and professionals with the same mathematical operations.
11. The Gabor Nagy Company have also released a graphing calculator app for Apple products that sold
more than 45,000 copies for 0.99 USD. A free version was also downloaded by 1.2 million users and
the firm made profits from ads.
Patents, copyright and legislature relating to touch screen sliding calculators
The following section analyses the patents and legislation that are related to our graphing
calculator design.
Patents
The following is a list of possible patents that our design might breach. Although there have been no
consultations with legal counsel at this stage, a technical opinion is provided in the concept designs
explaining why our product is not in breach of copyright law.
Casio:
United States Patent 4558427
‘’A sheet-like compact electronic device includes an electronic parts assembly in which a
semiconductor integrated circuit chip, a display element and a dry cell are arranged on a sheet-like
board. The electronic parts assembly is flexible and is sandwiched between a sheet-like upper cover
and a sheet-like lower cover. The upper cover is flexible and has a display window, and the lower
cover is also flexible and has a flat lower surface.’’
US Patent 5739823
‘’ A graph display device which includes an expression input section for inputting functional
expression data, an expression colour setting for setting a display colour for the functional expression
data input by the expression input section, and an expression display section for displaying the input
functional expression data in the display colour set by the expression colour setting section. A graph
producing section produces a graph for the functional expression data input by the expression input
section based on the input functional expression data, and a graph display section display the graph
produced by the graph producing section in the same display colour as that set for the functional
expression data.’’
US Patent 6549923
‘’Differentiation learning aiding apparatus and storage medium’’
12. Therefore, since a graph of a predetermined function, its first and second derivatives are displayed,
the learner can get a higher learning effect. Especially, when the learner learns a complex function,
the leaner can easily learn, utilizing the graph, without drawing the graph by hand which is a large
load on the learner.
Texas Instruments:
US Patent 5139423
‘’ An electronic teaching device (10) provides several mathematical activities including Place Value,
Trade, Target, Solve It, Word Problems, Estimate, Select and Calculator. The Place Value activity
enhances the understanding of numbers by pictorially displaying the place values. The Trade activity
enhances the understanding of addition and subtraction by allowing the user to trade between the
ones' place value and the tens' place value to properly perform a mathematical operation. The Target
activity emphasizes logical reasoning and problem solving. The Solve It activity uses the place-value
system to develop logical reasoning. The Word Problems activity tests the user's knowledge of basic
mathematical terms and facts. The Estimate activity develops the ability to estimate answers to
problems. The Select activity allows the user to recognize basic math operations.’’
LG Optimus Slider VM701:
8184571 7471622 7546511 8332719 6826408 7203506 7215653 7898952 8189556 7653027
7917094 8027306 6349224 6094427 6898743 7237179 7127661 7636878 7266752 7712012
7499430 7349373 274937 7623503 7532887 7609711 6332209 6862706 7487431 8423049 8452345
8392099 8447364 8477112 8478351 8504080 8549426 8600444 8427432 8531420 8581877
8629844 8593415 8606330 8654091 8571521 8654084
.
Product Differentiation
As shown above, the competition in the graphing calculator market is fierce and monumental.
Therefore it is critical to differentiate the graphing calculator from existing models.
In order for the designed product to stand out from the competition there has to be clear product
differentiation.
There are several methods of differentiating a graphing calculator. First of all the user interface can
be completely different in a physical sense. With the influx of digital touchscreens into
communication electronics it is only reasonable and progressive to incorporate a more user-friendly
13. screen into graphing calculators. Additionally, more buttons have to be present to decrease the
amount of time wasted in switching between function classifications like alpha and shift. Working at
a desk often requires the calculator to be compact and not too clumsy to handle. On the other hand
the consumer has to be able to see clearly the numbers and functions that he/she is operating.
Product differentiation can also be in the form of aesthetic characteristics. Edges have to be smooth
and the device has to be comfortably held in a human hand. Traits like color and texture may seem
trivial in a practical sense, however, they play a significant role in showing potential customers that
the product is different. Color may encourage attraction through curiosity due to the fact that buyers
will likely consider numerous options before making a decision and the initial attention is key.
Overall product differentiation based on extensive market and user need research is a core aspect in
creating a first draft design.
First Draft Design Proposal
From the market research that has been carried out previously, it is evident that only a few large
brands are competing when it comes to calculator products.
Investigation of competitions products and comparison.
Calculator Design Parameters
Casio Graphic FX-9750GII
Display: 1,229k dots
Dimensions: 200mm x 93mm x 27mm
Service life: 5-10 yrs
Weight: 230g
Price: £150
Display: 8 line by 16 character display
Dimensions: 3.47x0.98.7.24 in
Service Life: 5-10 yrs
Weight: 8.8 oz
14. HP Graphing 50g
Price: £100
Texas Graphic TI-84+
Display: 8-line by 16 character display
Dimensions: 185mm x 90mm x 25mm
Service life: Approx. 5-10 yrs
Weight: 250g
Price: £100-250
Users are generally satisfied with the calculators they are using, however they are also wishing for
some improvements, namely a large display size and easier user interface.
These facts led us to do a modification of the graphing calculator. The calculator is aimed to be used
as a learning tool in classrooms and lectures, as well as a mean of presentation in business meetings,
where numbers and functions will be input and an output, such as graphs or charts, can be produced.
Display Retina display, 250 ppi
Dimensions 160mmx90mmx10mm
Service life 5-10 years
Weight 300g
Price £150 - £300
15. Parametric & Matrix Analysis
In order to create the ideal calculator, a comparison of different types of calculators were made. These
calculators were assessed in terms of performance, functions, price, battery life, and aesthetic appeal.
Explanation of parameters
Performance - the calculator needs to be able to be used by users with ease and comfort, this means
that the calculator has to be able to solve calculations quickly and easy to navigate. Moreover, it needs
to have a high memory saving capability. A calculator that is not able to perform well will not be able
to satisfy its users, therefore this parameter has the highest weightage (x7).
Functions - the calculator’s capabilities of performing basic mathematical, algebraic, calculus,
trigonometry, financial, and statistical functions, as well as producing high-quality graphs. This
parameter is given the second highest weightage (x5), since it is deemed to be the most sought after
property by the users within our target market.
Price - the selling price of the calculator needs to be on par with its overall capabilities and
performance. It also needs to be affordable for our target audience. Users have to be satisfied with the
selling price and the quality of performance the calculator offers. Simultaneously, the selling price also
needs to correlate with its manufacturing cost, so that profit can be gained. Based on these facts, price
is given the third highest weightage (x3).
Power supply - the way the calculator is powered plays an important role. Batteries are normally used
to power a calculator. The battery needs to be able to support the calculator for a long performance
life. A calculator with a short battery life would need to be constantly replaced and cause too much
hassle for its users. Most batteries now are able to support calculator for a fairly long time, and due to
this, the power supply is given the lowest weightage (x1).
16. Aesthetic appeal - a product with an attractive appearance would certainly appeal to the market,
however from the survey, the team concludes that the styling of the product does not play a big role
for users when it comes to choosing a calculator. Another aspect of aesthetic appeal the team
considered was its thinness, a calculator that is not bulky and light would be easily portable.
Nevertheless, most calculators in the market share similar designs and weight, and consequently we
give this parameter the lowest weightage (x1).
Matrix 1
Criteria/Product FX-85GT FX-CG20 HR-8TEC LS-123K TI-34 (MV) TI-84+
Performance (X7) -
DATUM
- - - -
Price (X3) + + + + S
Functions (X5) - - - - S
Power supply (X1) S S S S S
Aesthetic Appeal (X1) S - + + -
∑+ 3 3 4 4 0
∑- 12 13 12 12 8
∑+/- -9 -10 -8 -8 -8
17. Feature fx-9750GII TI-84+ HP 50g
Proposed
Design
Graphing Parametric
Polar
Sequence
Rectangular
Inequality
Zoom trace
Dynamic/Transformation
Conics
Calculating values
Visual highlights on critical
points
Number of graphable
functions 20 10 15
25
Mathematics Table of function values
Fixed decimal option
Scientific notation 10+2 10+2 10+2 10+2
Fraction operations
Complex numbers
Matrices
Differentiation and
Integration
Recall and edit last entry
18. Statistics &
Data Analysis
One- and Two- Variable
Statistics
Median, Quartiles
Combinations, Permutations
Regressions
Histograms, scatter plots,
box & whisker plots
Number of lists 26
Up to
Memory
Up to
Memory
Up to
Memory
List length 999 999 999 999
Probability distribution
Pie chart/bar chart (built in) (add in) (add in) (built in)
Stored column formulas
Named list
Calculus Probability & Cumulative
Differentiation and
Integration
Maximum, Minimum
Trigonometry
Sine, Cosine, Tangent &
Inverses
Hyperbolic functions
Degrees-Radians-Grads
conversions
Deg<>Rad
only
Deg<>Rad
only
Discrete Math Recursive sequences
Science
Degree-Minute-
Second<>Decimal Degree
19. Polar<>Rectangular
Metric conversions (preloaded)
Data collection
Programming Equation solver
Finance Amortization
Interactive TVM Solver
Interest conversion
Annuity due & Begin
Setting
Day/Date calculation
Recall of financial values
Cost/sell/margin
IRR, NPV, PBP, NFV, Cash
flow
Computer
Math
Calculates in Dec, Hex, Oct
& Binary
Logic operations
Display Interface Icon Menu Cursor Cursor
Icon
Menu
Color Monochrome Monochrome Monochrome
65,536
colors
Lines x Characters 8x21 8x16 8x16 8x21
Backlight
Natural display input
Natural display output
20. Language options (add in)
Capture, cut & paste
capabilities
Screen size (pixels) 128x64 96x64 131x80 216x384
Split screen 2 2 2
Scrollable home screen
Memory Available RAM/Flash ROM 62KB 24K/480K 512KB 16MB
Number & constant memory
Prior entry recall
Hardware Protective Slide Case
I/O Port/USB port
connectivity
Power 4 AAA 4 AAA 4 AAA 4 AAA
Battery Life 230 hrs NA NA 250hrs
Auto Power Off
Accessories
Direct Connection to
Projector Unit
(with
adaptor) NA
Instruction Manual
Unit-to-Unit Cable
Computer Link & Software
Data Collection Programs
Exams PSAT/NMSQT* & SAT*
AP*
ACT*
21. Market maps for graphing calculators
Some of the properties above will be plotted in graphs in order to clearly show how our proposed
design competes with other similar calculators on the market. These chosen properties will be
compared against their respective price.
Weight vs. price
Logical Conclusion: It can be seen from this graph that despite the fact that our proposed design is
lighter, it would share the same market price as its competitors. A lighter calculator would be more
expensive to produce, nonetheless thinner and lighter components have now been massively
manufactured, making the production cost low. Therefore, it is possible to achieve the desired selling
price.
Size vs. Price
International
Baccalaureate/Praxis*
Weight
Price
TI-84+
FX-CG20
PROPOSED DESSIGN
HP-50g
22. Logical Conclusion: The graph depicts that our proposed design would be more expensive in
comparison to the other competing products when it comes to size. A smaller-sized calculator would
be more expensive to produce, since smaller and thinner component parts are needed. However as
previously said, thinner and lighter components are now massively manufactured, resulting in a low
production cost. A desired price is therefore achievable.
Service life vs. Price
Price
Performance
TI-84+
FX-CG20
PROPOSED DESSIGN
HP-50g
Price
Service Life
TI-8
FX-CG20
PROPOSED DESSIGN
HP-50g
23. Logical Conclusion: High quality components are needed in order to prolong the service life of the
calculator. A higher manufacturing cost would be needed in order to manufacture them. The graph
shows that our proposed design would have a much higher service life expectancy, thus resulting in a
higher selling price. This would hinder us from achieving the desired selling price.
Product Design Specification
This Design (intent) Additional Notes
Performance Retina Display, approx. 250
ppi
Rechargeable lithium-
polymer battery (≈8hrs
battery life)
Full-screen zoom feature
Computer connectivity for
updates
For the full-screen zoom feature,
existing patents will need to be
research to avoid enfringements
Environmental Recyclable metal and
glass/plastic casing
Operating temperature ≈ 0
to 40 (o
C)
Service Life 5 – 10yrs Replaceable parts such as screens
and buttons will prolong service
life. Protective cases can also be
purchased
Maintenance Hardware: 1yr
manufacturer’s warranty
Software updates available
online
Can be connected to the internet
via computer connection for
regular software updates.
Cost £100 - £200 Provided by schools, universities,
and business, engineering, and
financial firms/companies.
Shipping Available from online stores
(e.g. amazon) and stationary
retailers (e.g. Curry’s,
Staples)
Packaging Cardboard exterior with
polystyrene interior mould
Quantity Batch produced
24. Manufacture
Facility
Existing plant
Size Height ≈ 160mm
Width ≈ 90mm
Depth ≈ 10mm
Thin LCD display has already
been patented. Size depends on
concept designs.
Weight ≈ 300g Weight needs to be comfortable
to hold and easy to carry around.
Aesthetics Modern
Slim
Large Screen
A modern, up to date look will
make the product stand out
against competitors.
Incorporating new technologies
will allow the calculator to be
slim with a large screen
Case Protective hard cases
available
Materials Metals
Glass
plastics
Ergonomics Easy to hold (1 or 2 hands)
Can hold with 4 fingers and
press screen with thumb
Customer Students*
Schools
Professors/teachers
Engineering and Financial
Companies
* students do not necessarily
need to purchase the calculator.
Quality/Reliability High quality Resulting in the high price,
which is shown on the market
map.
Shelf Life Unlimited
Testing Drop test, battery health,
performance test
Safety Shatter Proof Screen
Waterproof*
*waterproof to a certain extent
Patents Graphing calculator with
manual line drawing (TI –
March 2000)
Political/Social
Implications
Increase education standards
of the country, e.g.
mathematical capability.
Disposal The plastic, glass and metal
casings can be recycled.
The electronics will need to
be disposed.
25. Initial Conceptual Design
The original concept designs have been analysed using the matrix 2 (table 3). They have been
compared against the datum (Casio FX-CG20) which was the best product from our research and our
main competition. Each concept has been analysed in terms of 6 parameters (Ergonomics,
Manufacturing, Practicality, Price, Aesthetics, Performance) each of these parameters has been given
a weighting depending on how important they are to our product. The more important parameters
have a heavier weighting so they have more effect on the outcome of the matrix. The performance of
the calculator has been considered most important to the product therefore has been given the largest
weighting (x5). The second most important to the product is the practicality, if the concept is
impractical and difficult to operate then customers will not buy it, therefore this parameter has been
given a weighting of (x4). The manufacturing parameter considers the difficulty of manufacturing
each concept, the easier to manufacture to better. The ergonomics parameter considers how the user
holds and uses the product, the easier and more comfortable to hold the better the concept – both
ergonomics and manufacturing have a weighting of (x3). As our product will be a top of the range
calculator it will be competing with the higher priced products therefore ours will too be high priced,
for this reason the price estimated for each concept has a weighting of (x2). Although the aesthetics
of a product will impact on sales, it has been considered not as important as the other parameters as it
was found that our user did not largely consider this factor when buying their calculator, therefore
aesthetics has been given a weighting of (x2).
A negative (-) sign means that the concept is weaker in that specific area than the datum, a positive
(+) sign means the concept is stronger in that area than the datum. An ‘S’ signifies the concept is the
same or similar to the datum with respect to the parameter.
26. Refer to appendix 4 for conceptual drawings.
Table 3
Concepts Design Summary
Design 1 – Slide Screen Large screen for viewing graphs,
charts, operations etc.
Electronic slide-up screen prevents
dirt getting into buttons when not in
use - means calculator can be used
without keypad for simple operations
via touch screen
USB port for computer connectivity
(software updates)
LED backlit display
Design 2 – Tablet Button-less device
Very large touchscreen display
Thin design-lightweight
USB port for computer connectivity
Pop-up menus/keypad on screen
Glass display, plastic casing
LCD screen display
Design 3 – Flip-up Screen Flip-up screen offers protection for
screen and keypad when not in use
Large glass screen display (colour)
for graphs, charts, operations etc.
Large buttoned keypad including
scroll and zoom
USB port for computer connectivity
(software updates)
Design 4 – Sliding Keypad Large E-ink screen display for graphs,
charts, operations
General controls on front of screen
(on/off, brightness, zoom, scroll)
27. Large, electronic slide out keypad
(touch screen) for functions, numbers
etc.
Slide-out mechanism means keypad is
protected when not in use
Design 5 – Flexible Wrist Calculator Made from flexible material therefore
can strap on the wrist like a watch
Possibly magnetised connectors
Large, long touch screen display
Pop-up keypad on screen
Extremely light-weight
Only usable when on wrist or on flat
surface
Design 6 – Projection Display Curved triangular prism shape
Small screen display on front
Physical keypad next to screen
Projection lens for large display for
graphs, charts, operations (flat
surface)
USB port for computer connectivity
Matrix 2
Concep
t
Ergonomi
cs
(x3)
Manufacturin
g
(x3)
Practicalit
y
(x4)
Pric
e
(x2)
Aesthetics
(x2)
Performance
(x5)
Tota
l
Design
1
S - - + + S -3
Design
2
S - + - S + +2
Design
3
- S - S - S -9
28. Design
4
S - - S + + 0
Design
5
S - - - + S -7
Design
6
- - - - + S -10
FX-
CG20
DATUM
From the table it is clear that ‘Design 2’ is the strongest concept with a score of ‘+2’. Design 2 was
considered stronger than the datum in terms of practicality; this is because of the button-less aspect
of the design. Touch screen devices are very popular and are very simple to use. The large touch
screen was also the factor giving it the edge of the datum in terms of performance, the touch screen
means that functions can be accessed simply and quickly using pop-up/drop-down menus that are
easy to navigate. Design 2 was also considered better in terms of performance because of the greater
processing speed it would have, this is also why the price was considered better for the datum.
Design 2 also has two ‘negative’ aspects that were considered weaker than the datum. The first is
manufacturing; Design 2 was considered more difficult to manufacture than the datum sure to the
thinness of the device- manufacturing complex circuits and batteries etc. into such a thin space would
require complex manufacturing techniques. Also, Design 2 uses more complicated and modern
technologies than the datum due to its large touch screen LCD display, this also makes it harder to
manufacture. The other ‘negative’ Design 2 achieved was with respect to price, this is a knock on
affect for the difficulty of manufacturing and the high costs of materials such as the LCD display and
thin battery required.
From this analysis, the concepts have been narrowed down to the top three ideas according to matrix:
Design 1 – Slide Screen, Design 2 – Tablet, Design 4 – Sliding Keypad. These designs have been
improved in the areas where they scored a ‘negative’ in the original matrix. From this, three new and
improved designs are derived.
29. Table 4
Concepts Design Changes
Design 1a – Slide Screen Manually operated slide-up
screen – no electronics for
screen mean easier
manufacturing
Screen made touch screen
therefore calculator can be
used for simple operations
without sliding the screen –
practicality increased
Design 2a – Tablet Increase thickness of tablet to
allow for easier manufacturing
when fitting electronics inside
device
Design 4a – Sliding Keypad Keypad no longer
electronically sliding but is
manually pulled out from the
main device – easier
manufacturing and more
practical
30. Matrix 3
From the results of Matrix 3 (above), the decision was made to combine our two best concepts
(Design 2a and Design 4a) as these both scored equally as impressive against the datum. The final
concept chosen is a tablet with a large display screen with a touch screen feature. The screen will
have pop-up menus and settings. The additional feature of the tablet is a slide-out keypad (taken
from Design 4a) this maximises screen space for displaying operations and graphs/charts etc. The
sliding screen will manually pull out when needed and is button-less, with the pad also having a
touch screen feature. The touchscreen feature on the main tablet allows the calculator to be used for
simple calculations when the keypad is not needed. The tablet has a USB port for computer
connectivity and battery charging and a 3.5mm stereo headphone mini-jack – for an audio
explanation feature.
Material Choice
Retina display
Built-in lithium-polymer battery
Aluminium back-plate
Stainless steel enclosure
Glass touch screen
Plastic casing
Concep
t
Ergonomi
cs
(x3)
Manufacturin
g
(x3)
Practicalit
y
(x4)
Pric
e
(x2)
Aesthetics
(x2)
Performance
(x5)
Tota
l
Design
1a
S S S + + S +4
Design
2a
S S + - S + +7
Design
4a
S S S S + + +7
FX-
CG20
DATUM
31.
32.
33. Reference to Patents
United States Patent 4558427
The graphing calculator specified in the conceptual designs is not in breach of the above
patent due to the fact that the screen is a complete LCD display with the keyboard sliding out and no
keys placed on the front. The technology utilized is of a far greater calibre including a
microprocessor.
US Patent 5739823
Although our calculator includes a colour display as a fundamental element of the design, an
LCD display has very little in common to the pixelated screens incorporated in the patent.
US Patent 6549923
The designed calculator will provide interactive learning methods where the user can drag graphs
and functions around the screen without manually plugging in values.
US Patent 5139423
The designed graphing calculator is not primarily focused on teaching simple functions. The focus is
on complex mathematical analysis using most of the available techniques. The design exceeds the
technology under the patent and is on a completely different technical base.
LG Optimus Slider VM701:
8184571 7471622 7546511 8332719 6826408 7203506 7215653 7898952 8189556 7653027
7917094 8027306 6349224 6094427 6898743 7237179 7127661 7636878 7266752 7712012
7499430 7349373 274937 7623503 7532887 7609711 6332209 6862706 7487431 8423049 8452345
8392099 8447364 8477112 8478351 8504080 8549426 8600444 8427432 8531420 8581877
8629844 8593415 8606330 8654091 8571521 8654084
The above patents are all related to the new LG sliding telephone. Due to the outer mechanical nature
of the device, there might arise potential issues with the sliding keyboard on our calculator. The main
differences to the phone are in the placement of components. The calculator fits the processor,
battery, and wiring to the LCD inside the keyboard sector and then converges with the buttons on the
side for signal distribution. In the phone, however, there are numerous important elements in the part
of the screen. The mechanical sliders are also engineered differently in the calculator to the phone.
34. Project plan
Project Planning
In project planning, work tasks and necessary resources are identified. Schedules, budgets and cost
control system are created and project team and its manager, supervisors, subcontractors and support
staffs are identified. The project team consists of financial resources, human skills and production
resources. The resources are identified for the development of action items and scheduling that can
keep the project moving forward on a consistent basis.
Human Resources Plan
Project Manager
This project involves a calculator through the stages of research & development to
manufacturing stages. A project manager is needed to work with various professionals in
different fields of engineering and manufacturing to go from concept to finished product. The
manager is required with knowledge of laws, requirements and infrastructure, responsible for
implementing each action item or step necessary to complete the project.
Electronic Engineer
The project is aim on developing a brand new calculator which involve the design of the
integrated circuit in the calculator. An engineer with computing knowledge is needed to
design an appropriate IC that can provide the required functions for the calculator.
Mechanical Engineer
Besides the electronic component, the material and outlook design of the calculator is needed
to consider as well. Mechanical engineer has the knowledge of material science that can
identify the required material needed for the production of calculator considering the cost and
sustainability of the materials. Besides, mechanical engineer has the skill of technical
drawing which can design products and create instructions for manufacturing parts by setting
up a computer model.
Contractor
A main contractor is in charged for the manufacture of calculator after the final design of
calculator is done. Usually we are aiming on the factory in China with its low cost and high
productivity.
35. Project Team
The project has involved lots of activities which include marketing, design and
manufacturing. A cross functional team is needed and it is under the direction of the project
manager. The team is to assist and ensure all activities in the project running smoothly.
Financial Advisor
The price of the calculator has to be set carefully to avoid over price or underprice. This
involves the knowledge of marketing and the understanding of financial environment for
different market. Besides, all the budget in different activities in the project has to be under
valid audition. A financial advisor is needed to solve any problem for cost and selling price
for the project based on the marketing research and business administration knowledge.
Technician
During the manufacturing process, technical problem is always happened especially when
making small electronic parts. As the result, a team of technicians is needed to ensure the
whole manufacturing process is running smooth and the product’s quality is satisfied and it
has fulfilled the requirements.
Production Resources Plan
Calculator body materials
The calculator body frame is using Aluminum and Stainless Steel by its high strength and
low cost. It can provide sufficient protection for the integrated circuit in the calculator. The
rest of the calculator body and buttons are using Paperboard and Polystyrene which is a kind
of strong and cheap plastic.
Electronic component
The core parts of the calculator involves integrated circuit and driver transistors in order to
provide mathematics functions.
Resources Summary
Resources Name
Human skills Project Manager
Technicians
Contractors
36. Electrical Engineers
Financial Advisor
Project Team
Mechanical Engineers
Production resources Aluminum
Stainless Steel
Glass
Plastic
Retina Display
Integrated circuit
Driver Transistors
Rechargeable Battery
Paperboard
Polystyrene
Financial resources Budget
In order to effectively develop and realize the final design of the graphing calculator the necessary
tasks are broken down into organized sections. Incorporating the various professionals, resources,
and capital required to effectively produce the product a project plan is presented in the form of a
Gantt chart.
The first stage of the project is about the project team understanding the functions and purposes of
the graphing calculator. The project plan is presented with conceptual engineering drawings by the
assigned project manager with preliminary roles delegated between electrical, mechanical,
manufacturing, and systems engineers. Subcontractors are selected and evaluated based on the firm’s
prior experience on the market.
A preliminary manufacturing plan is drawn up by financial, manufacturing and systems engineering
specialists. Approximate resource cost, capital allocation, human resource allocation and time
constraints are calculated per unit product and over a continuous production scale. A budget is
formulated and signed off by the project manager.
37. Once the manufacturing proposal has been completed, the team moves onto the product development
stage. Work packages are categorized into logistical services, raw materials supply, plant
distribution, machine manufacturing control, packaging, sales and distribution, and market feedback.
A technical PDS is presented by the electrical, mechanical, and systems engineers. All necessary
physical and software tools are acquired.
With the previous stages complete the project team can proceed to producing the prototype of the
graphing calculator. All necessary materials for a batch are ordered allowing time for delivery and
synchronization with machines. The manufacturing chain begins operating.
After several prototypes have been produced they are reviewed by the quality control team
comprised of engineers and market specialists. Extensive product testing is executed by industrial
mathematicians and educators. Further consultations are conducted with representatives of retail
outlets and target consumers.
The project leadership team then evaluates the relevant modifications required in the prototype and
communicates them to the entire team. Manufacturing engineers and technicians adjust the
production chain accordingly. Software, electronics and systems engineers also modify the operating
system if necessary. Production facilities prepare operations for bulk production. The supply chain
managers further negotiate raw materials contracts with contractors and prepare logistics plans for
mass production.
At this stage the company is ready to release the graphing calculator on the worldwide market.
Dozens of batches of calculators are delivered to retail outlets and online market storage facilities.
Logistics managers coordinate with PR officers in the firm to promote the product in a timely
manner. Routine inspections are carried out by the project team and project manager at production
facilities to ensure quality control and further testing. Production rate is regulated according to
volume of sales.
The following tables illustrate the described tasks and resources required for the project.
38.
39.
40.
41. Product Scope Description
The ultimate purpose of the product is to allow the teaching of maths in school/colleges/universities
to become easier and more understandable. Whilst being able to perform complex mathematical
calculations and display them in a way that is easy to understand.
Deliverables
The deliverables for this product include:
Engineering Drawings
Created using CAD
Produced to BS8888 Standard
Drawings for separate parts and an assembly
3D models
Created using 3D printer
1:1 scale
Prototypes
Produced during the manufacturing process
For manual and machine inspection
Reviewed by customer
User Manual
Including instructions on how to use
Complete in a number of languages
Images to aid descriptions
Details of warranty
Packaged with manual and product itself
Product Exclusions
The project exclusions include:
Advertisement
Marketing
Printing of User Manual
Printing of warranty
-All will be sourced from professional companies specialising in these areas respectively.
42. Appendix
Appendix 1
Questionnaire:
What is your occupation?
口Secondary student 口university student 口engineer
口teacher/lecturer 口others (please specify) ____________________
What type of calculator are you currently using?
口graphic calculator 口scientific calculator
口financial calculator 口software calculator
口others (please specify) ____________________
Are you satisfied with the calculator you are currently using? (5 is most satisfied)
1 2 3 4 5
Please rank the properties that are important to you before you buy a calculator (7 most important
1 least important)
Price ___
Display ___
Function ___
Size ___
Aesthetics ___
Battery life ___
Memory capability ___
What improvement would you make on the calculator you are currently using? (additional functions,
size, price, etc)
43. Appendix 2
Graph for question 1
Graph for question 2
Graph for question 3
30
79
7
13
28
What is your occupation?
secondary
university
engineer
teacher/lecturer
others
23
92
8
8
26
What type of calculator are you currently using?
graphical
scientific
finanical
software
others
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
1 2 3 4 5
Satisfaction Ranking with the calculator
currently using (5 is most satisfied)
Others
Software
Finanical
Scientific
Graphical
44. Graph for question 4
Appendix 3
Figure 1-Shows the parameters for the Graphic Calculato with the coresponding datar
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Properties importance (7 most important)
Graphical
Scientific
Finanical
Software
Others
0
2
4
6
8
Graphical
51. References
Analog, Embedded Processing, Semiconductor Company, Texas Instruments (no date). Available at:
http://www.ti.com/ (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
Banerjee (no date). Available at: http://faculty.tuck.dartmouth.edu/images/uploads/faculty/ron-
adner/Texasmini.pdf (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
CALCULATOR RELATED PATENTS (no date). Available at:
http://www.rskey.org/~mwsebastian/patents/patents.htm (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
Calculators – Graphic, scientific and financial calculators | HP® Official Site (no date). Available at:
http://www8.hp.com/us/en/prodserv/calculator.html (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
Graphing, Fraction & Scientific, Financial, Basic, Printing, Calculators | CASIO America, Inc. (no date).
Available at: http://www.casio.com/products/Calculators_%26_Dictionaries/ (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
Products by Texas Instruments - US and Canada (no date). Available at:
http://education.ti.com/en/us/products (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
(no date a). Available at: http://www.environmentteam.com/concept/wp-
content/uploads/2010/09/holographic-projector-phone.jpg (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
(no date b). Available at: http://assets.hardwaresphere.com/uploads/2010/01/visual-sound-mobile-phone-
concept-design.jpg (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
(no date c). Available at: http://www.tuvie.com/wp-content/uploads/sony-ericsson-xperia-x1-slider-
phone2.jpg (Accessed: 6 March 2015).
