Study Task 6 - Prototypes

Prototypes 

Deconstructed Letterforms

The tool uses elements of typefaces which are then rearranged to create new letterforms. Uppercase letterforms would be used as these have a more consistent and simplified form when compared with lowercase letterforms. A range of typefaces, both serif and sans serif, would be used from a variety of type classifications. These would also be popular and recognisable typefaces. The letterforms are broken down into their most distinctive forms and aim to retain the main characteristics of the letterforms. Using multiple typefaces would allow for the combination of type styles. The pieces would be cut from wood or perspex allowing the user to rearrange the forms easily.
One typeface could be used for a set in which each of the letters of the alphabet are broken down. Sets could then be combined to create further experimentation.

Analysis against the brief  

The format of physical blocks brings a three dimensionality to the tool, which encourages engagement and add a playful element to the creation of letterforms. The use of preexisting elements in a new way creates original outcomes. The use of different parts of a letter will increase visual understanding of the make up of letterforms for students, whilst allowing proffessionals to use elements in a different way. Multiple letterforms are able to be created, however the format possibly lacks the structure needed to create a consistent looking alphabet as Cut up letterforms to be rearranged into new letterforms

Take uppercase letterforms from different typefaces – have similar forms and structures – simplified and consistent structure-   more consistent than lowercase letterforms – break up letterforms into their main component forms – break them up into their distinctive components – retain features of the original forms within the new pieces – would break up clearly distinctive typefaces with different characteristics and type classifications – ability to combine type styles of combine within the same type style – create movable blocks

Modular Grid Systems 

The grid systems would be used to create modular typography form geometric shapes.  Each shape is rotated around a point, meaning they are repeated four times within a square to create a ‘module’. The ‘module’ is then repeated to create the whole grid system. Rotating the shapes in this way allows for more options when using the grids. It also allows for the modules to flow between each other much better making them more usable in all directions.By overlapping the shapes this also creates new shapes giving more options to play with. All shapes fit within a square allowing for easy modular construction. A variety of grid systems would be created by using different modular forms. 

Analysis against the brief 

The format of a sketchbook is appropriate for all levels of professionalism as it is  something designers already work with making it understood and easy to use .
A sketchbook allows for modification and adaptation of type, whilst encouraging hand rendered sketching rather than a focus on the finished product, allowing for greater experimentation. The traditional approach to design increases fundamental skills in design allowing better knowledge of the make up and forms of letters.
The layered combination of shapes means there is a greater range of possibilities, allowing for more original outcomes. 

Although the tool uses a structured grid system the variety of possible outcomes means they are flexible enough to be used in an experimental way. A full alphabet could be constructed out of each of the grids, the consistency of which would be determined by the level of restriction used between elements.
Compiling the grids into a book means that a large amount of grids can be put into a small space, making it a practical and reliable format. The use of simple geometric shapes as a basis for the designs means there is a greater variety of options for the construction of letterforms, which can be as simple or elaborate as wanted.

Modular playing cards 

The set of playing cards would be used to create modular typography through the arrangement of geometric shapes. The modular playing card sets would consist of similar types of shapes e.g. all square or shapes that would be commonly used together. A set of fifty cards would have at least five different shapes to use with multiples of each, allowing for the construction of a letterform from each individual shape. The format is durable and easily understood making it simple to use for a variety of people. Combining sets of different shapes would allow for even more variations to be created. These could be colour coded to help distinguish which cards are from which set.   

Analysis against the brief 

The format means the cards can be arranged physically allowing for easier visualisation of ideas and adaptation of elements. By using simple geometric shapes as a basis for the designs means there is a greater variety of options for the construction of letterforms.

The easily movable pieces would encourage interaction, quick adaptation and experimentation. The modular format allows for the ability to create consistency across letterforms. The use of simple shapes with multiples of each means the whole alphabet could be created from each individual shape aswell as in combination. A playing card format is compact and would allow a large amount of cards to be stored in a small box, making it portable and easy to use in a variety of places. The format is clean and simple making it appropriate for students and professionals as an alternative tool.