Assignment 7: Metaphor and Interface

Choose an interface for a hardware device, such as an appliance, vehicle, tool or other reasonably complex device (not a piece of software running on a computer, phone, etc.). Traditional screen-based graphical user interfaces are not acceptable as topics. Re-design the interface using a strong metaphor (or metaphors.) The metaphor should be new, unconventional but still help explain and inform the interface. It's a good idea to run your proposed idea by me first.

Create a 1-page (no title page, etc), landscape-format document depicting the interface. This is not a visual design exercise, but an exercise in communicating a concept. You may use sketches, diagrams, precedent image or text, in any combination. The goal is to communicate your concept clearly. Include a title, and your name. Make sure your document supports and explains your concept.

Note your metaphor in the notation used by George Lakoff, that is: ARGUMENT IS WAR

Simply creating new visual elements such as icons is not acceptable.

Keep in mind

• Interface is the key here - not appearance.
• Include as many entailments as possible - strong metaphors have multiple entailments.
• Refer back to the metaphor and user interface reading for background on interface metaphors. If "DATA is a DOCUMENT" your concept will be "YOUR DEVICE is SOMETHING ORIGINAL YOU CHOOSE"
• Your work must be original, and of your own making. Use of AI or generative machine learning tools is not permitted for this assignment. Ask if you are unsure.
• If you use precedent, or incorporate the work of others in your concept, cite your sources.