Modularity Investigation - Frame Arms #014
Frame Arms is a modular system, at the base of which is a set of articulating joints, pegs, and holes. Think LEGO’s designed to make wicked looking robots. In the style of LEGO’s one can construct the pre-calculated design according to a long instructional, OR one can simply dive into the ocean of modularity and be swept out by the possible permutations.
Many have stated that first, they follow the instructions until complete, and then take it apart and do something creative. But I, for one, am an advocate of the reverse order. Thus ones opinion of a modular piece is unclouded by it’s “intended” use.
When creating with no bias, using the Frame Arms #014 components, one is almost immediately confronted by modularity which should have been. A peg is too big or too small to fit into a standardized hole. A certian connection type is unique, not accepting a peg, and thus one cannot attach with impunity.
Alas one can rationalize these not-so-modular design elements as, perhaps, artistic choices, which funnel the creator down a path leading to a wicked robot.
This begs the question : Where should the line between complete modularity and a fixed outcome be? If every piece of the Frame Arms was designed to be ultra-modular would wicked robots still be the outcome? Can an aesthetic be a part of a ultra-modular system?
Posted by newamericanpublicart- 2 months ago
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