Knowthing: A Set of Measuring Tools (Part 2)
Speculative Objects, Design Research
In response to Ruler Collection (part 1), units of time, temperature, volume and mass have been replaced with distance on these objects to demonstrate the arbitrary nature of the measuring system. A conversion chart and recipe for these tools are also provided with the set.
Recontextualising Process of Objects
A variety of techniques have been tested to indicate which were the most appropriate and effective technique for the object material to remove existing measurement graphics and reapply the new metric details. The following photos document the most effective techniques used.
Measuring spoon: The existing graphics were removed with sandpaper and replaced using tattoo paper. It is measured using the spoon's diameter
Timer: Time was converted from minutes/seconds to mm/cm by measuring the distance between the two lines of one minute.
Graphics were removed with sand paper and replaced using tattoo paper.
Kitchen Scale: To convert grams/pounds to cm/inches, circle geometry was used to work out the distance between the lines. The existing graphics were easily replaced with a reprint.
Measuring cup: The volume graphics (mL/ cups) were converted by simply measuring the length of the existing details. Graphics were printed backwards on decal paper, transferred on to the glass and set with a few minutes in the microwave.
