For this project, I have been working on a growing concern I first had when working on this project. The major difference between the machines I am drawing influence from and the code I am working on now is that they are physical and three dimensional objects while my code is a virtual simulator. In fewer words, I am trying to translate a very physical interaction into a virtual one. Technically, I can recreate the interaction, however there is a certain quality that is lost. It is not as special if a machine has the capability to turn itself off. Part of the appeal of the useless box is it performs a task that is not expected. On the other hand, machines are expected to have the type of power to control itself. To me, the solution for this problem is to exaggerate and really draw out the physical aspects of this code. I have been working on putting together an interface that appears to be more material than electronic.
On a side note, this project has also taught me that there is a difference between a worthless task, and an impossible one. An impossible task only installs and perpetuates a sense of failure with the user. However, a worthless task, such as this, opens up a whole existential curiosity that draws users in.
