The brief for this project was to come up with a way to encourage more people to engage with the Science Museum's Computer Gallery. It appeared that due to a number of factors, the Science museum was going through a process of increased commercialisation. Rather than baulk at this, I chose to exploit it.

 
 
  The Cut-out Computer is a concept for a product, to be sold at the museum. It is a piece of 3D information graphics which you assemble yourself. The invisible processes within the computer are brought to life with animated electroluminescent print.  
  An early sketch model of a paper "RAM stick"  
  Being primarily an educational tool, the cut-out computer needed to communicate complex information simply. A simplified yet detailed illustration of a computer's workings adds appropriate depth but exploits the non-threatening properties of paper. Whilst the use of technical terminolgy was unavoidable, the graphics break down the processes and components in to easyily digested elements.  
  Once assembled, the cut-out computer contains all the information in one compact and tactile package. The old adage of "if I try it I'll remember" seemed appropriate. Users have to place the major components correctly in order for the system to work.  
  Fully assembled, the system uses a connected paper keyboard and monitor with electroluminescent display to navigate through the various processes happening inside a computer.  
  The network of screen-printed lights describe the essential, yet invisible processes.