Patterns & Metaphors
Animal-drawn cart
Template:
A cart consists-minimally of two wheels on a common axle on which a load-bearing platform is supported. The cart is drawn by one or more animals to which it is attached. Movement is normally controlled by a driver on the cart.
Metaphor:
A social innovation may be envisaged based on two parallel cycles operating at the same rate around a common principle (or axis of reference) on which a social platform may be constructed. The cycles are maintained in operation over the terrain as a result of a force exerted on the platform by the controlled application of subjugated instinctual forces. Possible cycles are the work-life cycle and the home-life cycle which are linked. In this instance they are maintained in operation by the instinctual need to pursue satisfiers (typically portrayed in advertising images). If the resulting movement is appropriately controlled the configuration can progress through social space bearing any cultural heritage with it.
[Features] The interrelationship between the cart as a deliberately designed assemblage, the unhuman source of power requiring its own particular form of nourishment, the purposeful human controller, and the load bearing capacity.
[Contrast] Whilst it is highly probable that social vehicles are in operation, they are not seen in their entirety but only as unclearly related elements. There are however a number of mythological references to animal-drawn chariots which may indicate unconscious recognition of the social dimension of such devices.
[Keys] The range of cart and harness designs, and the scope for improvements to any one design. Carts designed for speed versus those designed for heavy loads, and the configurations of animals appropriate to each. Horseless carriages.<
