Fun with Fonts: Algorithmic Typography

Abstract

Over the past decade, we have designed six typefaces based on mathematical theorems and open problems, specifically computational geometry. These typefaces expose the general public in a unique way to intriguing results and hard problems in hinged dissections, geometric tours, origami design, computer-aided glass design, physical simulation, and protein folding. In particular, most of these typefaces include puzzle fonts, where reading the intended message requires solving a series of puzzles which illustrate the challenge of the underlying algorithmic problem.

14 pages, 12 figures. Revised paper with new glass cane font. Original version in Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Fun with Algorithms