Remember the iconic watch worn by Penny, the resourceful niece of Inspector Gadget? It was more than just a timepiece; it was a gadget-packed device that aided her in her adventures. Now, thanks to the ingenuity of Becky Stern, Penny’s watch has been brought to life in a remarkable recreation that blends nostalgia with modern technology.
The Heart of the Watch: iRobota and Edge Impulse
At the core of this recreated watch is an iRobota Nicla Voice board, the brains behind its speech recognition capabilities. Stern utilized Edge Impulse, a user-friendly platform, to train an AI to recognize Penny’s signature voice command, “Come in, Brain!” Once the AI hears this command, the watch screen seamlessly transitions to a new image of Brain, the lovable dog.
Encasing the Technology: 3D Printing and a Touch of Color
To house the watch’s electronic components, Stern employed 3D printing, creating a custom enclosure that resembles Penny’s original watch. Inside this enclosure resides a Nicla Vision board and an Adafruit 1.69″ color IPS TFT screen, responsible for displaying the watch face and Brain’s image. The watch band, too, is 3D-printed, with links cleverly connected using fresh filament, ensuring a secure and flexible fit.
Powering the Watch: A Compact Lithium Battery
A compact lithium battery, neatly tucked within the enclosure, provides the watch with its power. This battery ensures that Penny’s watch can accompany you on your adventures without the need for frequent charging.
A Showcase of Ingenuity: Maker Faire Rome
Becky Stern’s impressive recreation of Penny’s watch, along with her upcoming computer book, will be showcased at Digi-Key’s “Inspector Gadget” display at Maker Faire Rome. This event provides a platform for makers, innovators, and enthusiasts to gather and celebrate creativity and technological advancements.
Bonus: A Touch of Nostalgia and Inspiration
The revival of Penny’s watch is not just a technological feat; it’s a nostalgic journey back to the days when Inspector Gadget and his gadgets captured our imaginations. It serves as a reminder that creativity and innovation can breathe new life into cherished memories, inspiring us to explore the possibilities of blending the past with the present.
Becky Stern’s creation is a testament to the power of nostalgia and the endless possibilities of modern technology. It’s a reminder that our favorite childhood gadgets can be reimagined and brought to life in ways we never thought possible.
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