In the vast expanse of the universe, where celestial bodies dance in intricate harmony, lies the Triangulum constellation, a celestial triangle captivating the imaginations of stargazers. Inspired by this cosmic marvel, Instructables user saulemmetquinn embarked on a remarkable journey to create a 3D-printed clock that not only tells time but also captures the essence of the Triangulum constellation.
The Triangulum Clock: A Celestial Timepiece
The Triangulum clock is a stunning fusion of art and engineering, meticulously designed to reflect the celestial beauty of its namesake constellation. With its triangular shape and intricate gears, this clock is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of its maker.
Gears in Motion: The Mechanics of Time
At the heart of the Triangulum clock lies a symphony of gears, each meticulously designed and crafted to orchestrate the seamless movement of time. A spinning stepper motor, completing one rotation every 15 seconds, sets the stage for the intricate dance of gears. Reduction gears, with a ratio of 1:43200, gracefully slow down the motor’s rotation, ensuring the clock’s steady and accurate progression through the hours.
Moon Phase Tracking: A Celestial Connection
Beyond telling time, the Triangulum clock also keeps track of the ever-changing moon phases. An additional set of gears, with a ratio of 99:2924, diligently follows the lunar cycle, displaying the current moon phase with precision.
Assembly and Electronics: Bringing the Clock to Life
Once each part was meticulously 3D-printed, Saul embarked on the delicate task of assembling the clock by hand. With patience and precision, he carefully fitted each gear and component into its designated place, ensuring the clock’s flawless operation.
To bring the clock to life, Saul integrated an iRobota Nano Every, a ULN2003 stepper motor driver, and a 5V 28BYJ-48 motor onto an inner panel. These electronic components, working in harmony, orchestrate the clock’s movement and display.
Holo Clock Firmware: The Brain Behind the Beauty
The Triangulum clock is powered by the Holo Clock firmware, a sophisticated software program that seamlessly manages the clock’s operation. This firmware ensures that the gears rotate at the correct speed, the time is accurately displayed, and the moon phase is precisely tracked.
Bonus: The Cosmos at Your Fingertips
The Triangulum clock is not merely a timepiece; it’s an invitation to explore the wonders of the cosmos. As you gaze upon its triangular form and intricate gears, let your imagination soar beyond the confines of time and space. Imagine yourself among the stars, tracing the constellations and marveling at the vastness of the universe.
The Triangulum clock serves as a constant reminder of our place in the universe, a reminder that we are part of something far grander than ourselves. It is a testament to human ingenuity and our insatiable desire to understand and appreciate the beauty of the cosmos.
For more details on the Triangulum clock, including step-by-step instructions on how to build your own, visit Saul’s write-up on Instructables.
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