14 DAY TRIAL // Reading a clock isn't that hard to learn. In fact, it shouldn't take more than a minute or so for someone to absorb the explanation. Still, there's a certain charm in novelty, and that's what Instructables contributor drhatch is betting on.
We've seen more than our fair share of unusual time pieces, but most of them either displayed time in numbers or by using the standard set of hands.
Some had extra mini-clocks, so to speak, which showed the seconds and maybe spatial coordinates in relation to the Earth's longitude and latitude. Others still had a small circle for a chronometer or timer, or for counting the days of a year.
The new clock invented by drhatch is different from them all. It's not nearly as sophisticated, but its approach to showing the time is unique.
The word clock spells out the time for you
The word clock is a new project on Instructables website. Its inventor, one drhatch, has put together a guide that you can use to create it, in eight steps.
But first you might ask what the clock does that's so unusual. As we said before, it spells time for you. In words and letters. The words most likely to be used in telling someone the time are written on the face of the clock.
The letters will be backlit when appropriate. Controlled by a small circuit board in the back, the illumination will always be there to grant clarity.
The words have their own light wells, we suppose you could say, its own piece, although a single, whole frame holds them all together.
A CAD file created using Autodesk 123D Design is downloadable via the website. There are separate files for different color sections.
Drhatch used the bottom of the PCB of a Christmas card and printed it with silkscreen. He put it on the back, where it would be visible in case you have to open the clock for whatever reason.
He also created a front panel word mask that lights up the words “Family is four ever” at four o’clock each day. That was a personal touch, however. The instructions included in the e-mailed guide will provide the step-by-step process but let you decide for yourself what you should personalize.
If you're familiar with CAD design programs, you can of course modify the 3D model of the clock as well.
Retail availability
Since this is a free project, the word clock will never make it to retail. Still, the guide, at least, will be provided to those who feel the urge to use their 3D printer for something new. It also means that no expenses are involved, save the cost of the filament (one assumes you already own the 3D printer).
