• MATERIALS USED

    Ayhilann Le Creurer • 05/27/2025 at 09:59 • 0 comments

    To build our Project O’clock, we selected simple, accessible, and efficient components, while ensuring precision and compatibility between each element.

    • Arduino Uno Board:
      This is the core of the project. It controls the motors and runs the time display program. Both official and compatible versions work perfectly.

    • 28BYJ-48 Stepper Motors + ULN2003 Drivers (x3):
      Each motor is dedicated to one clock hand (hours, minutes, seconds). Their moderate torque and precision make them ideal for a clock mechanism.

    • 6V – 2400 mAh Ni-MH Rechargeable Battery:
      It powers the entire system. Its autonomy is sufficient for several hours of continuous operation. This type of battery is stable and safe for embedded electronics.

    • Laser-cut Agglomerated Wood Gears:
      To avoid connecting the motors directly to the hands, we printed gears on laser-cut agglomerated wood. This allows smooth motion transmission and prevents premature wear of components.

    • 5 mm MDF Frame:
      The MDF structure supports the entire clock. It is rigid, easy to laser-cut, and strong enough to hold the motors and axles in place.

    • Male-to-Female Dupont Wires:
      Essential for clean and modular connections between the motors, drivers, and the Arduino.

  • ARDUCLOCK

    Ayhilann Le Creurer • 05/27/2025 at 09:46 • 0 comments

    In this first session, we began by brainstorming together to define the main features of our clock. We analyzed the different types of mechanism possible and discussed the components required, such as motors, displays (analog or digital), and structural elements. Once we had validated our idea, we set about realizing it by selecting the first components and drawing up an initial assembly diagram. 

    In the second session, we tested the technical feasibility of the project by switching to Arduino programming. The aim was to check whether our system could function correctly by controlling the needle's movements via a microcontroller. At first, we used servo-motors, but after several tests, we opted for stepper motors for better precision and synchronization. This step enabled us to identify certain adjustments to be made to optimize clock operation.

    From the third session until today, we have focused on the actual construction of the project and the execution of the program. However, we encountered a technical issue: we initially connected the clock hands directly to the motors. This setup does not allow the system to function properly. Therefore, we need to add an intermediate mechanism to ensure smoother and more accurate movement of the clock hands.

    During the final session, we successfully finalized the code and corrected the previously identified issue. Instead of connecting the motors directly to the clock hands, we 3D-printed gears to introduce an intermediate mechanism. This allows for smoother and more precise movement, while also protecting the components and improving the overall accuracy of the clock.