2025 One Hertz Challenge: Maintain the Rhythm (Limited to 60 Beats Per Minute)
In the realm of innovative timekeeping, Johnowhitaker's electromechanical water-dropping clock stands out as a unique case in electromechanical microfluidics. This intriguing project, which provides a source code for users to build their own version, takes a different approach from traditional water-based timekeeping methods.
The clock's design is based on the predictable flow of water as an incompressible fluid. A solenoid is used to briefly open a water-filled syringe, allowing a single drop to fall. This simple yet effective mechanism produces a satisfying audio indication as the drop falls into a waiting beaker. For added visual flair, Johnowhitaker added food coloring to the dripping water.
The first few drops hitting the beaker create a visually appealing lava lamp-esque cloud, adding to the clock's charm. The operation of the clock is influenced by these predictable patterns of water flow.
The mention of microfluidics projects suggests potential related projects for exploration. Microchannel cooling in semiconductor devices, microfluidic extrusion fabrication, and hydro-mechanical clock hacks provide good parallels to Johnowhitaker’s clock by utilizing the manipulation of liquid flows at small scales to control timing or mechanical operations precisely.
While direct examples of electromechanical water-dropping clocks are rare, comparable projects can be found in clock hack communities that explore water flow or incompressible fluid dynamics for timing functions.
Johnowhitaker's clock is controlled by a Raspberry Pi Pico and a motor driver board, demonstrating the integration of modern technology with a timekeeping method that has been used for thousands of years. The history of timekeeping includes the use of water for thousands of years, such as dripping stone pots in Ancient Egypt and Greco-Roman Clepsydrae.
Commenters on Johnowhitaker's project have proposed ideas for future modifications, including a 1/60 Hz beaker changer and a 1/600 Hz spill cleaner. The 2025 One Hertz Challenge is still open for entries, inviting creators to push the boundaries of timekeeping even further.
In conclusion, Johnowhitaker's electromechanical water-dropping clock is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern timekeeping methods, offering a unique approach to precision timing and mechanical operations.
- The Raspberry Pi Pico and motor driver board used in Johnowhitaker's clock demonstrate how modern gadgets like the Raspberry Pi can intertwine with traditional technology, such as water-based timekeeping methods.
- In the realm of hacked hydro-mechanical clocks, Johnowhitaker's electromechanical water-dropping clock presents a distinct case, showcasing the similarities between this project and other gadgets that utilize the manipulation of small-scale liquid flows for precise timing or mechanical operations, such as microchannel cooling in semiconductor devices and microfluidic extrusion fabrication.
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