The 'Digimech Clock' is a new design by UK designer Duncan Schotton that combines the concept of a mechanical clock and a digital display. The clock uses vertical sliders operated by electrical motors and counter-weight.
In perpetual motion, these bugs cause a beautiful game embodying the passage of time. Driven by servos controlled by a PIC16F628 micro-controller, the numeral bars drop down due to gravity when the final digits have been displayed.
Implications - The 'Digimech Clock' has its numbers printed on vertical sliders and they only reveal themselves when perfectly synchronized with the display box. When they're not perfectly aligned, they look like unrelated alien forms. Click on the image to view the short film.
Digital Mechanical Clocks
Duncan Schotton Digimech Clock
Trend Themes
1. Mechanical-digital Hybrid Clocks - Combining the familiarity of analog mechanisms and the convenience of digital displays to provide an innovative user experience.
2. Creative Timekeeping Devices - Using unique and artistic designs to stand out in a competitive market and cater to a niche audience.
3. Automated Clock Mechanisms - Exploring the use of modern technology to automate traditional clock mechanisms and improve accuracy and performance.
Industry Implications
1. Home Decor - Introducing designer timepieces to the home decor market to provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
2. Consumer Electronics - Incorporating mechanical and digital features into consumer electronics to create innovative products and differentiate from competitors.
3. Watch Making - Incorporating automated mechanisms to improve the accuracy and performance of timepieces and cater to a tech-savvy audience.