[Hans Andersson] has been creating an amazing twist timer for more than a decade. We are happy to share with readers his latest mechanical clock device, time twist 5.
Compared with the previous LEGO based clock, the fifth edition of twister uses 3D printed clips, which undoubtedly provides greater flexibility in aesthetics and function. Each number is a mechanical display, five layers vertical and three sections horizontal, with three unique faces. Each layer of each display can be rotated individually by servo, and this arrangement allows any number between 0 and 9 to be displayed. The whole performance is controlled by Arduino mega and ds3231 real-time clock.
It’s pleasant enough to watch these upright prisms rotate into clear 15 segment numbers, but the mechanical sound produced by the movement of this kind of clock can be said to be more satisfactory. Check out the video below and watch (and listen) for yourself. If you want to build one yourself, all the details are here.
Our last interview [Hans Andersson] and his first clock were in November 2011. Since then, we have encountered many impressive mechanical clocks, such as this seven section work of art. We were deeply impressed by the excellent workmanship of these mechanical clocks. We were very encouraged to see our og watchmaker return to the saddle again.