Word Clock

A clock that tells the time by writing out the words from a matrix

A 3d printed clock, lit by a 16x16 LED light matrix driven by a Raspberry PI

A 3d printed clock that shows the time using words rather than numbers.

The clock is powered by a Raspberry PI computer and a LED matrix of lights to light up the display. The clock can show the time and optionally a smart weather display or some cosmetic light patterns.

All the 3d models and software are available as open source so you can build your own or build upon the platform to add additional features.

Overall Description

Design Challenges

This was my first ever Maker project so everything from the 3d printing to the use of a raspberry PI was new to me!

Every step was full of interesting shall challenges including,

• Designing the main clock face
• The software to drive the clock
• Handling not being on WiFi

Learnings

Components

• Word Clock Parts List ✅
• Word Clock Pieces ✅

Build Process

• Prepare your Raspberry PI ✅
• Image your PI
• Boot your PI
• Boot into Desktop

• Configure your Raspberry PI ✅
• Download the Source Code
• Reboot the PI
• Validation and Troubleshooting

• Printing the clock parts ✅

• Assembling the parts
• Assembling the 3d Printed Pieces ✅
• (optional) Attaching the Real Time Clock ✅
• (optional) Mounting the Raspberry PI Camera ✅
• Mounting the Raspberry PI main board ✅
• Wiring up your Raspberry PI ✅

• Making Configuration Changes 🟨
• Web Interface
• Buttons
• Weather configuration
• New clock modes