Hi Steve,
My ideas for an improved electromagnetic kicking circuit have been evolving.
The initial objectives are to provide more accurate control of amplitude and timing of the EM pulses, together with reduced power consumption compared to use of the Chinese modules.
With the benefit of being microcontroller-based, an elaborated version could also measure and correct timing by changing the amplitude of the pendulum swings
- in theory, the long-term accuracy could then be as good as that of the quartz crystal in the circuit.
Apart from design and construction of the electronics, this involves changes to the clock base such that the custom coil and PCB together with different batteries can fit within the base.
I am also thinking that a version of the clock made from a hybrid of wood and 3D printed components would be good.
If the base and supporting framework were to be made in wood (i.e., all parts seen in orangy-brown plastic) were to be made in wood, the clock would look much better!
It is completely reasonable and good to 3D print all the gears, but the base and vertical supports, being in plastic, detracts from the overall appearance.
Using the step file of the base which you kindly provided, I have produced a variant that could be easily routed out of wood, refer graphic.
If desired, there could be a slope down towards the front - but that would complicate construction.
Other variants are also possible such as a simple square/ rectangular or a hexagonal or octagonal base.
Arguably, the simpler the base, the better from the aesthetic perspective of the design.
A simple rectangle of polished wood may be the best?!
My thinking is that the top surface of the base should be flat such that it is not obvious that the pendulum is traversing over a kicking device!
I should expect that the EM signal is able to pass through a thin thickness of wood.
In any event, the top surface can best be flat whether or not it may be found that there needs to be a hole.
The clock framework is best also made in wood.
Only simple 2D curves are involved which can be easily routed by hand using a template.
There is now the challenge of how to attach the framework to the wooden base?!
Rather than having to cut rectangular holes (apparently also having the complication of sloping sides!) at an angle in the base, it would seem better to use simple angled circular holes.
I should appreciate if you could provide the step files of the support framework parts - I should then be able to modify the ends where the verticals attach to the base and also cut holes into the base itself.
Much better would be if you could make available the overall Fusion 360 model - the inter-relationships and accurate dimensioning between the parts could then be checked.
Furthermore, it will then be possible to visualise how the overall clock looks with the various alternative shapes of base.
If you prefer, we could communicate directly. What is your email address?
Best Regards,
Douglas