Counter Clock Project

A unique mechanical digital clock that uses servo motors to physically flip segments, creating a mesmerizing analog-like digital display. Built with ESP-IDF framework, this project combines precise servo control with accurate timekeeping to deliver a distinctive time display experience.

Key innovations:

• Mechanical 7-segment display using 28 micro servos (7 per digit)
• Hybrid digital-analog visual effect
• Silent operation through optimized PWM control
• Energy-efficient design with sleep modes

Hardware Demonstration

View Video Demonstration

I2C Configuration

The system uses two I2C devices:

1. DS1307 Real-Time Clock (Default address 0x68)

   • Provides accurate timekeeping
   • Battery-backed for continuous operation

2. PCA9685 PWM Controllers (Addresses 0x40 and 0x41)

   • Controls 32 servo motors (16 channels per controller)
   • 12-bit resolution for precise angle control
   • 50Hz PWM frequency standard for servos

I2C Troubleshooting Tips:

• Verify connections with i2cdetect tool
• Ensure pull-up resistors (4.7kΩ) are present on SDA/SCL
• Check for address conflicts if adding more devices
• Monitor I2C errors in ESP-IDF logs

Features

• 4-digit display using servo-controlled segments
• Precise timekeeping with DS1307 RTC
• PCA9685 PWM controller for servo management
• Customizable segment angles

Installation

# Clone this repository
git clone --recursive https://github.com/PiyushPatle26/Counter-Clock.git
cd Counter-Clock

# Build and flash
idf.py build
idf.py -p /dev/ttyUSB0 flash monitor

Configuration

• Adjust pulse_0deg and pulse_90deg in final_clock.c for your servo calibration
• Set proper I2C addresses in config.h

Components Used

• ESP32 microcontroller
• 28 servo motors (7 per digit)
• 2x PCA9685 PWM controllers
• DS1307 real-time clock

Project Report

report Link