If you are looking for a slightly different clock, this innovative Knock Clock might well be worth a look. Unlike traditional clocks, it has no hands or clock face to tell the time but uses a system of knocks. This unique approach to timekeeping makes it a fascinating piece of technology and design.
The very unique Knock Clock has been created by three Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design students, Gijs Huisman, Giorgio Uboldi, and Michael-Owen Liston, for entry into a competition. The project took around 48 hours to build, showcasing their creativity and technical skills. You can check the time by simply knocking on the top of the box and waiting for the box to knock back. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
How the Knock Clock Works
The Knock Clock is able to tell time to the nearest quarter hour. When you knock on the top of the box, it responds with a series of knocks that correspond to the current time. For example, three knocks might indicate that it is 3:00, while three knocks followed by one knock might indicate 3:15. This system of auditory feedback is not only innovative but also adds an element of interaction that is absent in traditional clocks.
The clock is even fitted with a basic alarm. To set the alarm, you simply knock a specific pattern that the clock recognizes and stores. When the alarm time arrives, the clock will knock to wake you up. This feature makes the Knock Clock not just a novelty item but a functional timekeeping device.
Design and Technical Details
The interior of the Knock Clock is as intriguing as its exterior. It houses a microcontroller that interprets the knocks and controls the knocking mechanism. The design is minimalist, with a simple wooden box that hides the complexity within. This contrast between the simple exterior and the sophisticated interior is part of what makes the Knock Clock so appealing.
You can view the interior of the Knock Clock over on Giorgio Uboldi’s Flickr site here. The photos provide a glimpse into the intricate wiring and components that make the clock function. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the creators.
The Knock Clock is more than just a timepiece; it’s a conversation starter and a piece of interactive art. It challenges our conventional understanding of how we interact with time and technology. By removing the visual element and relying solely on auditory cues, it forces us to engage with time in a new and thoughtful way.
This innovative clock has garnered attention not just for its unique functionality but also for its potential applications. Imagine a world where devices communicate with us through knocks and taps, creating a more tactile and engaging interaction. The Knock Clock is a step in that direction, blending art, design, and technology in a seamless and thought-provoking manner.
Source: Gizmodo : MAKE
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