February 15, 2019
Description
Update 7/11/19: Blog post explaining some of the software details. OpenSource code published at github.
https://blog.moddable.com/blog/clock-project/
https://github.com/Moddable-OpenSource/moddable/tree/public/contributed/modClock
Update 7/3/19: Assembly instructions at: http://robotranch.org/blog/archives/1235
These are two panels of light reflectors and limiters for WS2811 neopixel strands - ie. Christmas Lights. (search your favorite online retailer for WS2811 12mm Digital RGB LED Pixel )
Takes a string of 58 - so you'll have to use a string of 50 and attach another 8. Clip off the rest and save them to make another.
Print in whatever color. I then use a plastic spray primer while holding the form with my gloved hand, turning it to get complete coverage and getting in and under the reflector overhangs. Let it dry up for 15 minutes or so, then use a Chrome spray paint and do the same thing. Those two coats should be enough. Let it dry. For a day or preferably more.
If you print in white, the whole painting thing may not be necessary. For transparent PLA, it is a must to prevent light leakage between the segments.
Use the PixelTool to save your thumbs trying to press the pixels into place. The thin retaining holes can break pretty easily, but it takes some force to get the pixels into place.
Use an awl to properly size the holes. The .stl gets close, but the awl will help you get closer. I do it a little at a time until the pixel goes in, then use blue tape around the awl at the proper depth so I can reproduce for all holes. (Something like - search for 5mm - 16mm Hand Held Reamer) You want the leds to be held in firmly.
Get some magic led light transmissive black acrylic from Tap Plastics, and make sure to mount as close to the reflector as possible. This will prevent light leakage and make nice crisp segments.
Use the amazing Moddable JavaScript SDK to build and install the clock project to an ESP32. Connect pin 22, power and ground to the LED string and 5v power.
Power up and connect to the clock WiFi access point that appears.
With a modern browser that supports MDNS, go to http://clock.local and enter your SSID and password. The clock will use NTP to automatically set itself.
Reconnect your computer to your access point and go to http://clock.local to configure your clock's timezone, daylight savings time, style, colors, etc.
Frame building instructions and software will eventually be posted to http://robotranch.org
License:
Creative Commons - Attribution
mkellner
