Technical details
Description, documents, and source code.
A clock you can build and see inside
Build a mechanical clock driven by a hanging weight, without batteries or a motor. The open frame lets learners watch the gear train, escapement and adjustable swinging regulator in action.
What learners discover
- Gravitational potential energy and mechanical motion
- Gear transmission and the role of an escapement
- Periodic motion and calibration by moving the regulator weights
How to use
- Assemble and securely hang the model. Attach a weight of approximately 550 g, such as a 550 ml water bottle (not included).
- Turn the winding key to raise the weight and gently start the regulator.
- Compare the motion with a stopwatch. Slide the regulator weights inward to speed it up or outward to slow it down.
- Rewind when the hanging weight reaches the bottom.
In the box
Frame plates, gear wheels, dial, escapement and regulator with two adjustable weights, winding key, hour hand, hooks, drive cord and screwdriver.
Specifications
- Approximate assembled size: 191 mm high × 135 mm wide × 95 mm deep
- Materials: ABS plastic, metal hooks and hardware
- Suggested age: 8+, with adult guidance
- Power: gravity; hanging weight is not included
This is a teaching model, not a precision timepiece. Accuracy depends on assembly, friction and adjustment. Do not exceed the recommended load. Keep fingers and hair clear of moving gears; contains small parts.
Calibration activity
Model reference: EK-D016. Compare several complete back-and-forth regulator swings with a stopwatch, then move both adjustable weights inward or outward and repeat. Aim for a rhythm near one second per complete swing; the model does not guarantee precise timekeeping. Observe how the escapement releases the gear train step by step and how rewinding restores the hanging weight’s potential energy.