Cy's Clock Page

Objectives

As the first project in COSMOS Cluster 2 Engineering Design and Control of Kinetic Sculptures, we were tasked with constructing a pendulum clock with our unique design. This project introduced fundamental skills such as manufacturing parts in the design studio, using unfamiliar computer design software such as Fusion360, AutoCAD, and Working Model 2D. This project also introduced some theories and equations that allowed us to complete the inertial and point-mass analysis for our pendulums.

Many new topics were introduced in this project, but the aspects I struggled with the most were using Fusion360 and simulating the oscillation in Working Model 2D, but through collaboration and perseverance, I was able to tackle these challenges. Having never been in a manufacturing studio, I was also unfamiliar with the tools used to prepare the parts for assembly, such as the reamer and the LaserCam.

Outcomes

The most captivating outcome I took away from this project was the analysis section. To me, it was fascinating to see the predicted period of oscillation I calculated from various equations and Working Model 2D line up with the measured period of my physical clock. Throughout this project, I learned how to use new computer software to design physical pieces and work in the manufacturing studio to prepare them for assembly. I also learned the importance of accuracy when measuring and sampling measurements.