Funny, I've been playing with panel-meters as well…
I have an analog computer I'm finishing up. I have ADC's to convert the analog to digital to display the values on an LCD (with an ESP32 dev board—it was more flexible than panel meters, cheaper than an oscilloscope).
But because looking at "simulated" panel-meters seemed to kind of undercut the point of the analog computer, I went ahead and created a small PCB to go from my analog computer to a panel meter like the one in the clock.
Running a "Spring + Mass" simulation on the analog computer and seeing both the LCD/ESP32 representation of a panel meter and an actual panel meter move in sync brought it all home.
You’re exactly right..that’s how I end up learning tech stuff. It’s not working very well with modelling though. I’ve set my sights too high, the projects are too involved
So sexy! I could probably build the electronics easily enough, but such projects need workworking tools I just don't have room for in my tiny flat.
(nor would the missus be pleased for me to buy them - but that's another matter)
Cool! I was at least hoping for an op amp or two for the circuit however ;)
Funny, I've been playing with panel-meters as well…
I have an analog computer I'm finishing up. I have ADC's to convert the analog to digital to display the values on an LCD (with an ESP32 dev board—it was more flexible than panel meters, cheaper than an oscilloscope).
But because looking at "simulated" panel-meters seemed to kind of undercut the point of the analog computer, I went ahead and created a small PCB to go from my analog computer to a panel meter like the one in the clock.
Running a "Spring + Mass" simulation on the analog computer and seeing both the LCD/ESP32 representation of a panel meter and an actual panel meter move in sync brought it all home.
Nice! Needs just a tweak to prevent the overshoot and bounce when going from high to low.
Wut? We add extra lines of code just to get that in digital?
;-)
Nah the bounce is gorgeous
This is gorgeous. I really need to hunker down and learn 3d modeling. It unlocks so many options from cnc to 3d printing.
In my experience, having a project/goal will make it do-able for you. You have both the motivation and an target (dare I say, North Star?) in sight.
You’re exactly right..that’s how I end up learning tech stuff. It’s not working very well with modelling though. I’ve set my sights too high, the projects are too involved