This Linear Calendar Clock Is Perfect for Keeping Up with Your Appointments

The shape and design of a standard analog clock isn’t arbitrary. The hour hand and minute hands having different lengths in order to make them easy to tell apart is just one example of the thought that went into the layout we all recognize. But that doesn’t mean that layout is the best one for your modern life. The entire purpose of a clock is to help you keep track of your time in order to accomplish everything you need to in a day. Many of you probably use Google Calendar to keep track of your appointments, and Maakbass designed this Linear Calendar Clock specifically for you.

This unique clock has two horizontal rows of blocks that are used to show the current time and supplemental information. The top row contains all 24 hours of the day, and between each hour there is an additional block to represent the half-hour. The bottom row of blocks is offset slightly, so one bottom block fills the space between the half points of the upper blocks. The reason for that becomes apparent when you see it working. While the upper blocks are simply showing the time, the bottom blocks can be lit to indicate the chunks of time that are occupied by appointments. Other display modes are available, but that is the one that most people would find useful.

The functions are all controlled by an ESP8266 board. The Google API makes your calendar accessible (once authenticated), so the clock can update automatically over WiFi. Strips of WS2812B LEDs are used to illuminate the blocks. Those are edge-lit transparent acrylic that were laser cut to engrave the number and notches. All of those parts are contained within a simple 3D-printed enclosure that is minimalistic enough to fit unobtrusively in any office. If you want a great way to visualize your appointments through the day, this is a project that can help you do that.