This tape measure shows the time of day in inches
May 1st, 2020
— Tape measures are great for determining length, width, and height. But what about the fourth dimension, time? Normally you’ll need a different device to show this ever-changing entity, but creators Alex Fiel and Anna Lynton have managed to turn the measuring tool into a clock.
Instead of being pulled to a certain distance, the tape extends automatically representing the hour by number of inches shown.
Unrolling is controlled by a NEMA 17 motor inside its custom 3D-printed housing, along with an Arduino Nano and RTC module for proper timekeeping.
Check it out on display in the video below!