Gyroscopic Watch Winder Specifications and Constraints

The main focus of my project is functionality. So, the top 5 specifications are based on how practical it is. The first specification is the ability to spin and wind the watch. My project aims to wind my automatic watch so it does not run out of power while I wear it. If it does not wind my watch, the project will be pointless. The second important specification to me is the ease of use/functionality. I hope to make it so it can be plugged in or batteries put in and run without much intervention.

Figure 1: Example of how I could run the Arduino off of a battery

Ideally, it will just be a button that you press, and it runs for a timer or indefinitely. The third important specification of my project is how compact the design is. If the design is not compact, I cannot display it efficiently without changing how my room is laid out. A compact design is also essential for the transportation of the watch winder. The fourth specification is for a pleasing aesthetic design. While the main concern is functionality, I want the watch winder to be a functional display piece. If it is not aesthetically pleasing, I will not want people to see it and will most likely keep it tucked away. The fifth important specification to me is the watch’s noise level. I hope it is quiet enough not to be a nuisance while running. Given that I will run the watch winder for extended periods in my room, it will be difficult if it is too loud.

The main constraints of my project are slowing progress and making it difficult to get along with my project. The first primary constraint is time. Because of my school schedule and switching majors early in my school career, I am taking a lot of credits. Specifically, I am taking 18 credits, and many of my classes have projects. Because of this, I am pressed for time and have been unable to dedicate as much time as necessary to this project. Another constraint I have is previous experience. I initially planned to make the whole project out of wood and use a laser cutter to get the necessary geometries. I do not have much experience working with wood and laser cutters, so I am considering using additive manufacturing and 3d printing to create the watch winder.

Figure 2: Arduino Nano

My fourth constraint is money. I hoped to make this project while spending as little money as possible. This is becoming difficult because I realized I need a microcontroller for the stepper motor and do not know if I can borrow the one I need from the ITLL. I will work with the staff to try and resolve this issue as soon as possible, but I may need to purchase one externally, which is against one of my original goals of keeping the project inexpensive.

Figure 3: Gyroscopic Watch Winder

My fifth constraint is ideas. Because so many online forums already outline plans for a gyroscopic winder, I have difficulty breaking away from those ideas and making new ones.

Figure 1: https://forum.arduino.cc/t/simplest-battery-power-to-arduino-nano-solution/530242

Figure 2: https://store-usa.arduino.cc/products/arduino-nano

Figure 3: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/fashion/gyro-winder-watch-winder-remontoir-montre

Feature Image: https://thepracticalengineer.com/blog/watchwinder