Tim’s candle flicker clock provides a novel use of candle flames as a timing reference for a clock, taking advantage of the consistent frequency of the flame’s flickering.
It comes as no surprise that candle manufacturers have traditionally tried to reduce the flicker effect, which can be highly sporadic when one candle is used, let alone when several are grouped together.
However, when several candles are grouped together, they produce a substantial flicker with a surprisingly constant 9.9 Hz frequency, which makes them useful for this innovative timing application.
Connected to a CH32 microcontroller, the flame’s capacitance is sensed and processed to provide the necessary timing.
This project is a great example of repurposing a common item in a creative way to create something truly unique.
