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Mechanism Design - 05 / 06

Escapement Mechanism

I precision-milled and designed a gravity-driven clock escapement.

Location
Middlebury Makerspace
Date
Fall 2024
Escapement mechanism ticking

An escapement converts continuous rotational energy into discrete periodic impulses. Driven by a drop-weight on a line and regulated by a pendulum, this mechanism relies on precise tooth geometry between the escape wheel and anchor pallets to prevent slipping or lockup.

Escapement mechanism, close up
The escape wheel & arm

Prototyping & Iteration

I isolated the escape wheel and pallet geometry first, prototyping in laser-cut chipboard and acrylic to verify mechanical engagement. After confirming tooth clearance, I added gear reductions, a winding pulley, and a carbon-fiber pendulum rod clamp.

To validate full-speed operation before final machining, I produced a scaled FDM 3D print. The final version was CNC-milled from mild steel stock.

Iteration process: Chipboard → Acrylic → 3D Print → Milled Mild Steel
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