How Does a Cuckoo Clock Calculate Its Quality Factor and Battery Life?

How much energy is dissipated by the pendulum in the same time? What is the ratio of these two energies?In summary, the conversation discusses a small cuckoo clock with a pendulum of length L and mass m, powered by a falling weight with mass M and a daily winding of 2 m. The quality factor Q of the clock is calculated using data of m = 54 g, T = 1.0 s, and M = 949 g. The conversation also considers how many days the clock would run if powered by a 1.5 volt battery with a charge capacity of 1800 mAh. To find the amount of energy loss per cycle, one must calculate the number of "ticks"
  • #1
kraigandrews
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Homework Statement


Consider a small cuckoo clock in which the length of the pendulum is L, suspending a mass m with a period of oscillation T. The clock is powered by a falling weight (mass = M) which falls 2 m between the daily windings. The amplitude of the swing is 0.2 radians.
(A) Determine the quality factor Q of the clock.
Data: m = 54 g; T = 1.0 s; M = 949 g.

(B) How many days would the clock run if it were powered by a 1.5 volt battery with charge capacity equal to 1800 mAh


Homework Equations



T=2pi(L/g)1/2

The Attempt at a Solution



E0=(m+M)gL(1-cos[itex]\Theta[/itex])

I am unsure of how to find the amount of energy loss per cycle.
Or if the masses in the Energy equation are correct
 
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  • #2
The clock's falling weight does not participate in the pendulum motion -- it adds energy to the pendulum via a gear train and escapement mechanism.

How many "ticks" in a 24 hour period? How much energy is added by the falling weight in that time?
 

Related to How Does a Cuckoo Clock Calculate Its Quality Factor and Battery Life?

What is a cuckoo clock pendulum?

A cuckoo clock pendulum is a swinging weight suspended from the bottom of a cuckoo clock that helps regulate the clock's timekeeping. It is typically made of a metal rod with a decorative weight at the end and is attached to the clock's mechanism.

How does a cuckoo clock pendulum work?

As the clock's mechanism moves, it causes the pendulum to swing back and forth. The length of the pendulum and the weight at the end determine the speed at which it swings, which in turn regulates the clock's timekeeping. The pendulum also triggers the cuckoo bird to pop out and make its signature sound on the hour.

What materials are cuckoo clock pendulums made of?

Cuckoo clock pendulums are typically made of metal, such as brass or steel, for durability and functionality. The decorative weight at the end can be made of various materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic, depending on the design of the clock.

Do all cuckoo clocks have pendulums?

No, not all cuckoo clocks have pendulums. While the majority of traditional cuckoo clocks do have pendulums, some modern designs may not include one. The pendulum serves both a functional and decorative purpose, so it ultimately depends on the style and design of the clock.

Can the pendulum affect the accuracy of a cuckoo clock?

Yes, the pendulum plays a crucial role in regulating the timekeeping of a cuckoo clock. If the pendulum is not properly adjusted or is damaged, it can affect the clock's accuracy. It's important to ensure that the pendulum is properly installed and in good condition for the clock to function correctly.

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