Introduction: QR Code Digital Watch
I have been kicking around the idea of making myself a new watch recently. One of the ideas I came up with was to try to display the current time in the form of a QR code or "Quick Response Code". I started off by doing a little research into how to make a QR code. I came across an easy to understand tutorial that did a great job of breaking down the standard. The URL below is a link to the tutorial I used as a reference to build my program:
http://www.thonky.com/qr-code-tutorial/
I’m generating a Version 1 QR code with level Q error correction. My program is currently able to convert letters A-Z, numbers 0-9, (space), and :(colon) into a QR code. I had to use an Arduino Mega 2560 because the ATMEGA328 does not have enough SRAM to work properly. The program displays a new QR code every one second but that can be adjusted if you wanted.
All the code and libraries are below. Everything was written in the Arduino IDE 1.0.1 and you will need to use at least version 1.0.0.
Just The Basics:
Part Cost
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Arduino Mega 2560 R3 $64.99
2.8" Touch Shield $49.00
Chronodot Real-time Clock $17.95
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Total Approximate Cost: $132
What I am using for my current prototype:
Part Cost
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Arduino Mega Mini $42.00
2.8" Touch Shield $49.00
Chronodot Real-time Clock $17.95
Proto-Shield $15.00
LiPo Charger/Booster $19.95
2000 mAh Lithium Ion Battery $16.95
3rd Gen Ipod Nano Armband $0.53
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Total Approximate Cost: $161
