Textual LCD Desk Clock

Summary

A compact, hackable textual clock that shows human-friendly time phrases on a standard HD44780-compatible LCD. Buildable in a weekend: simple 3D-printed parts, straightforward fastenings, and open firmware for the ESP32. The project is ideal if you want a retro—yet customizable—desk clock you can tweak.

Full electronics, firmware and BOM are on GitHub: https://github.com/Smengerl/LCD_Text_Clock

Key Features

• Human-friendly text time display on standard HD44780 modules
• ESP32 firmware with Wi‑Fi time sync and configurable display modes
• Modular 3D-printed enclosure designed for easy assembly
• Optional top-mounted buttons for menu navigation, settings, and user interaction

Printed parts:

• No push button version:
  • lower_part_nobuttons.stl
  • upper_part_nobuttons.stl - print upside down (face on built plate)
• push button version:
  • lower_part.stl
  • upper_part.stl - print upside down (face on built plate)
  • pushbutton_cover.stl - try out which orientation works best for your printer
  • pushbutton_base.stl - try out which orientation works best for your printer

Bill of Materials

• ESP32 development board (any compatible module)
• HD44780-compatible LCD module (16x2 or 20x4)
• Optional: I2C backpack or direct wiring to LCD (see repo)
• Optional: Tactile switches (x3–x4) for top-mounted buttons + button caps
• M3 screws (various lengths) and nuts or heat-set inserts / standoffs
• Power supply (USB / LiPo + power module) as required
• Jumper wires / headers
  For the complete BOM and recommended part numbers, see the GitHub repository.

Print Settings

• Material: PLA recommended (PETG/ABS for higher strength/temperature)
• Rafts: No
• Supports: No
• Resolution: 0.20 mm (0.12–0.28 mm acceptable)  

Notes:                     

• Button fit: test-print button cap; scale tolerance ±0.1–0.2 mm depending on your printer
• Consider fuzzy skin for outer perimeter

Assembly

Assembly Instructions

• Print all parts and remove supports; test-fit main parts (bezel, front cutout, button caps).
• Install tactile switches into the top case button cutouts (ensure correct orientation) and fit button caps.
• Mount the LCD into the bezel and secure the bezel to the case top (test-fit prior to final finishing).
• Fasten ESP32 to internal standoffs; route cables through provided channels. Connect the buttons to the ESP32 GPIOs per wiring diagram.
• Connect LCD to ESP32 per wiring diagram in the repo (power, data, contrast/pot if needed).
• Insert power module / battery and verify cable routing. Do a dry-fit of the assembled stack.
• Flash firmware to the ESP32 following the README instructions on GitHub and configure button functions if required by the software.
• Finalize assembly, then power on and test time sync, display modes and button-driven menus.