How to simulate an oscillating balance wheel

The stock engine doesn’t allow for oscillation movements, however it can be simulated using to rotating elements and a shutter/mask. Here’s how it works.

The two wheels are the exact same except one is rotated about 90deg from the other. When rotating in opposite directions, the arms (spokes) overlap each other at a specific points during the rotation. What the mask does is show only an area of one overlap point to the next. Approximately 84deg in this example. This creates an illusion that the arms are moving back and forth when in fact they are not.

While the range and speed is far less than the typical 270deg rotation and 19,800 bpm of a real watch, it does “get you there” as far as the feel.

Code Example

balance 1.png
3
-114
36
2
60


balance 2.png
3
-114
36
2
60


balance 3.png
-114
36

balance 1balance 2balance 3 (masking layer)