Inventor Kim Rubin is launching a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the Elephant Timer, a novel device that may soon become adopted as the world’s simplest timer.

“An elephant never forgets.” Elephant Timer is a 12-sided dodecahedron that combines an innovative design with a simple interface. To set the timer, simply rotate the timer to any side marked with 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 45, and 60 minutes—providing 11 times and off. The top of the timer, with the elephant logo, is off. To set a time, turn the desired time face up.

Elephant Timer also supports two simultaneous timers. For example, while a 10-minute timer is running, a second 30-minute timer may be set. If rotated to a new time while the timer is running, a second timer for the new time interval starts. When each time is up, the length of time is announced. For example, “30 minutes—time is up!”

Some models of Elephant Timer support finer-tuned time intervals by adding sequential face times. For example, rotating first to 10 and then to 2 sets 12 minutes. Elephant Timer will announce, “New time set — 12 minutes.”

Elephant Timer announces settings and completion with a fluid, natural voice plus a unique tone for each time. “10 minutes — time is up!” Two waterproof speakers provide a consistent volume level no matter which side is up or how the timer is rotated. Users may cycle through three different volume levels by tapping the timer three times.

To find out how much time is remaining, simply tap the top of the timer. Elephant Timer announces the exact number of minutes remaining and may be moved from room to room without affecting a running time.

Elephant Timer is about the size of a baseball and made from polycarbonate (used in bullet-proof glass).

The versatility of Elephant Timer sets it apart from other timers. Drop-proof and water resistant, Elephant Timer is dependable. No climate is too severe. Rotating the timer to set takes about a second. Finally, there is also a rugged, washable timer for use in the garden, sports fields, classrooms, and medical facilities.

Elephant Timer is ideal for both small children and the elderly. With large, clear digits and a 20-year battery*, Elephant Timer never forgets.

“I wanted to design a timer as simple, intuitive and fast to set as possible while having more capability,” said Mr. Rubin. “Elephant Timer has no buttons and no display. It is almost trivial to set, even at night and for those with poor eyesight.”

To encourage support, incentives include:

• $1 – For $1, backers participate in new model designs, help rate model suggestions and keep up with Elephant Timer team progress.
• $30 – For $30, early backers receive 25% off the full retail price of an Elephant Timer.
• $40 – For $40, you’ll receive one of the first Elephant Timers off the production line.
• $70 – For $70, backers receive two Elephant Timers.
• $500 – For $500, a backer receives 20 customized timers for business promotion.
• Other pledge levels are available.

*Permanent batteries using Lithium/Iron Disulfide technology (Energizer L91s) with a manufacturer’s stated 20-year lifespan are welded inside the timer. Under typical use, the batteries should last 8 to 12 years.

Elephant Timer carries an unconditional 5-year warranty, including coverage from dropping, water damage, and battery exhaustion from heavy use.

Mr. Rubin is a professional inventor and registered patent agent. He is a cofounder of four companies, including PatientSafe Solutions. He has designed equipment for Disney World, the Keck Observatory and operating rooms. He first envisioned the timer while watching his elderly parents with bad eyesight and arthritic hands attempt to set conventional timers.

The Kickstarter to raise $40,000 for Elephant Timer begins March 1, 2016. It will retail for $39. The initiative will be supported by a social media campaign:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ElephantTimer
Twitter: twitter.com/elephant_timer
Instagram: www.instagram.com/elephant_timer
Website: www.kickstarter.com