kellotaulujärjestelmä

Kellotaulujärjestelmä, known in English as the clock face system or clock dial system, is a method of specifying directions and locations relative to a central point, often used in military contexts, aviation, and sometimes in everyday communication when precise directions are needed without formal mapping. It conceptualizes a clock face superimposed on a surrounding area, with the observer at the center.

The system divides the 360 degrees of a circle into twelve hours, with each hour representing 30 degrees. For instance, 12 o'clock is directly in front of the observer, 3 o'clock is to the right, 6 o'clock is directly behind, and 9 o'clock is to the left. Intermediate times like 1:30 indicate a direction halfway between 1 o'clock and 2 o'clock.

This method simplifies communication by providing a quick and intuitive way to direct attention or identify the location of objects or threats. For example, a pilot might report seeing another aircraft at "10 o'clock high," indicating its position relative to their own aircraft. Similarly, a soldier might warn a comrade about an approaching enemy at "2 o'clock." The "high" or "low" modifier can be added to indicate altitude relative to the observer. The system is effective for its simplicity and for conveying spatial information rapidly, especially in dynamic environments.