Time Zone Converter

Level: Beginner

Concepts: Edge Cases Algorithms

Implement a time zone converter that can convert times between different time zones, handle daylight saving time, and format dates according to various standards.

Requirements

  1. Convert times between different time zones
    • Support major time zones (UTC, EST, PST, etc.)
    • Handle daylight saving time transitions
    • Support custom time zone offsets
  2. Format dates and times
    • Support different date/time formats (ISO 8601, RFC 3339, etc.)
    • Handle different locale-specific formats
    • Support relative time formats (e.g., "2 hours ago")
  3. Validate time zone inputs
    • Check for valid time zone names
    • Validate date/time strings
    • Handle invalid inputs gracefully

Hint

Start by implementing basic time zone conversions using fixed offsets, then add support for daylight saving time. Consider using a time zone database or library for accurate conversions. Think about edge cases like:

  • Times during daylight saving time transitions
  • Times near midnight that cross date boundaries
  • Invalid or ambiguous times
  • Non-integer time zone offsets (e.g., UTC+5:30)
  • Invalid or unknown time zone names
  • Conversions across the International Date Line

Bonus

  • Add support for historical time zone data
  • Implement time zone abbreviation resolution
  • Add support for recurring time conversions
  • Create a time zone database manager
  • Implement time zone-aware scheduling