Nico-Tech Shenzhen is a tech community with over 3,000 members, focused on making technology fun. The group includes tech enthusiasts, researchers, and founders, aiming to share interests and grow together. At MFSZ 24 this year, they will bring a dozen makers from Japan and some tech-fun projects.
USB Mokugyo: Smart Percussion Instrument
The USB Mokugyo represents an innovative fusion of tradition and modern technology. This smart percussion instrument features a USB-connected wooden body with embedded sensors, LEDs, and a microcontroller. The device is programmed using Arduino IDE and custom MokugyOS software, with sutra data stored in EEPROM, transforming the ancient instrument into a versatile digital interface.
The Mokugyo’s versatility is showcased through six operational modes, each indicated by a different LED color. These modes range from a chanting keyboard to a MIDI instrument, and even include functionality as a game controller. This multifunctional design not only preserves the Mokugyo’s traditional role but also expands its capabilities into the digital realm, creating a unique bridge between ancient spiritual practices and contemporary technological applications. Click here for more information about the USB Mokugyo on GitHub.
Click here for the USB Mokugyo demo.
Klipper: Advanced 3D Printer Firmware by gear_geek
Klipper, developed by gear_geek from Japan, is an innovative 3D printer firmware that enhances printing precision and performance. It features high-precision stepper movement, smooth pressure advance for improved print quality, and input shaping to reduce vibrations. Klipper’s hardware-agnostic design ensures consistent timing across various electronics platforms, while its simple configuration via a standard file eliminates frequent micro-controller reflashing.
The firmware’s portability across different architectures (ARM, AVR, PRU) and use of Python for high-level operations enhance its adaptability. Klipper supports custom programmable macros and includes a built-in API server for advanced printer control. Gear_geek’s innovation extends beyond Klipper, with additional projects available on their GitHub repository, further contributing to the maker community.
Click here for Klipper demo.
The Audilu Circle: Where Sound Meets Light
Born from a simple idea – “What if we made a circular LED level meter?” – the audilu circle transforms audio into visual art. Initially conceived as a portable device, it evolved into a desk-friendly illumination system that responds to sound in real-time. Using either line input or a built-in microphone, it analyzes audio and activates LEDs accordingly.
The device offers customizable features like adjustable brightness, color gradients, and a rainbow mode, all controlled via a user-friendly rotary encoder. Powered by USB Type-C, the audilu circle functions both as an interactive audio-visual display and static ambient lighting, making it a versatile addition to any space.
Check out the prototype of audilu circle here.
Tech-Inspired Dorayaki
By chance, the maker found something intriguing late at night: dorayakis labeled “104K Capacitor Dorayaki” and “404 Not Found Dorayaki”. Using the 3D printer and laser cutter at home, the maker decided to engrave these “104K” and “404 not found” onto the dorayakis. It came from a sudden burst of late-night inspiration and took all night to be practiced.
In essence, this maker used the laser processing machine to engrave “104K” and “404 not found” onto the dorayaki, turning a simple snack into a fun, tech-themed creation.
Click here to process the video of the Dorayaki.
