Tokyo Tech News
Tokyo Tech News
Published: December 21, 2018
Tokyo Tech's Collaboration Center for Design and Manufacturing (CODAMA) teamed up with the Student Support Center and Tokyo Tech alumni to provide students with two introductory Internet of Things (IoT) seminars in October and November 2018.
The first seminar, held in two parts on October 24 and 31, focused on the basics of artificial intelligence in machine learning, and hands-on Python programming language practice. On both days, Tokyo Tech alumni working for Acroquest Technology Co., Ltd. acted as mentors to roughly 20 participants, half of whom were 1st-year students.
The first session focused on turtle programming in Python, where students learned the basic of coding and then competed in groups to create graphic designs on a drawing board. The second session involved the use of Python and the artificial neural network Keras for handwritten character recognition, and Microsoft Azure to test out facial recognition. While admitting the steep learning curve, many participants stated that the sessions boosted their interest in machine learning.
Focusing on turtle graphics using Python
Group work
“Turtle” obeying commands
Setting up Raspberry Pi
The second seminar, Easy digital signage with Raspberry Pi , was held on November 7 and 14. Again, approximately 20 students participated. In these sessions, employees of Comodo Solutions Co., Ltd. including the company president who is a Tokyo Tech alumni, acted as mentors. Participants used their knowledge of Python to control Raspberry Pi, and displayed and switched images on computer screens. Using an illuminance sensor attached to the Raspberry Pi, students also learned how to change these images based on the amount of light at different times of the day, and how to synchronize screen image changes. Most participants very much enjoyed the experience, and expressed interest in studying the topic further.
Synchronizing changing screen displays
Raspberry Pi seminar participants and mentors
This event provided a relaxing atmosphere for Tokyo Tech students to deepen their interest in machine learning, and to bring them together with professionals already working in the field. Requests from students have prompted CODAMA to install Raspberry Pi testing facilities at the Tokyo Tech makerspace. Details regarding availability will be provided on the CODAMA website.
The next seminar on machine learning will be held on January 16 and 23, 2019. Professionals from both Acroquest Technology and Comodo Solutions have also kindly agreed to assist with advanced seminars in the fall of 2019.
Contact
Collaboration Center for Design and Manufacturing (CODAMA)
Student Learning Support Section, Student Support Center
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