Japanese Numbers Flash Tiles: Kanji, Hiragana, Romaji

January 11, 2025
Description
Learn Japanese numbers in a tactile and interactive way! These flash tiles feature multiple combinations of Arabic numerals, Kanji, Hiragana, and Romanji.
Unlike previous versions these have a few more filament changes to improve the quality of the characters, previous versions were made with manual filament changes in mind but since then multi-material printing has become more common. If there's interest I may add the old style filament changes but for now these are intended for machines with a multi material a mmu/ams or tool changer.
What are Flash Tiles?
Flash tiles are small, interactive cards that can be used for learning. They're a great way to make studying more engaging.
Here are a few ideas for how to use them:
- Self-testing: Quiz yourself by looking at a tile and trying to recall the readings.
- Matching: Create pairs with the same number in different writing systems and try to match them.
- Counting Practice: Use the tiles to practice counting in Japanese.
Available Sets
There are 5 sets available with various character combinations. Choose the ones that best suit your needs!
For matching exercises, consider printing 2 sets with a common script.
Storage Cases
New cases similar style but much better tolerances, plus stackable lids option.
A 16-tile case is available for a full number set, including alternative readings. Note that not all sets will have 16 tiles.
The full plated 3mf's will include all the correct cases and be labelled
Pick the lid you'd like from the cases folder
Printing Recommendations
- layer height 0.2 .
- 0.4 nozzle.
- For best results, print these tiles solid. Default settings would result in 3 layers of infill, with a difference of 0.3g per tile.
- When switching back to the lighter color, increase the purge volume. This may vary depending on your filaments. Test with a single tile to optimize settings.
- While a textured bed can produce an interesting look, smooth beds are recommended for printing the cases and lids (especially the stacking lid) due to the smaller contact patch.
- I printed this set in PLA but PETG will also work (see previous sets).
Lid Information
Depending on printer tolerances, the lid may be a tight fit. Using it a few times should help loosen it. It's recommended to do this before storing the tiles.
Stacking lid
The stacking lid has a small 65-degree overhang. It has been successfully printed on a Prusa MK4S without supports. For best results, I recommend printing this part separately.
To prevent bridging, the model includes a layer height modifier on the overhang, reducing it to 0.15mm. Ensure this modifier is present before printing.
This part should be printed on a bed with good adhesion
Updates
- New v2 lids looser fit and a lip for easier opening.