Clear vs Sleek Electronics

Project Plans

My project is a helmet based on the accessory of the protagonist in the anime Code Geass. The helmet will sit on a magnetic levitation module which harnesses the power of electromagnetic waves to suspend a magnet. My primary project aesthetic is futurism. I hope to create an object that feels like a showcase of technology. An object that naturally arises curiosity surrounding the physics of its operation as well as being sleek and beautiful. The mask itself should be black PLA and the enclosure for the magnetic levitation module will be a black 3D print as well. A friend of mine had suggested that the floating magnetic display can be used to power the levitating object as well, which could contribute to the physics aspect of the project. 

Credit: lemonites on cgtrader

Clear Electronics

One alternate aesthetic I’m considering is inspired by the transparent, circuit-forward style of 90s electronics, where the inner workings are proudly displayed rather than hidden. In this version, the electronics would be housed in a laser-cut acrylic case mounted prominently on the helmet. Instead of sleek curves and concealed seams, the aesthetic would embrace modularity and exposure with components visible through a clear shell. This “tech-exposé” approach shifts the design from minimal futurism to something more retro-futuristic and tactile, drawing attention to the craftsmanship and complexity behind the magnetic levitation. I want the viewer to not only be mesmerized by the illusion of a floating object, but to also engage intellectually with how the effect is achieved. Transparent casings could elevate the experience from one of aesthetic admiration to one of educational intrigue. My only concern is that exposed electronic circuits look more like the 1990s retrofuturism aesthetic. I’m aiming for current futurism as opposed to the imagined future of past generations because the anime which inspired the design, Code Geass is set in an alternate future. 

Credit: bohobeachdecor on Etsy

This version of the helmet would treat the electronic assembly as part of the visual appeal, similar to how early Game Boys or iMacs exposed their internals to celebrate engineering as an artistic medium. I personally love the way that these objects naturally arise learning and an increased understanding of these typically obfuscated systems. The phone pictured above would be a great resource for a class in audio amplification and transmission. It offers the advantage of accessibility, both literally and symbolically. Viewers could trace signal paths, identify components, and potentially be inspired to build something of their own, which as an Electrical Engineering major I really enjoy. Laser-cut sheets of clear clost house house the inductors, protecting the critical elements while offering visibility. Though this diverges somewhat from the smooth, futuristic shell I originally envisioned, it still aligns with my core design goal: to make something that sparks curiosity and awe through its technological presence. Whether sleek and seamless or exposed and expressive, the ultimate purpose of the helmet remains the same, to embody a tangible sense of wonder. 

Credit: CNET.com

Acknowledgement: Used ChatGPT for editing/refining