Futuristic Anime Project: Aesthetics, Inspirations, and Vision

Product Introduction

My final project is a helmet based on the accessory of the protagonist in the anime Code Geass. This item will stand on a magnetic levitation display that will slowly rotate the object while levitating it using a permanent magnet. This object is intended as a gift for my boyfriend who loves Code Geass and is a giant physics nerd. My primary project aesthetic is futurism. My aim was 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. 

Futuristic Elements

The futurism aesthetic is a design and artistic movement that emphasizes technology, speed, innovation, and forward-thinking. Modern interpretations of futurism often feature sleek metallic surfaces, neon lighting, geometric shapes, cybernetic elements, and high-tech minimalism. This aesthetic is commonly seen in science fiction media, cyberpunk art, and conceptual designs for futuristic cities, vehicles, and wearable technology. A magnetic levitation module themed after Code Geass can be a great fit for futurism. Code Geass incorporates a mix of mecha, advanced propulsion technologies, and cybernetic warfare, which align with futurism’s emphasis on progress and technological sophistication. In addition the levitation element demonstrates aesthetically exciting technology, which is a critical to futurism.

Magnetic levitation (maglev) displays work by exploiting the principles of electromagnetism to suspend and stabilize an object mid-air. These displays typically use a combination of permanent magnets and electromagnets, along with active control systems to achieve stable levitation. My specific circuit uses a hall-effect sensor which sends data via i2c to a microcontroller embedded system.

The shape of this project will be a critical source of contrast. Futurism designs tend to have very high contrast and unnatural symmetrical shapes. I mixed very sharp matte design elements like the pointed tips at the top of the helmet with round, smooth ones (the face-piece) this will draw the eye towards the center of the piece.

I decided to expose the circuits on the maglev inspired by the transparent, circuit-forward style of 90s electronics, where the inner workings are proudly displayed rather than hidden. 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. This elevates the experience from one of aesthetic admiration to one of educational intrigue. 

This aesthetic movement is having a resurgence with companies such as Sony and Apple releasing clear tech in 2025. According to TheVerge.com “Now, we’ve got clear smartphones like the Nothing Phone, see-through earbuds like the Beats Studio buds, colorful translucent shell casings for game consoles, and even chargers and USB-C cables that show off some capacitors for your pleasure.”(Verge Staff, “It’s clearly time: all the news about the transparent tech renaissance”). As an electrical engineer (and a dork) I love this trend in futurism. Showcasing the complex circuits that enable our tech-centered lives. I believe that this trend will continue to grow in the coming years, so in the interest of being one step ahead, I’ve implemented it into my design. 

Inspirations

I initially decided to make a magnetic levitator after reading an article from Vox about Japanese magnetic levitation trains that are breaking speed records.

Here’s the link: https://www.vox.com/2014/11/16/7230107/japane-maglev-bullet-train?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://www.vox.com/2014/11/16/7230107/japane-maglev-bullet-train?

Now, I’m not breaking any engineering stereotypes by geeking out over this train, but it is awesome. The SCM Maglev set a world record by travelling passengers across Japan at 603km/hr by leveraging electromagnetic suspension. Because the train is levitating, the systems is essentially frictionless, allowing it to achieve speeds never before seen.

Credit: JapanGuide.com

I believe that these trains are an excellent and optimistic symbol of futurism. Climate change grow is only growing in impact and America needs to stop relying on individual cars to transport citizens. While the gas-guzzling minivan is a symbol of normal family life in the US, other countries are developing solutions that make public transit faster, cleaner, more comfortable, and more affordable. This means that the climate-friendly choice could also become the more convenient and economical one. It is precisely this type of innovation that I believe will define the next 50 or so years. Projects that center sustainability, while making such change easy for the consumer will earn a lot of commercial success while gaining backing from government climate incentive programs. Many depictions of a futuristic utopia include floating public transport as well such as these images below.

Credit: WallpapersOK

Credit: VirtualStudioBackgrounds.com

Aside from being futuristic in principle, these trains also look very futuristic. The smooth elongated nose and seamless body match up quite well with modern artwork of a utopian future. This idea is further by smooth, reflective surfaces, minimalistic contours, and uninterrupted lines. I later learned that the levitation system emits a subtle glow during operation, which reminds me of LED cybernetic ideas of futurism. Every design choice reinforces the impression of speed, innovation, and cutting-edge engineering. This was a big takeaway for me, I wanted my object to showcase engineering, physics, and innovation. To arise curiosity and wonder.

Of course, I was also inspired by the anime Code Geass. The mask itself is based entirely on the mask worn by Lelouche in the Japanese animated series. I personally had never seen the anime when this project started, I chose this character because it is my boyfriend’s all-time favorite show and because the futuristic style of the anime matches well with the futuristic image of magnetic levitation.