Designed with a  “subtle sci-fi look” in mind,  the  Aura cap at first appears transplanted from a  science fiction novel.   Studio José de la O  was brought on board to design the interface for the  neuro technology company  Mirai Innovations, which wanted to create a more  user-friendly and low-cost  headset that would  make monitoring brain activity possibile outside the lab.  The  electroencephalogram cap traditionally  monitors  electrical activity in the brain through a series of electrodes worn on the head – information that could be used to control  robots and other electromechanical devices.  The goal with Aura was to make this technology more accessible, particularly for neuroscience  students and researchers in developing countries. 

“The design is inspired by a subtle sci-fi look, in order to bring familiarity and trust as its main target are university students and scientist that may not be in contact with technology as much as it’s American or European counterparts,” says Studio José de la O. That’s why everything has a sustainable cost. Standard electrodes can be fitted into components on the cap that have been 3D printed to reduce costs. Guides in these components direct cables towards the back of the form-fitting cap, which fastens below the chin like a second skin. By means of a very simple graphical interface, data can be obtained in a more simplified way for researchers and scientists. Biological signals can be monitored efficiently. Thanks to a design with simplicity.