Sometimes wearable headband device by studio beyond
Studio Beyond conceives Sometimes, a wearable headband device that sends electrical signals to the wearer in hopes of lowering people’s stress. A smart, non-invasive tool, the piece, a similar shape to a fitness tracker or smart band, fits around the head and allows direct contact with the skin. Electrodes on the surface of the device send gentle electrical pulses, and these pulses target the nervous system, which may help to lower stress or balance mood. The Cambridge-based studio led by designers Paul Gibson and Matt Maitland says that the device’s process draws from the research that shows how electrical signals can influence brain activity.
There’s an elastic band around Sometimes to adjust to and fit the wearer’s head, and it comes with a slider or clasp mechanism at the back for a snug and custom fit. Around the band, modules are attached to the headband, positioned on either side of the head, likely over the temples or forehead regions. These are the main functional components housing the electronics that send the electrical signals. The surface of these pods appears smooth and matte, an even surface for comfort during long-time use. On one of the electrode pods, a small, subtle white indicator light is visible, which can indicate the device’s power status, activity, or battery level. Adjacent to the indicator light, the possibly touch-sensitive power button lies to activate or turn off the wearable headband device.
all images courtesy of Studio Beyond
Sensors inside neurotech tool send electrical signals
The Sometimes wearable headband device includes sensors and a small processor within it. These components send and control the electrical signals, which are carefully measured and adjusted to stay within safe limits to make sure that the user doesn’t feel pain or discomfort. Studio Beyond creates the tool as such so that there’s no surgery or medical training required to use it. The team adds it can be worn daily, depending on the user’s needs.
The team designs Sometimes with user experience in mind, as they want it to look and feel like a regular wearable product. There may be a stigma on people wearing medical devices, so the studio wants to curate and create a look that is already familiar to many people, which can help people stay committed to using the device over time. In the past, medical devices were used mostly in hospitals or clinics. Now, with wearable technology and headband devices like Sometimes, people can access treatment or support at home. So far, the project is still a concept.
different pastel-like colors are designed for the tool
electrodes on the surface of the device send gentle electrical pulses
a small, subtle white indicator light is visible, which can indicate the device’s power status
view of the slider for a snug fit
stitched-in design of waves hinting at the electrical signals
the piece fits around the head and allows direct contact with the skin
so far, the project is a concept neurotech tool
project info:
name: Sometimes
studio: Beyond | @studiobeyond.cc
lead designers: Paul Gibson, Matt Maitland
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: Matthew Burgos | designboom
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