Nudge

Giving Noninvasive Neurotechnology a Physical Form

Our Role

Neurotechnology

Wearables

The Context

Nudge is exploring how noninvasive neurotechnology could move from the research lab into daily life. Using low-frequency ultrasound, an emerging, surgery-free method for modulating brain activity, the device offers a way to shift between mental states like focus, calm, and rest. Card79 partnered with Nudge to take this science out of the clinical world and give it a form people would actually want to wear: a high-fidelity speculative prototype built to feel personal and approachable rather than medical.

Studio render of the Nudge wearable, Light CMF, front hero view with feature callouts

Engineering Precision Into a Wearable Form

Effectiveness depends on consistent alignment with specific regions near the temples, so the design centers on a dual-emitter system housed in adjustable temple modules. Each module was built with controlled degrees of freedom to keep contact reliable across different head shapes, while interchangeable gel pucks maximize skin contact and simplify maintenance.

Engineering Precision Into a Wearable Form

Studio isometric render of the Nudge wearable, Light CMF, view one

Studio isometric render of the Nudge wearable, Light CMF, view two

Studio render of the Nudge wearable, Light CMF, rear view

Designing for Comfort and Stability

A continuous band wraps the head and distributes weight evenly, avoiding the pressure points common to clinical headsets. Rigid where it needs to be and flexible where it doesn't, the structure adapts to different users, while overmolded rear wings supply just enough clamping force to stay secure through extended wear.

Designing for Comfort and Stability

Close-up of the Nudge wearable held in hand, showing the grey CMF and rear wing structure

A Material Language Beyond Medical Devices

Soft-touch surfaces and matte finishes were chosen to lower the tactile and visual friction people associate with medical equipment, while subtle metallic details signal precision without feeling clinical. Two CMF directions, a light, approachable finish and a darker, more technical one, let the device sit comfortably in different everyday contexts.