Levitating Mask

Gift For an Anime Nerd

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. 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. 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. My vision for the final version is shown in my rough sketch below.

As you can see I plan to make the mask itself from a 3D print, but I hope to cast the “face” portion from resin. I would do this by 3D printing the face shield, then turning that into a silicon mold where I would finally cast the resin. I’d also love to make the magnetic levitation module myself, but we will see what time allows.

In my best case scenario I adorn the base with scenes from the setting of Code Geass (Britannian Empire) and perhaps a secret message in Japanese. I also make the magnetic levitation module from scratch, print the PCB with a cute message on it, and add inductively powered LEDs for flair. This is shown below.

This is veerrryyy ambitious for the timeline, so I’ve got a few backup plans. The first is buying a magnetic levitation kit off the internet and simply soldering it together. The second is buying a premade levitating stand and just 3D printing the whole mask rather than messing with rein.

As you can see in the final section of this report my schedule has wiggle-room for either scenario: 1 in which I am able to achieve the complete “dream” project and a backup plan where I have to rush a cut some corners.

The Aesthetic

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 in midair. These displays typically use a combination of permanent magnets and electromagnets, along with active control systems to achieve stable levitation. Wireless power transfer (via induction) could also be integrated to keep LEDs or small objects powered while floating. Themed after Code Geass’s mecha designs, my display could incorporate sleek metallic or matte black surfaces with glowing red, green, or purple LED elements (matching the Geass symbol or the cockpit displays). I could also engrave or print Britannian or Black Knights insignia onto the base.

I’ve found some great resources for this project so far such as the Youtube videos shown below that give details on the fabrication process of both the 3D print and diy magnetic levitator.

Credit: Punished Props Academy on YouTube

Credit: Max Imagination

Shapes, Textures, and Colors

For the maglev display I plan to hide the inductors inside of a sleek black case. My plan is to 3D print it, sand it down, and use a small layer height so it looks cohesive and uniform. Overall the color pallet is going to be dark and high contrast. I plan on using blacks, whites, and silvers only however, the face-piece will add intrigue. This will be a metallic color achieved by mixing mica powder into resin. I have discussed this plan with some nice folks in my senior design class who have resin casting experience (I have none) and they have offered me mica powder for free which is great, and assured me that it will not sink during the curing process which I was concerned about.

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 will be mixing very sharp matte design elements (mountain like peaks line the top of the helmet) with round, shiny ones (the face-piece) this will draw the eye towards the center of the piece.

More Fun Ideas/ Stretch Goals

For my Code Geass-inspired magnetic levitation display, I want to incorporate high-tech elements that bring the world of Code Geass to life. One idea I love is a Geass activation effect, where the floating mask or emblem glows with red LEDs or a small hidden projector that displays the iconic Geass sigil beneath it. I could take it even further by using inductive power transfer to wirelessly light up the floating object, whether it’s a Zero mask with glowing eyes or a levitating Britannian emblem. To add an interactive element, I’m considering motion control—how cool would it be if the mask rotated or shifted in response to a gesture, like Lelouch moving a chess piece? Another possibility is designing the base as a futuristic console or chessboard, complete with e-ink or LED touch panels displaying Knightmare schematics or Lelouch’s strategic battle plans. If I really want to push the futuristic aesthetic, I could create a holographic illusion of the Geass sigil floating above the mask, using a Pepper’s Ghost effect or a tiny laser projector. And for the final touch, I want to integrate a hidden Zero’s Command feature—maybe a concealed button that plays Lelouch’s most iconic lines or an NFC chip that triggers a secret animation or AR experience when scanned. This project isn’t just about levitation—it’s about making the display feel like it was pulled straight from the world of Code Geass, where technology and strategy intertwine in dramatic, cinematic ways.

Side note: commenters please let me know any fun facts about the show that you know, all of this has come from google, because I’ve never seen the anime myself. Any help is appreciated!

Budget and Alternate Aesthetics

I estimate that this project will cost me ~$100. This is due in large part to the magnetic levitation display module. The cost breakdown is as follows:

Resin kit: $22

Magnetic Levitation: $60 (diy and backup method developed in parallel)

3D print: free

Smart Led Strip: $12

Mica Powder: free

An alternative aesthetic could be the dieselpunk style that is featured in the Britannica region in Code Geass. Dieselpunk is a subgenre of retro-futurism that focuses on an alternate future wherein the diesel powered designs of the 1950s only grew in complexity while maintaining the same stylistic elements. However, I really wanted to do a magnetic levitation display as an electrical engineering nerd and my “client” loves the look of Lelouch’s helmet which looks a lot more futuristic than dieselpunk.

Schedule:

The Code Geass-inspired magnetic levitation display project follows a structured timeline, ensuring each phase is completed efficiently. Beginning on March 12th, the 3D printing and fabrication of the mask will take place, allowing ample time for design refinements before March 21st. A break is scheduled from March 22nd to March 28th, providing time for rest or additional design adjustments. Following this, the resin casting for the face-piece will be completed by April 4th, ensuring a smooth, high-quality finish. The core technical phase, assembling and fine-tuning the magnetic levitation module, spans from April 4th to April 16th, allowing time for troubleshooting and optimizations. From April 16th to April 21st, final sanding and interfacing of parts will refine the display for seamless assembly. The first fabrication milestone is due on April 21st, with the second and final fabrication phase concluding on April 28th. This schedule balances design, fabrication, and testing, ensuring a polished final product while leaving time for adjustments before the deadline.

Conclusion

This Code Geass-inspired magnetic levitation display isn’t just a futuristic art piece, it’s a fusion of technology, storytelling, and interactive design. With its floating, illuminated elements,  and hidden surprises, it captures the sleek, high-tech aesthetic of a world where strategy and innovation reign supreme. The use of magnetic levitation and wireless power makes it feel like something from a sci-fi anime. As a personalized tech gift, it’s the perfect way to bring a piece of that world to life for a loved one (and a giant geek).

Final Notes:

Credit for Featured Image: CODE GEASS Lelouch Zero Helmet Cosplay Armet Wearable Mask Halloween Helmet Gift on Ebay.com

Credit for generating schedule graphic and assistance in brainstorming process: ChatGPT