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Project

GammaCap

Michael Lin

Groups

Overview

GammaCap is a modular, personal-scale device that delivers synchronized 40 Hz light and sound stimulation—integrated seamlessly into an everyday hat.

Inspired by research from the MIT Picower Institute showing that 40 Hz “gamma” sensory stimulation can promote brain health, our goal is to make the experience more comfortable, discreet, and measurable for people living with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.

Unlike room-scale flickering light systems, GammaCap is worn like a normal hat—providing individualized exposure without disturbing others nearby. 

Background

Recent studies at MIT and elsewhere suggest that entraining the brain at 40 Hz—the gamma frequency—may help support neuronal synchrony and reduce neurodegenerative markers in animal models.

However, most existing systems use flickering lights or speakers that affect everyone in the room. Patients’ families often find these intrusive or unpleasant, limiting consistent use.

GammaCap rethinks the delivery mechanism: a personal, portable, and socially acceptable format.

Design Concept

The GammaCap system includes modular LED and audio units mounted on a flexible headband hidden inside ordinary hats. Each module snaps together magnetically:

  • Light Module: Emits precise 40 Hz flicker using low-glare light guides.
  • Sound Module: Delivers 40 Hz tones at safe levels through near-ear speakers.
  • Controller & Battery: Compact pack with Bluetooth connectivity and charging port.

The wearer controls stimulation via a smartphone LINE app, which starts sessions automatically and logs exposure time—enabling doctors or caregivers to quantify adherence, without collecting any medical data.

Interaction

The LINE app acts as both controller and logbook.
When the user opens or reads messages, the system can trigger a short stimulation period.
All session data—frequency, duration, and comfort ratings—syncs securely to a caregiver dashboard.

This integration allows physicians to track consistency of non-clinical gamma exposure in real-world settings.

Team Members: Michael Lin, Hao Yang, Michelle Ho, Huai-Ting Pien