In order to understand the “transmission dysfunction” of brain nerves, we represent the cranial nerve by using an electronic circuit.

For the representation, we created a pen and notebook using a technology called a “silver nano-ink” pen that conducts electricity.

1. Connect-pen: An originally-designed pen filled with silver nano-ink.

2. Connect-notebook: A notebook with texts explaining brain disorders and illustrations.

The illustrations are the electronic circuits printed with silver nano-ink and connected to batteries and LEDs. The circuit is incomplete, but can be completed by reading the texts and, at the same time, connecting the circuit with the Connect-pen. Then the light turns on. With this reading and connecting work, reader can learn about brain disorders.

We have donated the sets of “Connect-pen” and “Connect-notebook” to Silver Ribbon, an organization that supports patients with mental disorders and engages in educational activities on mental diseases for the public. These pen and notebook sets have been used in workshops held by the organization to continuously promote activities for spreading awareness of brain disorders not only to patients and people related, but also to the general public.

Through this activity, we could gain recognition for our approach to brain disorders from organizations to the medical personnels.