The winner of the 2026 Rimowa Design is a wearable device that aims to solve for the communication barrier between hearing impaired and hearing communities. The Nura bracelet, designed by German students Samuel Nagel and Paul Feiler, translates sign language into spoken language while simultaneously converting speech into text. The device uses electromyography (EMG) sensors to detect the electrical muscle signals in the forearm generated during signing to enable real-time translation between the different modes of communication.
NURA form was inspired by the graceful shape of a manta ray and conceived as an elegant accessory that users would choose to wear. The designers sought to challenge the stigma often associated with assistive technologies, demonstrating that accessibility and desirability can coexist.
The project was awarded first prize in the fourth annual Rimowa Design Prize, which challenged students from leading German design schools to rethink the theme of mobility. In a bold stance, Nura expanded the definition of mobility to include the freedom to communicate, participate and connect. While still in development, the designers hope to expand the system beyond its current vocabulary and adapt it to a wider range of regional sign languages.
NURA’s inclusive design serves as functional and aesthetic bridge between the hearing impaired and hearing communities.
Image credit: LVMH, Samuel Nagel, Paul Feiler
