M.I.N.D. brain sensor caps: Coupling precise brain imaging to virtual reality head-mounted displays

Abstract

Today, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are the new communication tools readily available to consumers. Because of the increasing availability of AR and VR, communication and neuroscience researchers are showing increasing interest in the use of VR systems for studies in collaboration, communication, and basic neuroscience. Beyond relying on self-reported or behavioral measures, psychophysiological or functional neuroimaging measurements sensing brain waves (e.g. EEG) or brain hemodynamics (e.g. fNIRS) are powerful techniques for measuring brain activity while interacting with virtual reality stimuli or environments. However, using these measures with virtual reality systems can be difficult due to physical and technical constraints. Both Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) and Electroencephalography (EEG) need multiple channels to measure brain activity, a combination of cables and probes must be attached to a head cap. However, this setup obstructs wearing head-mounted display (HMD) in a VR environment and the challenge varies with the design of the HMD. To overcome these limitations, we introduce the design and development of the M.I.N.D. brain measurement cap specifically adapted for research with virtual reality system. We discuss the design process as well as the advantages and limitations of the current iterative design of the cap. Generally, we anticipate that this measurement system will expand the potential of influence of cognitive neuroscience contribute on VR research by making it easier for researchers to use a breadth of tools.