Virtual Reality Brain Activity Measurement: The Possibilities of Medical Applications
The possibilities for medical applications of virtual reality brain activity measurement are endless. Researchers at The University of Texas at Austin have modified a commercial virtual reality headset, giving it the ability to measure brain activity and examine how we react to hints, stressors, and other outside forces. This device, which is a noninvasive electroencephalogram (EEG) sensor installed in a Meta Quest VR headset, is comfortable enough to wear for long periods.
VR and EEG: A Powerful Combination
The pairing of VR and EEG sensors has already made its way into the commercial sphere. However, the devices that exist today are expensive and the electrodes are often uncomfortable for the user. This is why the research team at The University of Texas at Austin created a spongy electrode made of soft, conductive materials. This electrode overcomes the issues of the mainstream options, making it easier for the user to wear the headset for longer periods.
The device is so powerful that it could be used in many ways, from helping people with anxiety to measuring the attention or mental stress of aviators using a flight simulator. It could even give a human the chance to see through the eyes of a robot. Virtual reality is much more immersive than just doing something on a big screen, giving the user a more realistic experience. This technology enables us to get better measurements of how the brain is reacting to that environment.
The research team is also working on a new robot delivery network that will serve as the largest study to date on human-robot interactions. The VR headsets will be used by people either traveling with robots or in a remote “observatory.” This will allow them to watch along from the robot’s perspective and measure the mental load of this observation for long periods.
The Benefits of VR Brain Activity Measurement
The benefits of virtual reality brain activity measurement are clear. It can help people with anxiety, measure the attention or mental stress of aviators using a flight simulator, and even give a human the chance to see through the eyes of a robot. It also allows us to get better measurements of how the brain is reacting to that environment.
The researchers have filed preliminary patent paperwork for the EEG and are open to partner with VR companies to create a built-in version of the technology. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the medical field and make it easier for people to access the help they need. With the help of VR brain activity measurement, the possibilities are endless.