We present FractalBrain, a Neuro-interactive Virtual
Reality experience using Electroencephalogram input to reach Mindfulness for the user.
In an effort to guide user to calm state, we combine virtual reality experience with fractals
and EEG technologies to present meditation experience. Users immerse themselves in a virtual
reality environment where they witness real-time EEG visualizations of their brain activity. These
visualizations are translated into abstract imagery that reflect the status of their mind,
adjusting in rhythm to match the user's brain waves and state of mind to reach calmness.
In recent year, there has been a recent practice in digital media to visualize and explore artistic
experience and expression using EEG input. The COVID-19 pandemic saw a significant surge in
the use of the guided meditation application in virtual reality, which allowed users to meditate
from any virtual location in the world, from a Japanese bamboo garden to an Arctic wonderland.
Additionally, utilizing an augmented reality headset and EEG sensors, researchers have
recently investigated the cognitive measurement of attention and bandwidth during natural locomotion
and interaction with augmented objects. Our five-minute experience begins with
participants wearing a 14-channel EEG headset and adjusting the wet sensors to ensure optimal
EEG reading and good contact with the scalp. After that, the participant will put on the
VR headset connected through an Oculus Link, with Unity game engine rendering the virtual
world and EEG visualization. Participants will be presented an ever-changing three-dimension
fractal-inspired graphic combined with spatial audio using Presence Platform’s XR Audio SDK.
While users engage with our system, their brain signals are captured and sent to the EmotivBCI
software for analysis. These signals undergo analysis through EmotivPro software to derive
various performance metrics such as Attention, Engagement, Interest, Excitement, Relaxation,
and Stress. These metrics serve as live inputs for dynamically adopting visuals and auditory
elements of the user’s experience. As changes in EEG metrics occur, parameters controlling
fractal imagery and audio adjust to reflect the participant's current state, creating an abstract
visualization within the virtual world. Users witness these real-time alterations through their
VR experience, where visual, audio, and parameter metrics from EEG converge seamlessly.
Using the EEG sentiment metrics as its primary source of input,
FractalBrain aims to evoke emotional states that increase attentiveness, ultimately
aiming to achieve the state of mindfulness through our VR meditation experience.
We invite you to try Fractal Brain, a virtual reality EEG visualization
experience that can guide you achieve serenity and meditation. Thank you
for watching and we hope you can try it for yourself at CHI 2024!