VRiBraiN

Visualization of 7 functional connectivity networks using Google Cardboard VR

Visualization of the human brain using complex images (tractography, functional connectivity, and functional imaging) is a challenge.

Different visualization solutions have been proposed. For example, Margulies et al. (2013), describe 2-D as well as 3-D neuroimaging visualization methods for anatomical, tractography, and functional connectivity data. Rojas et al. (2014), described a stereoscopic-related method to view neuroradiological 3-D images.

Virtual reality (VR) is an environment of scenes or real-life like objects, generated by computer technology, which create the feeling of being immersed in it. The environment is viewed by the user via a device usually known as glasses or virtual reality helmet.

Google Cardboard is a VR platform created by Google Inc. It is a low-cost device built using a piece of cardboard, 45 mm focal length lenses, magnets, VelcroTM, and optionally a near field communication tag (NFC), that uses a smartphone to generate VR stereoscopic 3D scenes with a broad field of view.

Here we describe an Android based mobile VR application that shows in 3D the seven standard functional connectivity networks with immersive characteristics.

Reference: G.M. Rojas, J.A. Fuentes, M. Gálvez. "Virtual Reality Intrinsic Functional Connectivity Visualization Application: VRiBraiN", 22th Annual Meeting of the Organization for Human Brain Mapping, Geneva, Switzerland, June 2016.