Research Project Overview and Description
This project aims to develop an interactive, game-like prototype that translates brainwave signals into an immersive abstract universe of particles and light fields. Utilizing a wearable EEG headband, the system detects user states such as relaxation and focus, which directly influence the movement, density, and stability of the visual environment. To ensure accuracy, the prototype maps visual changes to stabilized multi-feature signals, specifically relative alpha power gated by low beta variance and high signal quality. By combining this cost-effective, single-user system with TouchDesigner or Three.js, the project provides playful visual feedback and reflective AI prompts to foster calmness and self-observation. The technical stability and subjective user outcomes will be validated through a pilot study involving 15–20 adult participants from HKU.
Research Outcome
The primary technical deliverables include a documented single-user TouchDesigner executable and a reusable Python middleware template. Academically, the team plans to submit two manuscripts to Sensors and Neuroimaging, and will leverage the pilot data to apply for external grants, including the ITF and QEF, by Month 24. For community and social impact, the project will yield an InnoArts workshop, public and student experience sessions, and a stable arts-tech prototype ready for further incubation and exhibition at the Arts Technology Lab.
About the researcher
Dr. Junling Gao is a Research Assistant Professor at the Centre of Buddhist Studies at the University of Hong Kong. He is a neuroscientist specializing in neuropsychology, with research interests focusing on the neuroscientific study of meditation, religious chanting, and mindfulness. He holds a PhD in Neurology from the Medical School at HKU and a Master of Buddhist Studies from the same institution. His work often integrates clinical neurology training with religious studies to explore mental exercise and its effects on brain health and emotional regulation using neuroimaging techniques like EEG and fMRI.
Fund Source
N/A
For enquiries
Please contact at atlab@hku.hk