Standardized fNIRS Cap and 3D Probe Design Using Blender and NeuroCaptain v2
Instructors: Ashlyn McCann, Qianqian Fang, Fan-Yu Yen
About this course
NeuroCaptain is a tool that leverages Blender, an open-source 3D modeling platform, to create reproducible 3D-printed fNIRS/EEG head caps and 3D optode layouts over subject-specific head surfaces. Users can select from preconfigured atlases and 10-20 positions or automatically compute those landmarks based on acquired head surfaces. With a single click, NeuroCaptain converts subject surface meshes into 3D wireframe headcap models that are readily printed by commonly available 3D printers. In the recent v2 release, we implemented an intuitive 3D optode design over the subject surface, offering consistent mapping of 3D optode montages across individual head surfaces while allowing specification of anchor positions, optode distances, and connections using Blender. Both the cap and optode design workflows are expected to facilitate the standardization of fNIRS experiments and the comparison of data across labs.
This workshop introduces NeuroCaptain as a practical solution for probe design and customization. Participants will gain hands-on experience with core functionalities, including head cap generation and optode layout design. The workshop will demonstrate how built-in head models and anatomical landmark meshes generate headgear, followed by opportunities to apply custom inputs such as user-defined head surfaces, atlases, and optode configurations. Participants will explore adjustable design parameters and be guided through creating and modifying probe arrangements.
What will you learn?
Participants will learn to generate their own customizable and anatomically derived head caps, design probe layouts in the 3D space, run light-simulations in the same space to visualize sensitivity, export and import their optode designs, and how 3D → 3D optode design and registration reduces probe registration variability
Course details
Course duration
2 hours
Prerequisites and/or other notes
N/A
Delivery plan
Setup and Installation (10 minutes): Participants install Blender, NeuroCaptain, and required dependencies, with support provided as needed.
Introduction and Overview (10 minutes): Brief presentation introducing NeuroCaptain, its motivation, and core capabilities.
Live Demonstration (10 minutes): Guided walkthrough of key features and typical workflows.
Head Cap Generation Module (~45 minutes): Step-by-step instruction using built-in head models and anatomical landmarks, followed by user customization with their own data and parameters.
Optode Design Module (~45 minutes): Initial guided construction of a standard optode arrangement, followed by hands-on
Why should you enroll in this course?
This workshop will allow users to: set up NeuroCaptain on their own devices, ready for their own research endeavors. Participants will get familiar with the many features of NeuroCaptain and be able to ask questions and get feedback from the developers.