The DoubleDisk TFT

Advancing research with Virtual Reality

Phenosys’ state of the art VR systems are designed for pioneering research into animal behaviour under dynamic & flexible conditions. Our systems allow the animal to navigate & perform behavioural tasks in the virtual world, while researchers analyse their brain activity using optogenetic, electrophysiological, or in-vivo imaging methods. We are pleased to introduce another addition to our VR family- The DoubleDisk TFT.

This two-disk treadmill combines the exploration flexibility of a spherical treadmill in the virtual world, and the running stability of a linear treadmill. It also enhances the precision of the experiment with full control over execution and real-time adjustments based on the animal’s response.

It was invented by Mackenzie Mathis and her team at Harvard University and EPFL (“Hausmann, S., Kane, G., & Mathis, M.W. A new mini-VR and dual-wheel platform for closed-loop motor learning and adaptation in mice. FENS 2022 Poster Session. Paris, FR.).

 

Settings & Possible Customizations

  • Broad range of visual, auditory and olfactory stimuli available.
  • Liquid reward & negative reinforcement settings to reinforce preferred behavior.
  • Obstacle stimulus & air-puff settings for whisker simulation for an immersive experience in the virtual world.
  • Brakes to stop movement of the disk, as a trigger to gain control of the animal’s behavior.
  • Zero-point sensor for synchronization, used to determine the degree of disk rotation.
  • Alternative VR display ‘DoubleDisk Dome’ (mirror projection) mode for enhanced experience.
  • Extensive software customizations with settings like ‘run and replay’ available.

 

The PhenoSys promise

  • Ready-to-Use Turnkey Solutions enabling you to focus on science from Day 1
  • Modular and versatile systems allow for high degree of customization, tailored specially to your research needs.
  • Extensive experience with ‘Early Adopters’ allows you to leverage rich insights.
  • Dedicated specialists provide continuous, long term, on-site and online support allowing you to focus on your research with confidence and peace of mind.

Free movement in multi-directional mode:

  • Enhances spatial awareness for the animal and better navigation to give richer results

 

Combined experience of real & virtual world:

  • Enables animal to encounter obstacles on the disk and VR stimuli on the screen simultaneously, with additional olfactory and acoustic cues

 

Automation Capabilities:

  • Reduces manual intervention and allows short repetitive tasks