Single-Channel, Steady State Visually Evoked Potential-based Brain Computer Interface: a Proof of Principle for Biomedical Daily Use

Abstract

In this work, the authors propose a low-cost, portable, and comfortable, single-channel Brain Computer Interface, based on Steady-State Visual-Evoked Potential with open source hardware and low computational cost algorithms, for daily use. The system is proved to be capable of overcoming the following state-of-the-art drawbacks: (i) the number of electrodes: a high number of electrodes increases the quality but is less comfortable for the user; (ii) the quality of the signal recorded in the scalp area of interest, typically covered with hair. At this aim, the authors propose: (i) the adoption of a single differential channel acquisition, in this case only three electrodes are used for the recording of the brain signal; (ii) the use of spring loaded pins electrodes in scalp area covered with hair to improve the contact and, as a consequence, the quality of recorded signal. The system as a whole is then tested on a group of people in order to validate its performance in terms of reached accuracy.