Non-invasive Brain-Computer Interfaces: Enhanced Gaming and Robotic Control

Abstract

Abstract. The performance of non-invasive electroencephalogram-based (EEG) brain-computer interfacing (BCI) has improved significantly in recent years. However, remaining challenges include the non-stationarity and the low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the EEG, which limit the bandwidth and hence the available applications. In this paper, we review ongoing research in our labs and introduce novel concepts and applications. First, we present an enhancement of the 3-class self-paced Graz-BCI that allows interaction with the massive multiplayer online role playing game World of Warcraft. Second, we report on the long-term stability and robustness of detection of oscillatory components modulated by distinct mental tasks. Third, we describe a scalable, adaptive learning framework, which allows users to teach the BCI new skills on-the-fly. Using this hierarchical BCI, we successfully train and control a humanoid robot in a virtual home environment.

A user interface for assistive grasping

“…The role of this system is to add flexibility to a more general assistive robotics environment such as that proposed in [18]. In future work we will integrate with such a system to produce a full assistive robotics environment for use on a mobile manipulator.…”

A hybrid ERD/SSVEP BCI for continuous simultaneous two dimensional cursor control

“…One approach involves asynchronous BCIs to control two dimensions via ERD (Scherer et al, 2008(Scherer et al, , 2011. Users can move an avatar left or right via imagined hand movement or move forward via imagined foot movement.…”

BCI-Based Navigation in Virtual and Real Environments

“…The work in [12] uses SMR to make an avatar turn right or left in a video game, whilst other movements are controlled via a keyboard. The popular game World of Warcraft has been adapted to be controlled via a BCI system [16].…”