Evaluation of an Electroencephalographic-Based Control Device

Electroencephalographic (EEG)-based control devices are one of several emerging technologies that will provide operators with a variety of new hands-free control options. In general, EEG-based control translates brain electrical activity into a control signal. The system evaluated in this study uses the steady-state visual evoked response for system control. The luminance of selectable items on a computer display was modulated at different frequencies. The operator's choice between these items was identified by detecting which frequency pattern was dominant in the visual evoked brain activity. One objective of this study was to characterize the performance of this human-machine system. In addition, two candidate control frequencies were evaluated. The results are encouraging. Participants were able to use this form of EEG-based control and performance was stable. Participants averaged over 90 percent correct selections. Future development will focus on increasing the speed and accuracy with which this novel hands-free controller can be utilized.