BCI Wheelchair Control Using Expert System Classifying EEG Signals Based on Power Spectrum Estimation and Nervous Tics Detection

Abstract

The constantly developing biomedical engineering field and newer and more advanced BCI (brain–computer interface) systems require their designers to constantly develop and search for various innovative methods used in their creation. In response to practical requirements and the possibility of using the system in real conditions, the authors propose an advanced solution using EEG (electroencephalography) signal analysis. A BCI system design approach using artificial intelligence for the advanced analysis of signals containing facial expressions as control commands was used. The signals were burdened with numerous artifacts caused by simulated nervous tics. The proposed expert system consisted of two neural networks. The first one allowed for the analysis of one-second samples of EEG signals from selected electrodes on the basis of power spectrum estimation waveforms. Thus, it was possible to generate an appropriate control signal as a result of appropriate facial expression commands. The second of the neural networks detected the appearance and type of nervous tics in the signal. Additionally, the participants were affected by interference such as street and TV or radio sound, Wi-Fi and radio waves. The system designed in such a way is adapted to the requirements of the everyday life of people with disabilities, in particular those in wheelchairs, whose control is based on BCI technology.