Classification of EEG Mental Patterns by Using Two Scalp Electrodes and Mahalanobis Distance-Based Classifiers

Abstract

Summary Objectives: In this paper, we explored the use of quadratic classifiers based on Mahalanobis distance to detect mental EEG patterns from a reduced set of scalp recording electrodes. Methods: Electrodes are placed in scalp centro-parietal zones (C3, P3, C4 and P4 positions of the international 10-20 system). A Mahalanobis distance classifier based on the use of full covariance matrix was used. Results: The quadratic classifier was able to detect EEG activity related to imagination of movement with an affordable accuracy (97% correct classification, on average) by using only C3 and C4 electrodes. Conclusions: Such a result is interesting for the use of Mahalanobis-based classifiers in the brain computer interface area.