Brain-Computer Interfacing [In the Spotlight]

This paper appears in: Signal Processing Magazine, IEEE

Issue Date : July 2010

Abstract
Recently, CNN reported on the future of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). BCIs are devices that
process a user's brain signals to allow direct communication and interaction with the
environment. BCIs bypass the normal neuromuscular output pathways and rely on digital signal
processing and machine learning to translate brain signals to action (Figure 1). Historically, BCIs
were developed with biomedical applications in mind, such as restoring communication in
completely paralyzed individuals and replacing lost motor function. More recent applications
have targeted nondisabled individuals by exploring the use of BCIs as a novel input device for
entertainment and gaming. The task of the BCI is to identify and predict behaviorally induced
changes or "cognitive states" in a user's brain signals. Brain signals are recorded either
noninvasively from electrodes placed on the scalp [electroencephalogram (EEG)] or invasively
from electrodes placed on the surface of or inside the brain. BCIs based on these recording
techniques have allowed healthy and disabled individuals to control a variety of devices. In this
article, we will describe different challenges and proposed solutions for noninvasive brain-
computer interfacing.