Evaluating the ergonomics of BCI devices for research and experimentation

Abstract

The use of brain computer interface (BCI) devices in research and applications has exploded in recent years. Applications such as lie detectors that use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to video games controlled using electroencephalography (EEG) are currently in use. These developments, coupled with the emergence of inexpensive commercial BCI headsets, such as the Emotiv EPOC ( http://emotiv.com/index.php ) and the Neurosky MindWave, have also highlighted the need of performing basic ergonomics research since such devices have usability issues, such as comfort during prolonged use, and reduced performance for individuals with common physical attributes, such as long or coarse hair. This paper examines the feasibility of using consumer BCIs in scientific research. In particular, we compare user comfort, experiment preparation time, signal reliability and ease of use in light of individual differences among subjects for two commercially available hardware devices, the Emotiv EPOC and the Neurosky MindWave. Based on these results, we suggest some basic considerations for selecting a commercial BCI for research and experimentation. STATEMENT OF RELEVANCE: Despite increased usage, few studies have examined the usability of commercial BCI hardware. This study assesses usability and experimentation factors of two commercial BCI models, for the purpose of creating basic guidelines for increased usability. Finding that more sensors can be less comfortable and accurate than devices with fewer sensors.

Test-retest reliability of a single-channel, wireless EEG system

“…Similar to the adult group, the eyes-closed condition again provided the highest number of valid epochs, while the n-back condition again had more invalid Although set-up of the ThinkGear system can be achieved in as little as 30 sec (Ekandem et al, 2012), strategies to address successful completion (Paasch et al, 2012) can still be encouraged, to facilitate the tolerance of youth populations for repeated neurophysiological assessment (Johnstone et al, 2012).…”

“…ThinkGear consists of proprietary firmware within a single channel, dry electrode device, which claims ease of use and portability in a research-grade apparatus (Ekandem et al, 2012). …”

Towards Brain-Computer Interface Control of a 6-Degree-of-Freedom Robotic Arm Using Dry EEG Electrodes

“…The selection of a commercially available BCI headset depended on the number of sensing channels, signal quality, price, and ease of use [9]. The ability of electrodes to perform dry was set as an important requirement.…”

Cognitive Load Assessment from EEG and Peripheral Biosignals for the Design of Visually Impaired Mobility Aids

“…Given the practical constraints involved in monitoring brain electrical activity in the wild, EPOC+ was chosen because it provides a good compromise between performance (i.e., number of channels and scientific validity of the acquired EEG signals) and usability (i.e., portability, preparation time, and user comfort) with respect to other commercial wireless EEG systems [21][22][23][24].…”

“…The brain activity is characterized by rhythmic patterns across distinct frequency bands, the definition of which can vary somewhat among studies. Here we analyzed EEG in six bands, namely, delta (0.5-4 Hz), theta (4-7 Hz), alpha 1 (7-10 Hz), alpha 2 (10-13 Hz), beta (13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30), and gamma (30-60 Hz). Beta activity is associated with psychological and physical stress, whereas theta and alpha 1 (i.e., lower alpha) frequencies reflect response inhibition and attentional demands such as phasic alertness [29].…”