In-ear electrode EEG for practical SSVEP BCI

Steady State Visual Evoked Potential (SSVEP) methods for brain–computer interfaces (BCI) are popular due to higher information transfer rate and easier setup with minimal training, compared to alternative methods. With precisely generated visual stimulus frequency, it is possible to translate brain signals into external actions or signals. Traditionally, SSVEP data is collected from the occipital region using electrodes with or without gel, normally mounted on a head cap. In this experimental study, we develop an in-ear electrode to collect SSVEP data for four different flicker frequencies and compare against occipital scalp electrode data. Data from five participants demonstrates the feasibility of in-ear electrode based SSVEP, significantly enhancing the practicability of wearable BCI applications.