Recent functional near infrared spectroscopy based brain computer interface systems: Developments, applications and challenges

Abstract

Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) based Brain Computer Interface (BCI) systems have grown in popularity in the last years, and has shown itself as a useful tool in developing portable and convenient BCI systems. The purpose of this review paper is to highlight the recent developments, applications, and challenges that research groups have achieved in the field of fNIRS-BCI. We will show how fNIRS can be paired with another modality (i.e. EEG, fTCD, etc.) to drastically improve classification accuracy. From there, we will discuss the recent achievements in classification techniques researchers have had with fNIRS or a combined fNIRS modality. Finally, we will look at how fNIRS-BCI systems are used to enhance human-robot interactions and assistive technologies. Throughout our review paper, we will note challenges groups have had with their studies, as to provide a framework for future research topics for the fNIRS-BCI community. © 2014, Korean Society of Medical and Biological Engineering and Springer.