Enhancing motor imagery EEG signal decoding through machine learning: A systematic review of recent progress

Abstract

This systematic literature review explores the intersection of neuroscience and deep learning in the context of decoding motor imagery Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals to enhance the quality of life for individuals with motor disabilities. Currently, the most used non-invasive method for measuring brain activity is the EEG, due to its high temporal resolution, user-friendliness, and safety. A Brain Computer Interface (BCI) framework can be made using these signals which can provide a new communication channel to people that are suffering from motor disabilities or other neurological disorders. However, implementing EEG-based BCI systems in real-world scenarios for motor imagery recognition presents challenges, primarily due to the inherent variability among individuals and low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of EEG signals. To assist researchers in navigating this complex problem, a comprehensive review article is presented, summarizing the key findings from relevant studies since 2017. This review primarily focuses on the datasets, preprocessing methods, feature extraction techniques, and deep learning models employed by various researchers. This review aims to contribute valuable insights and serve as a resource for researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts interested in the combination of neuroscience and deep learning, ultimately hoping to contribute to advancements that bridge the gap between the human mind and machine interfaces.

Keywords: Brain computer interface; Deep learning; EEG; Machine learning; Motor imagery.