A Framework for Brain-Computer Interfaces Closed-Loop Communication Systems

This paper is a review of the brain-computer interface technology and its latest applications on human subjects. The brain-computer interface is an emerging technology that utilizes neurophysiological signals produced through the electrode interactions initiated inside the human brain to control external devices. Research on connecting human brains via brain-computer interfaces has been progressing with a lack of details on the technology used in closed-loop communication, which often leads to rumours, scepticism, and misunderstanding. We aim to alleviate these issues and to this end, we first analyze descriptions of brain-computer interface technology. We then explain the operational mechanisms of existing brain-computer interfaces and how they can perform direct brain-to-brain communication between human subjects separated in different locations. Findings from the literature motivate us to present a closed-loop communication framework that enables the combination of brain-computer interfaces and telecommunication channels such as vocal and text messages. Finally, we discuss the implications and limitations underlying the theoretical findings. The contribution of this paper is to provide a better understanding of emerging technology to support communication and innovation.