A cross-dataset adaptive domain selection transfer learning framework for motor imagery-based brain-computer interfaces

Abstract Objective . In brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) that utilize motor imagery (MI), minimizing calibration time has become increasingly critical for real-world applications. Recently, transfer learning (TL) has been shown to effectively reduce the calibration time in MI-BCIs. However, variations in data distribution among subjects can significantly influence the performance of TL in MI-BCIs. Approach. We propose a cross-dataset adaptive domain selection transfer learning framework that integrates domain selection, data alignment, and an enhanced common spatial pattern (CSP) algorithm. Our approach uses a huge dataset of 109 subjects as the source domain. We begin by identifying non-BCI illiterate subjects from this huge dataset, then determine the source domain subjects most closely aligned with the target subjects using maximum mean discrepancy. After undergoing Euclidean alignment processing, features are extracted by multiple composite CSP. The final classification is carried out using the support vector machine. Main results. Our findings indicate that the proposed technique outperforms existing methods, achieving classification accuracies of 75.05% and 76.82% in two cross-dataset experiments, respectively. Significance. By reducing the need for extensive training data, yet maintaining high accuracy, our method optimizes the practical implementation of MI-BCIs.