Data Augmentation for Subject-Independent SSVEP-BCIs via Simultaneous Spatial-Energy Representation

OBJECTIVE: Data augmentation is important for enhancing subject-independent classification in deep learning (DL) approaches for steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) using electroencephalography (EEG). However, current augmentation techniques often inadequately exploit individual-specific style characteristics, limiting the model's robustness against inter-subject style variability. To tackle this problem, this study proposes a novel data augmentation method called Simultaneous Spatial-Energy Representation (SSER). METHODS: SSER employs singular value decomposition (SVD) to extract spatial and energy representations from EEG signals, effectively capturing style characteristics. These representations are independently mixed across source domains during signal reconstruction, generating novel domains that cover a broader range of styles. This strategy promotes the learning of domain-invariant features and enhances the model's robustness to style variability. RESULTS: Comprehensive experiments on public datasets demonstrate that SSER outperforms state-of-the-art data augmentation techniques and generalizes well across various DL models. Furthermore, self-collected offline and online experiments involving 30 subjects provide additional evidence of the method's effectiveness. CONCLUSION: By simultaneously manipulating spatial and energy representations, SSER offers a richer characterization of EEG signal style variability, leading to superior performance. SIGNIFICANCE: The proposed innovative data augmentation method advances subject-independent classification, facilitating the broader application of EEG-based BCIs in real-world scenarios.