Determination of the time-frequency features for impulse components in EEG signals

Purpose: Accurately identifying the timing and frequency characteristics of impulse components in EEG signals is essential but limited by the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Inspired by the visual system's ability to identify objects and their locations, we propose a new method that integrates a visual system model with wavelet analysis to calculate both time and frequency features of local impulses in EEG signals. Methods: We develop a mathematical model based on invariant pattern recognition by the visual system, combined with wavelet analysis using Krawtchouk functions as the mother wavelet. Results: Our method precisely identifies the localization and frequency characteristics of the impulse components in EEG signals. Tested on task-related EEG data, it accurately detected blink components (0.5 to 1 Hz) and separated muscle artifacts (16 Hz). It also identified muscle response durations (298 ms) within the 1 to 31 Hz range in emotional reaction studies, offering insights into both individual and typical emotional responses. We further illustrated how the new method circumvents the uncertainty principle in low-frequency wavelet analysis. Conclusion: Unlike classical wavelet analysis, our method provides spectral characteristics of EEG impulses invariant to time shifts, improving the identification and classification of EEG components.