Scroll test method, program, and system, and image generation method, program, and test method therefor

Abstract

A Stepup test method in which an evaluation of a subject is shown on the basis of line-of-sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in a test image (S102 to S105). The test image has a question region in which a question for the subject is displayed, and an answer region in which a plurality of options are displayed, the plurality of options including one or more non-positive-solution options and positive-solution options for the subject to select to answer the question through a line of sight. The one or more non-positive solution options include interference options in which the subject is likely to be induced due to the Stepup effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a Stroop test method, a Stroop test program, a Stroop test system, a Stroop test image generation method, a Stroop test image generation program, and a test method for performing a Stroop test. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a cognitive dysfunction diagnostic device that aims to combine simplicity, low cost, objectivity, quantification, and versatility.

[0003] (Prior art literature)

[0004] (Patent Document)

[0005] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 098173 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The Stroop test is known in the past. The Stroop test is a neuropsychological test that utilizes the Stroop effect and is used clinically as a test for evaluating the function of the frontal lobe of the brain, including the attention function. Here, the Stroop effect is a phenomenon in which two or more pieces of information that a person sees at the same time, such as the meaning of a word and the color of a word, interfere with each other. It is known that when a certain piece of information and information that contradicts the information are presented to a person at the same time, the person's reaction time until the information is selected becomes longer or the wrong information is selected, and this abnormality increases (Stroop, 1935).

[0008] As a representative method of the Stroop test, a method is adopted in which the test subject answers questions about a character string indicating the name of a color or a color (ink) recorded on a test questionnaire orally or in writing. In the questioning, for example, the test subject is instructed to answer the color of the ink prompted or the meaning of the character string indicating the name of the prompted color. In this way, the tester calculates the evaluation by measuring the number of answers within the time limit, the number of wrong answers, and the time required to end the test in the Stroop test.

[0009] However, the problem in such a Stroop test is that the tester needs to have a certain degree of professional knowledge and training, and also needs to prepare a special test questionnaire, etc., which makes it difficult to implement the test due to the complexity of the preparation work generated by the test. In addition, there is another problem in such a Stroop test that the answers and scores given orally vary from person to person, which may affect the reliability of the evaluation. In other words, what is needed in such a Stroop test is that the test can be easily performed and quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained.

[0010] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a Stroop test method and the like which can be easily tested and easily obtain quantitative evaluation.

[0011] Means for solving problems

[0012] The Stroop test method involved in one embodiment of the present invention is a Stroop test method that shows the evaluation of the subject based on the line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image. The test image has: a question area that displays the question for the subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by answering the question through sight and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be induced to due to the Stroop effect.

[0013] The Stroop test program involved in one embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to perform the following processing: obtaining line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of a subject in a test image, generating evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the obtained line of sight position information, and outputting the generated evaluation information. The test image has: a question area, which displays a question for the subject; and an answer area, which displays a plurality of options, wherein the plurality of options include a correct answer option for the subject to choose by answering the question through sight and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be induced to due to the Stroop effect.

[0014] A Stroop test system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of a subject in a test image; an evaluation unit that generates evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the line of sight position information acquired by the acquisition unit; and an output unit that outputs the evaluation information generated by the evaluation unit. The test image has: a question area that displays a question for the subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by answering the question through line of sight and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be induced to do due to the Stroop effect.

[0015] In a Stroop test image generation method according to one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of test images are generated in a manner that satisfies specified conditions. Each of the plurality of test images has: a question area that displays a question for a subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, wherein the plurality of options include a correct answer option for the subject to choose by visually answering the question and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be misled by due to the Stroop effect. The specified conditions include: (1) the question area is located in the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the question area, and (3) the interference options in the test image are different from the correct answer options in the test image and the correct answer options in the test image that will be presented to the subject next.

[0016] A Stroop test image generation program according to one embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to execute a process of generating a plurality of test images in a manner that satisfies specified conditions. Each of the plurality of test images has: a question area that displays a question for a subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by visually answering the question and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be misled by due to the Stroop effect. The specified conditions include: (1) the question area is located in the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the question area, and (3) the interference options in the test image are different from the correct answer options in the test image and the correct answer options in the test image that will be presented to the subject next.

[0017] A test method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a test method for evaluating a cognitive function of a subject based on line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in a test image, wherein the test image is presented to the subject within a prescribed time. The prescribed time is determined based on the difficulty of the test or the age of the subject.

[0018] Effects of the Invention

[0019] The Stroop test method of the present invention has the advantages of being able to perform the test simply and easily to obtain a quantitative evaluation, and also has the advantage of being able to objectively and quantitatively measure the degree of indecision of the subject regarding the wrong option, which cannot be evaluated in the existing Stroop test. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1A : is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a Stroop test system in an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 1B : is a block diagram showing another configuration example of the Stroop test system in the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2A 1 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a Stroop test system in an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 2B FIG. 1 is a diagram showing another appearance example of the Stroop test system in the embodiment.

[0024] Figure 3 An example of storage content of the storage unit in the embodiment is shown.

[0025] Figure 4 An example of the first image is shown.

[0026] Figure 5 An example of the second image is shown.

[0027] Figure 6 An example of the third image is shown.

[0028] Figure 7 An example of the fourth image is shown.

[0029] Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the Stroop test system in the embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 9 An example of a timeline of images displayed on a display device in a Stroop test in an embodiment is shown.

[0031] Fig.10 The diagram shows a display example of a test image and a correct answer image.

[0032] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a display example of switching images.

[0033] Fig.12 An example of evaluation information of a subject who has no impairment in cognitive functions including attention is shown.

[0034] Fig.13 An example of evaluation information of a subject having impairment in cognitive functions including attention is shown.

[0035] Fig.14 : is a graph showing the correlation between the evaluation of the subject by the Stroop test system in the embodiment and the evaluation of the subject by the conventional Stroop test.

[0036] Fig.15 : is a flowchart showing an example of a Stroop test image generation method in an embodiment.

[0037] Fig.16 FIG. 1 is an example of a test image group for the Stroop task generated by the Stroop test image generation method according to the embodiment.

[0038] Fig.17 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a test image group for a Stroop control task generated by the Stroop test image generation method according to the embodiment.

[0039] Fig.18 FIG. 1 is an example of a test image group for a reverse Stroop task generated by the Stroop test image generation method according to the embodiment.

[0040] Fig.19 FIG. 1 is an example of a test image group for a reverse Stroop control task generated by the Stroop test image generation method according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] [1. Knowledge that forms the basis of the present invention]

[0042] First, the focus of the inventors will be described below.

[0043] In the past, cognitive function tests (neuropsychological tests) conducted in the form of interviews were used for the assessment / diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction and dementia. In such cognitive function tests, the tester asks the subject questions for assessing cognitive function, and scores the content of the answers to the questions in an oral or written manner to calculate the subject's cognitive function score. In such cognitive function tests, there is a problem that the test takes time. For example, even the simplest Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE: Mini-Mental State Examination) takes about 15 to 30 minutes. In addition, in such cognitive function tests, there is a problem that the psychological pressure on the subject is very high. In addition, in such cognitive function tests, there is a problem that the proficiency of the tester and the difference in subjective scoring criteria often affect the calculated cognitive function scores, and these reasons can lead to large deviations in cognitive function scores.

[0044] In order to solve these problems, the inventors proposed the use of the cognitive dysfunction diagnostic device of Patent Document 1.

[0045] However, attention and judgment are functions that are mainly responsible for by the frontal lobe of the brain, and are also the most basic and important cognitive functions required for other cognitive functions such as memory or visual spatial cognition to work normally. Cognitive function here is a general term for brain functions such as attention, judgment, language ability, memory, spatial cognition, etc. Although the decrease of attention and judgment is more common as a phenomenon that occurs as fatigue deepens or age increases, it also appears as a symptom in various brain diseases headed by dementia. Thus, the assessment of attention and judgment is utilized as an important index in the diagnosis or assessment of fatigue state, brain age growth change or brain disease.

[0046] Here, as described in "Problems to be Solved by the Invention", the Stroop test is known as a test for evaluating the functions of the frontal lobe of the brain, including the attention function. As existing Stroop tests, for example, there are "New Stroop Test I / II (Hakoda, Watanabe)", "Modified Stroop Test (Perret, 1974), and "Position Stroop Test" which is a subject in Computer Adaptive Testing (CAT). Thus, what is needed in the Stroop test is that the test can be easily performed and quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained. In addition, in the existing Stroop test, it is difficult to quantitatively measure the degree of indecision of the subject caused by the Stroop effect, and what is needed for this is a method that can be objectively and quantitatively measured.

[0047] In view of the above circumstances, the inventors have created the present invention. Specifically, the inventors have found that by combining the gaze detection technology with the test image for the Stroop test, the frontal lobe function of the brain, such as the attention and judgment of the subject, can be simply and quantitatively evaluated.

[0048] Hereinafter, the Stroop test method, the Stroop test program, the Stroop test system, the Stroop test image generation method, and the Stroop test image generation program in the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] In addition, the embodiments to be described below are all general or specific examples. The values, shapes, materials, components, configuration positions of components, connection methods, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are all examples, and their purpose is not to limit the scope of the requirements. In addition, the components of the following embodiments that are not recorded in the independent technical solutions of the highest concept will be described as arbitrary components.

[0050] In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not a strict illustration. In addition, in each figure, the same components are given the same reference numerals.

[0051] [2. Composition of the Stroop test system]

[0052] Figure 1A is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a Stroop test system in an embodiment. Figure 2A 1 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a Stroop test system in an embodiment.

[0053] like Figure 1A As shown, the Stroop test system 1 includes a display device 10, an imaging device 20, and a PC (Personal Computer) 30. Here, the Stroop test system 1 is configured such that a commercially available general PC 30 is used as a main control device, and the display device 10 and the imaging device 20 are further added.

[0054] The display device 10 is a flat-panel display having a display surface 11, and displays the test image for the Stroop test on the display surface 11. That is, in the embodiment, the test image is displayed on the display device 10 and is presented to the subject. Figure 2AAs shown, in order to allow the test image to be seen by the subject, the display device 10 is also a large liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display that is convenient for the elderly to see. In addition, the display device 10 can be a display for a personal computer or a television receiver. In addition, the display device 10 can be composed of a screen as a display surface 11 and a projector, instead of a flat-panel display.

[0055] The imaging device 20 is a module that can be mounted on the display unit 10 , and includes at least an imaging unit 21 for capturing an image of the subject's eyes and a light source unit 24 .

[0056] The camera unit 21 is a stereo camera having a camera 22 and a camera 23. The camera 22 and the camera 23 are, for example, infrared cameras. In other examples, the camera 22 and the camera 23 may be visible light cameras. Furthermore, the camera unit 21 may be a single camera instead of a stereo camera, or may be three or more cameras.

[0057] The light source unit 24 includes a light source 25 and a light source 26, and uses infrared rays as illumination light to illuminate the subject. The light source 25 and the light source 26 are each configured to have one or more infrared LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), for example. In other examples, the light source 25 and the light source 26 may each be configured to have one or more white LEDs. In addition, when the space where the subject is located is sufficiently bright, the camera device 20 may not include the light source unit 24. Furthermore, the camera device 20 may be installed on the upper part of the display device 10, or the camera 22 and the camera 23 may be installed separately on the left and right sides of the display device 10.

[0058] The PC 30 includes a processor 31, a storage unit 32, an input unit 33, a sound output unit 34, a display unit 35, an interface unit 36, a detection unit 37, a creation unit 38, and an evaluation unit 39. Figure 1A Among the functional blocks shown, the processor 31, the storage unit 32, the input unit 33, the sound output unit 34, the display unit 35, and the interface unit 36 ​​are constituted by general hardware and software of a commercially available computer. The other functional blocks, namely the detection unit 37, the production unit 38, and the evaluation unit 39, are components that are mainly realized by the processor 31 executing the Stroop test program in the embodiment.

[0059] The processor 31 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes a program stored in the storage unit 32 .

[0060] The storage unit 32 stores programs executed by the processor 31 and data processed by the processor 31. Furthermore, the storage unit 32 constitutes a database 315. The programs 310 stored in the storage unit 32 include not only various firmware, OS (Operating System), driver software and other software, but also the Stroop test program 311 and the Stroop test image generation program 312 in the embodiment. In addition, the data stored in the storage unit 32 include test image data 300, viewpoint data 313, and distribution map data 314.

[0061] In addition, the storage unit 32 includes a main memory or primary memory composed of a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like, an auxiliary memory or secondary memory composed of a HDD (Hard Disc Drive) device or an SSD (Solid State Drive) device, and a cache memory. That is, the storage unit 32 here is a general term for components having the function of storing programs and data.

[0062] Here, using Figure 3 An example of the storage content of the storage unit 32 will be described in detail. Figure 3 1 shows an example of the storage content of the storage unit 32 in the embodiment. The storage unit 32 in the figure stores test image data 300, a program 310, viewpoint data 313, and distribution map data 314. The program 310 includes a Stroop test program 311 and a Stroop test image generation program 312. Furthermore, the storage unit 32 includes a database 315.

[0063] The test image data 300 is a still image or a moving image prepared for the Stroop test. Furthermore, the test image data 300 is a collection of a plurality of image data including a first image data 301, a second image data 302, a third image data 303, and a fourth image data 304. Each of the plurality of image data is an image prepared for implementing the Stroop test. The first image data 301 is mainly image data related to the Stroop task, the second image data 302 is mainly image data related to the Stroop control task, the third image data 303 is mainly image data related to the reverse Stroop task, and the fourth image data is mainly image data related to the reverse Stroop control task.

[0064] The Stroop test program 311 is a program executed by a computer, i.e., PC 30, and causes the computer to perform the following processing: obtaining line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image for the Stroop test, generating evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the obtained line of sight position information, and outputting the generated evaluation information. In an embodiment, the Stroop test program 311 causes the computer to perform the following processing: displaying the test image for the Stroop test on the display surface 11; photographing the eyes of the subject by the camera unit 21; detecting the viewpoint of the subject in the display surface 11 in a time series manner based on the image obtained by the camera unit 21; making a distribution map showing the distribution of the detected viewpoints of the subject; generating evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the made distribution map; and displaying the generated evaluation information on the display unit 35.

[0065] Among them, the function of the detection unit 37 is that the PC 30 detects the viewpoint of the subject on the display surface 11 in a time series manner based on the image captured by the camera unit 21. And the function of the production unit 38 is that the PC 30 produces a distribution map showing the distribution of the detected viewpoints of the subject. And the function of the evaluation unit 39 is that the PC 30 generates evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the produced distribution map. And the function of the display unit 35 is that the PC 30 displays the generated evaluation information on the display unit 35.

[0066] The Stroop test image generation program 312 is a program executed by the computer PC 30, and causes the computer to generate a test image for the Stroop test. The Stroop test image generation program 312 will be described in detail in [8. Stroop test image generation method] described later.

[0067] As will be described later in the description of the detection unit 37 , the viewpoint data 313 is time-series data showing positions and times of viewpoints detected by the detection unit 37 , and is a set of coordinate data (x, y, t) including times.

[0068] As will be described later in the description of the creation unit 38 , the distribution graph data 314 is data created by the creation unit 38 , in which time-series viewpoints are sequentially plotted in real time on a two-dimensional plane according to viewpoint data, and shows the two-dimensional distribution of the subject's viewpoints.

[0069] The database 315 stores various data, etc. In addition, the database 315 may not be a part of the storage unit 32, but may be provided outside the storage unit 32. Furthermore, the database 315 may be connected via a network such as the Internet.

[0070] In addition, the storage unit 32 Figure 3In addition to the programs and data shown, diagnostic data showing the diagnosis results of the subject may be stored.

[0071] The input unit 33 includes, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc., and is used to receive operations from an operator.

[0072] The sound output unit 34 is, for example, a speaker, and is used to output sound.

[0073] The display unit 35 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays a test image on which a distribution chart for a user's (here, a test subject) monitor is superimposed, etc. The display unit 35 corresponds to an output unit that outputs the evaluation information generated by the evaluation unit 39 .

[0074] The interface unit 36 ​​has, for example, a function of connecting to the display device 10 and the camera device 20 via a cable for wired communication. The interface unit 36 ​​has, for example, an HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) interface and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface. In this case, the interface unit 36 ​​is connected to the display device 10 via an HDMI (registered trademark) cable, and is connected to the camera unit 21 and the light source unit 24 via a USB cable. In addition, the interface unit 36 ​​may also have, for example, a function of wirelessly communicating with the display device 10 and the camera device 20. In this case, the above-mentioned cables are not required.

[0075] The detection unit 37 detects the viewpoint of the subject on the display surface 11 in a time series manner based on the image captured by the camera unit 21. For example, the detection unit 37 detects the line of sight of the subject based on the image captured by the camera unit 21, and detects the coordinates of the point where the line of sight intersects with the display surface 11 as the position of the viewpoint of the subject on the display surface 11. The detection of the position of the viewpoint is performed periodically. As an example, the period can be specified between tens of ms and hundreds of ms, for example, 100 ms. The detection unit 37, for example, generates in real time a set of coordinate data (x, y, t) including time as viewpoint data representing the position of the viewpoint of the subject in a time series. Here, x and y are coordinates of a plane (for example, the display surface 11 or a diagnostic image), and t is time.

[0076] The creation unit 38 creates a distribution graph showing the distribution of the viewpoints of the subject detected by the detection unit 37. That is, the creation unit 38 can also be regarded as an "obtaining unit" that obtains the line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image. The distribution graph is, for example, a graph obtained by drawing marks (e.g., colored dots) corresponding to the above-mentioned coordinate data (x, y, t) on a two-dimensional plane, and superimposed in real time on the test image displayed on the display unit 35 of the PC 30. For example, the above-mentioned marks can also be displayed brighter when the viewpoint is the latest.

[0077] The evaluation unit 39 generates evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the distribution map of the subject produced by the production unit 38. In other words, the evaluation unit 39 generates evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the line of sight position information of the subject obtained by the acquisition unit. The evaluation information (in other words, the evaluation) includes, for example, information showing the degree to which the subject fixates on the correct answer option in the test image (here, the fixation rate of the correct answer option), information showing the degree to which the subject fixates on the distracting options in the test image (here, the fixation rate of the distracting options), and information showing the degree to which the subject fixates on the problem area in the test image (here, the fixation rate of the problem area). And in an embodiment, the distribution map of the subject itself is included in the evaluation information.

[0078] in addition, Figure 1A as well as Figure 2A The PC 30 shown may also be any one of a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or a desktop computer.

[0079] Next, another configuration example of the Stroop test system 1 will be described.

[0080] Figure 1B 2 is a block diagram showing another configuration example of the Stroop test system 1 in the embodiment. Figure 1B The Stroop test system 1 shown with Figure 1A Compared with the Stroop test system 1 shown in the figure, it is different in that it does not include the display device 10, the imaging device 20, the detection unit 37 and the creation unit 38, but further includes an acquisition unit 40. In the following, repeated description of the same points will be avoided, and the description will focus on the different points.

[0081] Figure 1A The display device 10, the imaging device 20, the detection unit 37, and the creation unit 38 in FIG. 3 correspond to an eye tracking configuration for creating distribution map data showing the distribution of the viewpoints of the subject with respect to the test image. Figure 1B The example of the structure for making the distribution map data is shown as follows: Figure 1AThe separation becomes a core structure for generating evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the gaze position information of the subject (here, distribution map data).

[0082] The acquisition unit 40 acquires the distribution map data created by an external device and stores it in the storage unit 32. The distribution map data is used by the evaluation unit 39. The acquisition unit 40 only needs to be able to acquire the distribution map data from at least an external device.

[0083] Furthermore, the external device only needs to have the function of producing a distribution map showing the distribution of the subject's viewpoints in time series by eye tracking, and the eye tracking method and the composition of producing the distribution map are not limited. Furthermore, the external device can be connected to the Stroop test system 1 by wired communication so that it can communicate, and can also be connected to the Stroop test system 1 by wireless communication so that it can communicate.

[0084] In addition, the Stroop test system 1 may not have Figure 2A The appearance of the device is not such a large display device 10, but can be configured as a smart device.

[0085] Figure 2B 1 is a diagram showing another appearance example of the Stroop test system 1. The Stroop test system 1 in this figure is a tablet-type smart device, which has a display device 10 and a camera unit 21, etc., which are similar to the Stroop test system 1 in terms of function. Figure 1A Same components.

[0086] Figure 2B The display device 10 is also used for Figure 2A The display device 10 and the display unit 35 of the PC 30. A touch screen is formed on the surface of the display surface 11.

[0087] The camera unit 21 is a front camera of the smart device. The camera unit 21 is used, for example, for eye tracking by detecting the position of the eye or the movement of the eye using face recognition technology. In this case, the light source unit 24 may not be provided. The image display for the subject is performed by the display device 10. In addition, according to the touch screen operation of the tester, the Stroop test program or the Stroop test image generation program is executed by the processor inside the tablet device. For example, the smart device implements the Stroop test by the subject interacting with the tester or by the tester showing the display device 10 to the subject.

[0088] The Stroop test system 1 as such an intelligent device may also be composed of a tablet terminal, a smart phone, or a laptop personal computer. Furthermore, the Stroop test program and the Stroop test image generation program are created as applications of these devices. Figure 2BThe Stroop test system 1 is functionally similar to Figure 1B The same composition of components.

[0089] [3. Test image]

[0090] Next, the test image used in the Stroop test system 1 of the embodiment is described. In the Stroop test of the embodiment, the test image is a rectangle. The following test is performed in the Stroop test of the embodiment: the first image p1 (refer to Figure 4 (a)) is given to the subject and the subject is given an answer; the second image p2 (reference Figure 5 (a)) is prompted to the subject and the subject is given an answer; the third image p3 (reference Figure 6 (a)) is presented to the subject and the subject is answered; and the fourth image p4 (reference Figure 7 (a) A test in which prompts are given to the subjects and answers are obtained.

[0091] exist Figures 4 to 7 In the figure, red is represented by solid line shading, blue is represented by dotted line shading, green is represented by dotted shading, and yellow is represented by diamond shading. Such color representation is also the same in the following figures.

[0092] Figure 4 An example of the first image p1 is shown. Figure 4 (a) shows the first image p1, Figure 4 (b) shows the correct answer image p10 for the first image p1. The first image p1 is a test image that is presented to the subject and used to obtain an answer for the Stroop task. The Stroop task is a task for confirming the influence of the Stroop effect on the subject, and in particular, a task for confirming the degree to which the subject is disturbed by text. The first image p1 includes a question area p11 and an answer area p12.

[0093] The question area p11 is an area where questions for the subject are displayed, and is located at the center of the first image p1 (ie, the test image). Figure 4 In the example shown in (a), the question area p11 displays a character string indicating the name of a color (here, "yellow") and a question sentence (here, "Please pay attention to the color of the ink used in this character string") asking about the color of the ink (here, blue) used in the character string. Thus, the character string indicating the name of the color is a different color from the color of the ink that is the correct answer.

[0094] The answer area p12 is an area that displays multiple options (here, 4 options p121 to p124) for the subject to choose to answer the question, and the multiple options are respectively located at multiple corners (here, 4 corners) of the first image p1 (i.e., the test image). The multiple options include a correct answer option that shows the correct answer to the subject's question, and one or more incorrect answer options that show the incorrect answer to the subject's question. In this way, the one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that may induce the subject due to the Stroop effect. In other words, the interference option is the option with the strongest interference with respect to the correct answer option among the one or more incorrect answer options.

[0095] This has the advantage that, by placing the question area in the center of the test image and placing the multiple options at multiple corners of the test image, when the subject looks at the question area and then casts his / her sight toward the options, the trajectory of the subject's sight is easily dispersed, so that the trajectory of the subject's sight toward the options is unlikely to overlap. This is of great significance in improving the accuracy of the subject's evaluation in the Stroop test method of the embodiment in which the fixation rate of each option is calculated based on sight information.

[0096] exist Figure 4 In the example shown in (a), the correct answer option is option p121, which is a character string of the color of the ink that gives the correct answer (here, "blue") and is located in the upper left corner of the first image p1. Figure 4 In the example shown in (a), at least one incorrect answer option is three options p122 to p124, and p122 to p124 are character strings indicating the colors of the incorrect inks (here, "red", "green", and "yellow"), respectively, and are located at three corners other than the upper left corner of the first image p1. Figure 4 In the example shown in (a), the distractor option is option p124, which is a character string indicating the name of the color in the problem area p11 (here, "yellow") and is located in the lower right corner of the first image p1. In other words, the correct answer option and the distractor option are located on the diagonal line sandwiching the problem area p11.

[0097] The advantage of the above is that by configuring the correct answer option and the interference option in this way, the correct answer option and the interference option can be clearly distinguished. Even if the subject's line of sight is deviated, it is easy to distinguish and detect whether the subject's line of sight is directed towards the correct answer option or the interference option.

[0098] The correct answer image p10 for the first image p1 is an image that prompts the subject with the correct answer to the Stroop task. Figure 4As shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , the correct answer image p10 includes the same question area p11 and the correct answer option (here, option p121 ) as the first image p1 . In the correct answer image p10 , the correct answer option may be highlighted by being surrounded by a thick line, for example.

[0099] Figure 5 An example of the second image p2 is shown. Figure 5 (a) shows the second image p2, Figure 5 (b) shows the correct answer image p20 for the second image p2. The second image p2 is a test image for being presented to the subject and obtaining an answer for the Stroop control task. The Stroop control task is a task for confirming whether the subject has the ability to answer questions in the Stroop task before presenting the Stroop task to the subject. Here, the Stroop control task is a task for confirming whether the subject can identify the color of ink. The second image p2 includes a question area p21 and an answer area p22.

[0100] The question area p21 is an area where questions for the subject are displayed, and is located at the center of the second image p2 (i.e., the test image). Figure 5 In the example shown in (a), displayed in the question area p21 is a rectangular area filled with the color of the ink that is the correct answer (blue in this case) and a question sentence (here "Please pay attention to the color of the ink") asking about the color of the ink (blue in this case) used in the rectangular area.

[0101] The answer area p22 is an area for displaying multiple options (here, the four options p221 to p224) for the subject to choose when answering the question, and the multiple options are respectively located at multiple corners (here, four corners) of the second image p2 (i.e., the test image). The multiple options include a correct answer option showing a correct answer to the subject's question and one or more incorrect answer options showing an incorrect answer to the subject's question. In addition, in the Stroop control task, the one or more incorrect answer options do not include interference options.

[0102] exist Figure 5 In the example shown in (a) of FIG. 1 , the correct answer option is option p223, which is a character string indicating the color of the ink of the correct answer (here, "blue") and is located in the upper right corner of the second image p2. Figure 5 In the example shown in (a), one or more incorrect answer options are the three options p221, p222, and p224, and p221, p222, and p224 are character strings indicating the colors of the incorrect answers of ink (here "green", "red", and "yellow") and are located at the three corners other than the upper right corner of the second image p2.

[0103] The correct answer image p20 for the second image p2 is an image that prompts the subject with the correct answer to the Stroop control task, such as Figure 5 As shown in (b), the correct answer image p20 includes the same question area p21 and the correct answer option (here, option p223) as the second image p2. In the correct answer image p20, the correct answer option may be highlighted by being surrounded by a thick line, for example.

[0104] Figure 6 An example of the third image p3 is shown. Figure 6 (a) shows the third image p3, Figure 6 (b) shows the correct answer image for the third image p3. The third image p3 is a test image for being prompted to the subject and obtaining an answer for the reverse Stroop task. The reverse Stroop task is a task for confirming the influence of the Stroop effect on the subject, and in particular, a task for confirming the degree to which the subject is disturbed by the color. The third image p3 includes a question area p31 and an answer area p32.

[0105] The question area p31 is an area where questions for the subject are displayed, and is located in the center of the third image p3 (i.e., the test image). Figure 6 In the example shown in (a), the question area p31 displays a character string indicating the name of a color (here, "red") and a question sentence (here, "Please pay attention to the color represented by this word") asking about the meaning of the character string (here, red). Furthermore, the character string indicating the name of the color is expressed in a color of ink (here, blue) different from the color of the ink of the correct answer.

[0106] The answer area p32 is an area for displaying multiple options (here, the four options p321 to p324) for the subject to choose when answering the question, and the multiple options are respectively located at multiple corners (here, four corners) of the third image p3 (i.e., the test image). The multiple options include a correct answer option showing the correct answer to the subject's question and one or more incorrect answer options showing the incorrect answer to the subject's question. In addition, the one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that may induce the subject due to the Stroop effect.

[0107] exist Figure 6 In the example shown in (a), the correct answer option is option p322, which is a rectangular area filled with the color of the correct answer ink (red in this case) and is located at the lower left corner of the third image p3. Figure 6In the example shown in (a), at least one non-correct answer option is p321, p323, and p324. p321, p323, and p324 are rectangular areas filled with non-correct ink colors (blue, yellow, and green in this case), and are located at the three corners except the lower left corner of the third image p3. Figure 6 In the example shown in (a), the distraction option is option p321, which is a rectangular area filled with the color (blue in this case) used for the character string indicating the color name in the problem area p31 and is located in the upper left corner of the third image p3. Figure 6 In the example shown in (a) of FIG. 1 , the correct answer option and the distraction option are not located on the diagonal line sandwiching the problem area p31 , but they may be located on the diagonal line sandwiching the problem area p31 .

[0108] The correct answer image p30 for the third image p3 is an image that prompts the subject with the correct answer to the reverse Stroop task, such as Figure 6 As shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , the correct answer image p30 includes the same question area p31 and the correct answer option (here, option p322) as the third image p3. In the correct answer image p30, the correct answer option may be highlighted by being surrounded by a thick line, for example.

[0109] Figure 7 An example of the fourth image p4 is shown. Figure 7 (a) shows the fourth image p4, Figure 7 (b) shows the correct answer image p40 for the 4th image p4. The 4th image p4 is a test image for being presented to the subject and obtaining an answer for the reverse Stroop control task. The reverse Stroop control task is a task for confirming whether the subject has the ability to answer the questions in the reverse Stroop task before the reverse Stroop task is presented to the subject. Here, the reverse Stroop control task is a task for confirming whether the subject can recognize the meaning represented by the character string. The 4th image p4 includes a question area p41 and an answer area p42.

[0110] The question area p41 is an area where questions for the subject are displayed, and is located in the center of the fourth image p4 (i.e., the test image). Figure 7 In the example shown in (a), the question area p41 displays a character string indicating the name of a color (here, "red") and a question sentence (here, "Please pay attention to the color represented by this word") asking about the meaning of the character string (here, red). In addition, the color of the ink of the character string indicating the name of the color is a color of ink (here, black) different from the color of ink that the subject may choose.

[0111] The answer area p42 is an area for displaying multiple options (here, the four options p421 to p424) for the subject to choose when answering the question, and the multiple options are respectively located at multiple corners (here, four corners) of the fourth image p4 (i.e., the test image). The multiple options include a correct answer option showing a correct answer to the subject's question and one or more incorrect answer options showing an incorrect answer to the subject's question. In addition, in the reverse Stroop control task, the one or more incorrect answer options do not include interference options.

[0112] exist Figure 7 In the example shown in (a), the correct answer option is option p423, which is a rectangular area filled with the color of the correct answer ink (red in this case) and is located in the upper right corner of the fourth image p4. Figure 7 In the example shown in (a), one or more non-correct answer options are the three options p421, p422, and p424, and p421, p422, and p424 are rectangular areas filled with the colors of non-correct answers (green, blue, and yellow in this case) and are located in the three corners other than the upper right corner of the fourth image p4.

[0113] The correct answer image p40 for the fourth image p4 is an image that prompts the subject with the correct answer to the reverse Stroop control task, such as Figure 7 As shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , the correct answer image p40 includes the same question area p41 and the correct answer option (here, option p423) as the fourth image p4. In the correct answer image p40, the correct answer option may be highlighted by being surrounded by a thick line, for example.

[0114] [4. Work]

[0115] Next, use Figure 8 An operation example of the Stroop test system 1 according to the embodiment, that is, an example of the Stroop test method according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the Stroop test system 1 in the embodiment. Figure 8 The Stroop test process shown in FIG. 1 is mainly implemented by executing the Stroop test program 311 by the PC 30. Figure 8 Prior to the Stroop test processing shown, a correction process for viewpoint detection is performed.

[0116] First, the PC 30 performs a process of displaying a test image for the Stroop test on the display device 10 (S101). Next, the PC 30 obtains the eye-line position information of the subject with respect to the test image displayed on the display device 10 (S102). In step S102, for example Figure 1AThe PC 30 shown in the figure detects the position of the viewpoint of the subject in the test image by the detection unit 37, and generates a distribution map of the subject for the test image by the generation unit 38, thereby obtaining the line of sight position information of the subject. Figure 1B The PC 30 shown obtains the gaze position information of the subject from an external device via the obtaining unit 40 .

[0117] In this way, PC30 generates the evaluation information of the subject based on the obtained line of sight position information (in other words, the generated distribution map) (S103). In step S103, PC30 sets the question area and the answer area in the test image as the region of interest (ROI), and generates the evaluation information by calculating the fixation rate in the region of interest. Here, the fixation rate is a parameter that represents the ratio of the number of viewpoints of the subject in the region of interest to the total number of viewpoints of the subject during the time when the test image is displayed. Here, PC30 calculates the fixation rate of the question area, the fixation rate of the correct answer option, and the fixation rate of the distractor option.

[0118] Thereafter, the PC 30 repeatedly executes the above-mentioned steps S101 to S103 until all the test images are displayed on the display device 10 ("No" in S104). That is, when there are multiple test images, the PC 30 sequentially displays the test images on the display device 10 at respective prescribed times, and executes the above-mentioned steps S101 to S103 each time the test images are displayed on the display device 10. In this way, the PC 30 displays all the test images on the display device 10 ("Yes" in S104), and displays the generated evaluation information on the display unit 35, thereby outputting the evaluation information (S105). Alternatively, step S105 may be executed each time the evaluation information is generated in step S103.

[0119] [5. Specific example of Stroop test]

[0120] Here, using Figures 9 to 11 A specific example of the Stroop test in the embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 An example of a timeline of images displayed on the display device 10 in the Stroop test in the embodiment is shown. Fig.10 The diagram shows a display example of a test image and a correct answer image. Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a display example of switching images.

[0121] like Fig. 9As shown, PC 30 first displays start images p51 and p52 for notifying the subject that the Stroop test is about to start on display device 10 in sequence. Start image p51 includes a character string located in the center thereof for notifying the subject that the Stroop test is about to start (here, "Take the test from now on"). In addition, start image p52 includes a character string located in the center thereof for explaining the method of answering in the Stroop test (here, "Please find the correct answer and stare at it"). The display time of start image p51 is, for example, about 2.5 seconds, and the display time of start image p52 is, for example, about 2.5 seconds.

[0122] Next, the PC 30 displays the test image (the fourth image p4) for the reverse Stroop control task on the display device 10. Here, the PC 30 regards the fourth image p4 and the correct answer image p40 as one problem group, and displays a plurality of problem groups (for example, four problem groups) in sequence on the display device 10. The display time of one problem group is, for example, about 8 seconds or 10 seconds. Here, when one problem group is displayed on the display device 10, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, PC30 displays a gradually appearing image p8, a test image (here, the second image p2), a correct answer image (here, the correct answer image p20), and a gradually disappearing image p9 in a gradually disappearing form on the display device 10 in sequence. The display time of the gradually appearing image p8 is, for example, about 0.5 seconds, the display time of the test image is, for example, about 5 seconds or 7 seconds, the display time of the correct answer image is, for example, about 2 seconds, and the display time of the gradually disappearing image p9 is, for example, about 0.5 seconds. In addition, when PC30 displays one question group on the display device 10, it is not necessary to display the gradually appearing image p8 and the gradually disappearing image p9 on the display device 10.

[0123] Next, the PC 30 displays a switching image p6 for notifying the subject that the task of the Stroop test will be switched on the display device 10. The switching image p6 includes a character string (here, "the type of question will be changed") located in the center thereof for notifying the subject that the task of the Stroop test will be switched. Fig.11 As shown, the PC 30 sequentially displays a gradually appearing image p61, a switching image p6, and a gradually disappearing image p62 on the display device 10. The display time of the gradually appearing image p61 is, for example, about 0.5 seconds, the display time of the switching image p6 is, for example, about 2 seconds, and the display time of the gradually disappearing image p62 is, for example, about 0.5 seconds. In addition, when displaying the switching image p6 on the display device 10, the PC 30 may not display the gradually appearing image p61 and the gradually disappearing image p62 on the display device 10.

[0124] Next, PC30 displays the test image (the third image p3) for the reverse Stroop task on the display device 10. Here, PC30 regards the third image p3 and the correct answer image p30 as one problem group, and displays a plurality of problem groups (for example, four problem groups) in sequence on the display device 10. The method of displaying the problem groups here is the same as the method of displaying the problem groups in the reverse Stroop control task. Then, PC30 displays the switching image p6 on the display device 10. The method of displaying the switching image p6 here is the same as the method of displaying the switching image p6 described above.

[0125] Next, PC30 displays the test image (second image p2) for the Stroop control task on the display device 10. Here, PC30 regards the second image p2 and the correct answer image p20 as one problem group, and displays a plurality of problem groups (for example, four problem groups) in sequence on the display device 10. The method of displaying the problem group here is the same as the method of displaying the problem group in the reverse Stroop control task. Then, PC30 displays the switching image p6 on the display device 10. The method of displaying the switching image p6 here is the same as the method of displaying the switching image p6 described above.

[0126] Next, PC30 displays the test image (first image p1) for the Stroop task on the display device 10. Here, PC30 regards the first image p1 and the correct answer image p10 as one problem group, and displays a plurality of problem groups (for example, four problem groups) in sequence on the display device 10. The method of displaying the problem groups here is the same as the method of displaying the problem groups in the reverse Stroop control task. Then, PC30 displays the switching image p6 on the display device 10. The method of displaying the switching image p6 here is the same as the method of displaying the switching image p6 described above.

[0127] Finally, the PC 30 displays an end image p7 for notifying the subject that the Stroop test is about to end on the display device 10. The end image p7 includes a character string (here, "The test is over. Thank you for your hard work") located in the center thereof for notifying the subject that the Stroop test is about to end. The end image p7 is displayed for, for example, about 2 seconds.

[0128] However, in Fig. 9In the example shown, although the PC 30 displays the test images on the display device 10 in the order of the test image for the reverse Stroop control task (the fourth image p4), the test image for the reverse Stroop task (the third image p3), the test image for the Stroop control task (the second image p2), and the test image for the Stroop task (the first image p1), the order is not limited. For example, the PC 30 may also display the test images on the display device 10 in the order of the test image for the Stroop control task (the second image p2), the test image for the Stroop task (the first image p1), the test image for the reverse Stroop control task (the fourth image p4), and the test image for the reverse Stroop task (the third image p3).

[0129] And, in Fig. 9 In the example shown, the PC 30 may omit display of the test image for the Stroop control task (the second image p2 ) and the test image for the reverse Stroop control task (the fourth image p4 ).

[0130] And, in Fig. 9 In the example shown, when the PC 30 displays one question group on the display device 10 , the display of the correct answer image may be omitted.

[0131] [6. Empirical data]

[0132] Below, using Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 The Stroop test system 1 in the embodiment, that is, empirical data of the Stroop test method in the embodiment, will be described. Fig.12 An example of evaluation information of a subject who has no impairment in cognitive functions including attention (ie, a healthy subject) is shown. Fig.13 An example of evaluation information of a subject who has impairment in cognitive functions including attention (ie, a subject with cognitive impairment) is shown.

[0133] Fig.12 (a) and Fig.13 (a) of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 all indicate that the inspection result (evaluation information) for the Stroop control task is displayed on the display unit 35. Specifically, in Fig.12 (a) and Fig.13 In (a), the second image p2 is displayed on the display unit 35. In addition, the distribution diagram of the subject is superimposed on the second image p2. Fig.12 (a) and Fig.13 Although not shown in (a) of FIG. 1 , the subject's fixation rate of the correct answer option is superimposed and displayed on the second image p2 .

[0134] Fig.12 (b) and Fig.13 (b) and (c) all indicate that the inspection result (evaluation information) for the Stroop task is displayed on the display unit 35. Specifically, Fig.12 (b) and Fig.13 In (b), the first image p1 is displayed on the display unit 35. In addition, the distribution diagram of the subject is superimposed on the first image p1. Fig.12 (b) and Fig.13 Although not shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , the subject's fixation rate on the correct answer option and the subject's fixation rate on the distractor option may be displayed superimposed on the first image p1 .

[0135] exist Fig.12 as well as Fig.13 In the distribution map of the subject superimposed on the test image (here, the first image p1 or the second image p2), the heat map information is represented by the density of the dots. That is, the darker the density of the dots, the more concentrated the viewpoints are.

[0136] like Fig.12 (a) and Fig.13 As shown in (a), both the healthy subjects and the cognitive dysfunction subjects focused their attention on the correct answer option (here, option p221), that is, they chose the correct answer to the Stroop control task. In addition, the fixation rate of the correct answer option was 91.3% for the healthy subjects and 90.9% for the cognitive dysfunction subjects, and both of them found the correct answer to the Stroop control task without hesitation. Here, the fact that the subjects (here, the healthy subjects and the cognitive dysfunction subjects) found the correct answer to the task without hesitation is quantitatively expressed as a high fixation rate, which is important for the evaluation of subjects in the Stroop test. Therefore, by referring to Fig.12 (a) and Fig.13 From the evaluation information shown in (a), it can be seen that both healthy people and people with cognitive impairment can correctly identify the color of ink.

[0137] like Fig.12 As shown in (b), the healthy subjects focused their attention on the correct answer (here, option p123), that is, they chose the correct answer to the Stroop task. In addition, the healthy subjects did not look at the distractor option (here, option p122) at all. When looking at the fixation rate, the fixation rate of the correct answer option for the healthy subjects was 95.2%, and the fixation rate of the distractor option was 0%. The healthy subjects found the correct answer to the Stroop task without hesitation. Therefore, by referring to Fig.12From the evaluation information shown in (b), it can be seen that healthy people are almost not affected by the Stroop effect, that is, they are almost not disturbed by the text. Here, the fact that the subjects (here, healthy people) are almost not disturbed by the text is quantitatively expressed as a low fixation rate on the distracting options, which is important for the evaluation of the subjects in the Stroop test.

[0138] However, if Fig.13 As shown in (b), the cognitively impaired people hardly fixated on the correct answer, that is, they did not choose the correct answer for the Stroop task. In addition, the cognitively impaired people focused their attention on the distractor. When looking at the fixation rate, the fixation rate of the cognitively impaired people on the correct answer was 0.8%, and the fixation rate on the distractor was 91.8%. Therefore, by referring to Fig.13 From the evaluation information shown in (b), it can be known that the cognitively impaired person is strongly affected by the Stroop effect, that is, is strongly disturbed by the text. Here, the fact that the subject (here, the cognitively impaired person) is strongly disturbed by the text is quantitatively expressed as a high fixation rate on the distracting option, which is important for the evaluation of the subject in the Stroop test.

[0139] And, if Fig.12 (b) and Fig.13 As shown in (b), when focusing on the question area (here, question area p11), the person with cognitive dysfunction focuses on the character string indicating the question (here, the underlined character string "ink color"), while the person with cognitive dysfunction focuses on the character string indicating the color name (here, the character string "green" in a larger font). This also shows that the person with cognitive dysfunction is strongly affected by the Stroop effect, that is, is strongly disturbed by the text.

[0140] As mentioned above, by utilizing assessment information, thus can quantitatively assess the attention and judgment of the subject.Specifically, in assessment information, the degree of the correct answer in 1 question and the influence degree of the Stroop effect are quantitatively represented as continuous variables.For example, in existing Stroop test, the assessment obtained by 1 question, because only if it is the correct answer, then it is 1 point, if it is the non-correct answer, then it is 0 points such discrete binary value, therefore in order to assess the degree of the correct answer and the influence degree of the Stroop effect, then it is necessary to implement multiple problems to the subject.In contrast, in the above-mentioned assessment information, because the degree of the correct answer and the influence degree of the Stroop effect can be quantitatively represented as continuous variables, compared with the existing Stroop test, the number of problems implemented to the subject can be reduced, and then the time required for the Stroop test can be shortened.And, in the above-mentioned assessment information, not only can the correct answer in 1 question also can the content of interference (non-correct answer) and its degree be objectively and quantitatively evaluated.

[0141] Next, use Fig.14 The comparison results of the Stroop test system 1 in the embodiment, i.e., the Stroop test method (Eye-tracking Stroop test) in the embodiment and the existing Stroop test are described. Fig.14 In (a) of FIG. 1 , the vertical axis shows the fixation rate of the subject on the correct answer option in the Stroop test of the embodiment, and the horizontal axis shows the score of the subject in the conventional Stroop test. Fig.14 In (b), the vertical axis shows the fixation rate of the subjects on the distractor options in the Stroop test of the embodiment, and the horizontal axis shows the scores of the subjects in the existing Stroop test. Fig.14 In (c), the vertical axis shows the fixation rate of the subject in the Stroop test of the embodiment on the problem area, and the horizontal axis shows the score of the subject in the conventional Stroop test. Fig.14 In each of (a) to (c), the dashed straight line represents a regression line, "R" represents a correlation coefficient, and "P" represents a P value.

[0142] Here, there are 30 subjects, including 20 healthy subjects and 10 cognitively impaired subjects. In addition, in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the display time of the test image is 7 seconds, the display time of the correct answer image is 1 second, and the display time of the switching image is 1 second. In addition, the result of the Stroop test in the embodiment shows the result of the Stroop task for a total of 4 questions, and the result of the existing Stroop test shows the result of the Stroop task for a total of 60 questions in the new Stroop test I. In this way, the score of the subject in the existing Stroop test represents the number of correct answers in a total of 60 questions.

[0143] like Fig.14 As shown in (a) of FIG. 1 , regarding the fixation rate of the subject on the correct answer option in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the higher the score of the subject in the existing Stroop test, the higher the fixation rate on the correct answer option, which is positively correlated with the score of the subject in the existing Stroop test. Fig.14 As shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , regarding the fixation rate of the subjects on the distractor options in the Stroop test of the embodiment, if the score of the subjects in the existing Stroop test is higher, the fixation rate on the distractor options is lower, and the two are negatively correlated. Fig.14 As shown in (c) of FIG. 1 , regarding the fixation rate of the subject on the problem area in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the higher the score of the subject in the conventional Stroop test, the lower the fixation rate on the problem area, and the two are negatively correlated.

[0144] As described above, it can be considered that the Stroop test in the embodiment has the same effectiveness as the existing Stroop test even if the number of questions presented to the subject in the test is small. In addition, in the Stroop test in the embodiment, parameters such as the fixation rate on the problem area that cannot be evaluated in the existing Stroop test can also be evaluated.

[0145] [7. Advantages, etc.]

[0146] Hereinafter, advantages of the Stroop test system 1 according to the embodiment, that is, the Stroop test method according to the embodiment, will be described.

[0147] First, the problems of the existing Stroop test are explained again. In the oral or written answers in the existing Stroop test, only the evaluation of the correct or incorrect answer to each task of the subject can be recorded. In other words, only the evaluation expressed as a qualitative discrete value such as 0 or 1 can be recorded. In other words, in the existing Stroop test, it is not possible to record the information such as what kind of thinking process the subject went through to get the correct or incorrect answer or the evaluation expressed as a continuous value.

[0148] Here, although the information of what kind of thinking process is used to obtain a correct answer or an incorrect answer is essential information reflecting the degree of information interference in the Stroop effect, in the existing Stroop test based on the existing questionnaire method, it can only be indirectly estimated based on the required time or the ratio of the number of correct answers to the number of incorrect answers. Therefore, in order to obtain a correct evaluation in the existing Stroop test, a large number of questions need to be administered to the subject, which increases the burden on the subject and the tester.

[0149] In contrast, in the Stroop test system 1 in the embodiment, i.e., the Stroop test method in the embodiment, by utilizing the sight line detection technology, the sight line position information showing the position of the sight line of the subject in the test image used for the Stroop test is obtained, and the evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject is generated according to the obtained sight line position information. Thus, in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the thinking process of the subject during the display of the test image (how the respective hesitation degree is for the correct answer option and the non-correct answer option) can be reflected on the degree of attention for each option, making it possible to express the Stroop effect as an objective continuous value for the first time. In this way, in the Stroop test of the embodiment, since the information such as the attention rate of the correct answer option or the attention rate of the interference option can be obtained simultaneously from one task, the influence brought by the Stroop effect can be quantitatively evaluated with a small number of questions. Therefore, in the Stroop test of the embodiment, compared with the existing Stroop test, it is possible to reduce the burden on the subject and the tester.

[0150] Furthermore, in the conventional Stroop test in which answers are given in writing, how to allocate the answer time for each question is left to the subject, whereas in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the test image is forcibly switched to the next test image at each prescribed time. Therefore, the Stroop test of the embodiment has the advantage that it is also possible to quantitatively evaluate whether the subject can select the correct answer option within the prescribed time, i.e., within the answer time allocated to each question.

[0151] As described above, the Stroop test system 1 of the embodiment, i.e., the Stroop test method, has the advantage that the test can be performed easily and quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained. Thus, if the Stroop effect can be evaluated more easily and quantitatively by the Stroop test in the embodiment, it can be used as a simple test method for cognitive dysfunction headed by dementia, and is expected to be widely used in clinical or health care fields.

[0152] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the test image is a rectangle, and the multiple options in the answer area are located at multiple corners (i.e., 4 corners). Thus, the advantage in the embodiment is that since the distance from the problem area to each option is equal, that is, the position of each option is equal relative to the problem area, it is easy to evaluate the subject more correctly. Here, the distance from the problem area to each option will affect the time for the subject's line of sight to reach the option from the problem area, and even the gaze rate within a limited time after arrival. For example, the time for the subject's line of sight to reach the correct answer option is indirectly added to the gaze rate of the correct answer option, and the time depends on the distance from the problem area to the correct answer option. Furthermore, it is considered that there is also the following situation, that is, not only the subject with obstacles in cognitive functions including attention, but also even the healthy person may have personal habits in terms of line of sight, so that the movement of the line of sight in the horizontal direction and the movement in the vertical direction will deviate. Thus, the advantage is that by making the distance from the problem area to each option equal, it is easy to fairly evaluate the gaze rate of each option.

[0153] Another advantage is that by configuring the options as described above, even if the accuracy of the subject's line of sight detected by eye tracking is low, it is difficult to make an incorrect evaluation of the answer given by the subject's line of sight because the distance between the question area and each option is increased as much as possible.

[0154] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the correct answer option and the distractor option are located on a diagonal line sandwiching the problem area. Thus, in an embodiment, the advantage is that the possibility of the subject unconsciously (accidentally) looking at the other option when the subject directs his / her gaze toward the correct answer option and the distractor option can be reduced. In an embodiment, the advantage is that, for example, when the subject directs his / her gaze toward the distractor option, since the subject intentionally directs his / her gaze toward the distractor option because he / she thinks of the distractor option as the correct answer, it is easier to assess the situation in which the subject is induced by the distractor option by reducing the possibility of the subject unconsciously directing his / her gaze toward the correct answer option.

[0155] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the evaluation information includes information showing the degree to which the subject fixates on the correct answer option (here, the fixation rate of the correct answer option). Thus, in an embodiment, the advantage is that, when the subject is repeatedly prompted with the same type of questions for one task, the improvement of the fixation rate of the subject on the correct answer option can be grasped. Furthermore, in an embodiment, the advantage is that, by focusing on the fixation rate of the subject on the correct answer option in the question immediately after the task prompted to the subject is switched, it is easy to evaluate the influence of the Stroop effect on the subject with high precision. This is because the influence of the Stroop effect on the subject is the strongest in the question immediately after the task is switched, that is, the interference from text or color is the strongest.

[0156] However, in the existing Stroop test, the practice questions are prompted to the subject every time the task is switched, while in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the practice questions are not prompted to the subject. Therefore, the embodiment also has the advantage that, compared with the case where the practice questions are prompted to the subject, it is easier to evaluate the influence of the Stroop effect on the subject with high accuracy by focusing on the questions that follow the task switching. In addition, even in the Stroop test of the embodiment, the practice questions can be prompted to the subject every time the task is switched, just like the existing Stroop test.

[0157] Furthermore, in an embodiment, the evaluation information includes information showing the degree to which the subject fixates on the distracting options (here, the fixation rate of the distracting options). Thus, in an embodiment, the advantage is that the degree to which the subject is induced by the distracting options, i.e., the degree to which the subject is affected by the Stroop effect, can be quantified. Thus, in an embodiment, the advantage is that, since the above two pieces of information are included in the evaluation information, it is easy to evaluate the attention paid to correctly understanding the problem and the attention paid to the correct answer based on the understanding of the problem.

[0158] [8. Stroop test image generation method]

[0159] Next, the Stroop test image generation method in the embodiment will be described. The Stroop test image generation method is a method of generating a test image for the Stroop test. The test image generated by the Stroop test image generation method is stored in the storage unit 32 as test image data 300 .

[0160] Fig.15 : is a flowchart showing an example of a Stroop test image generation method in an embodiment. Fig.15The Stroop test image generation process shown is a process implemented by executing the Stroop test image generation program 312 by the PC 30. Here, the Stroop test image generation method generates multiple groups of test images for the Stroop task, multiple groups of test images for the Stroop control task, multiple groups of test images for the reverse Stroop task, and multiple groups of test images for the reverse Stroop control task. Each of the multiple groups includes multiple questions, in other words, includes multiple test images. Fig.15 The Stroop test image generation method shown is a basic example of generating a test image group for one of these tasks.

[0161] First, PC30 determines the correct answer option for each question (S201). Next, PC30 determines the distractor option for each question (S202). In step S202, PC30 determines the distractor option for each question in a manner different from the correct answer option and the correct answer option for the next question. Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option in the test image for each question (S203). In step S203, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for each question in a manner opposite to the position of the correct answer option for the previous question in the up-down direction. Next, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option in the test image for each question (S204). In step S204, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for each question in a manner opposite to the position of the correct answer option in the up-down direction. In this way, PC30 determines the position of the remaining non-correct answer options in the test image for each question (S205). Accordingly, a test image group for one task is generated.

[0162] The following is a specific example of the method for generating the Stroop test image in the embodiment. Figures 16 to 19 An example of test image data is shown for explanation. Fig.16 An example of test image data for the Stroop task generated by the Stroop test image generation method in the embodiment is shown. Fig.16 In the example, "ink color (correct answer)" indicates the correct answer option, and "text (interference)" indicates the interference option. Fig.17 An example of test image data for a Stroop control task generated by the Stroop test image generation method according to the embodiment is shown. Fig.18 An example of test image data for the reverse Stroop task generated by the Stroop test image generation method in the embodiment is shown. Fig.18 In the example, “text (correct answer)” indicates the correct answer option, and “ink color (interference)” indicates the interference option. Fig.19An example of test image data for a reverse Stroop control task generated by the Stroop test image generation method according to the embodiment is shown.

[0163] Each test image data includes 2 series (here, series A and series B). Furthermore, each series includes 4 groups. Furthermore, each group includes 4 questions (i.e., test images). Therefore, the Stroop test image generation method involved in the embodiment herein generates a total of 32 test images for one task, and a total of 128 test images for four tasks. In addition, the number of series, the number of groups included in one series, and the number of questions (i.e., test images) included in one group may also be arbitrary.

[0164] Below, an example of generating a test image group for the Stroop task is described. First, PC30 generates a test image group for the first group of the Stroop task. PC30 determines initial parameters, that is, determines the correct answer option for the first question (here, the color of the ink of the correct answer). PC30 determines the initial parameters, for example, by accepting the input of the initial parameters by the operator at the input unit 33. In addition, PC30 can also randomly determine the initial parameters by itself. Next, PC30 alternately determines the correct answer option for the second question, the correct answer option for the third question, and the correct answer option for the fourth question in a manner such that the number of characters in the correct answer option becomes one of 2 characters or 3 characters.

[0165] Next, PC30 determines the distractor options for each question. Here, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the distractor options for each question in a manner that is different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option, different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option for the next question, and basically different from the number of words of the correct answer option. In addition, if there is no ink color that satisfies the third condition, PC30 may determine the color of the ink of the distractor options to be the same number of words as the correct answer option.

[0166] Next, PC30 determines the position of each option in the test image for each question. First, PC30 randomly determines the position of the correct answer option for the first question. Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer options for the second and subsequent questions in a manner that is on either the left or right side of the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option for the previous question in the up-down direction and does not overlap with the position of the correct answer options for other questions in the same group. In addition, if possible, PC30 arranges the incorrect answer options of ink colors with a different number of words from the correct answer options next to the correct answer options in the left-right direction in a manner that does not overlap with the incorrect answer options in the previous question.

[0167] Furthermore, PC 30 determines the position of the distractor option for each question so that it is on either side of the left or right side opposite to the position of the correct answer option in the vertical direction and does not overlap with the position of the distractor option of other questions in the same group. In this way, PC 30 generates the first group of test images for the Stroop task.

[0168] Next, PC30 generates a test image group for the second group of the Stroop task. First, PC30 determines the correct answer options for each question. PC30 determines the correct answer option for the first question in a manner that it does not appear as a correct answer option in at least the previous question and the previous previous question, and does not repeat with the correct answer option for the first question of the previous group. Next, PC30 determines the correct answer option for the second question in a manner that it does not appear as a correct answer option in at least the previous question and the previous previous question, and does not repeat with the correct answer option for the first question. Next, PC30 determines the correct answer option for the third question and the correct answer option for the fourth question in a manner that the arrangement order of the correct answer options for the third question and the correct answer options for the fourth question in the previous group does not repeat, respectively.

[0169] Next, PC30 determines the distractor options for each question. Here, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the distractor options for each question in a manner that is different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option, different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option for the next question, and basically different from the number of words of the correct answer option. In addition, if there is no ink color that satisfies the third condition, PC30 may determine the color of the ink of the distractor options to be the same number of words as the correct answer option.

[0170] Next, PC30 determines the position of each option in the test image for each question. Here, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the first question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the first question in the previous group (group 1). Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the second question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the second question in the previous group (group 1). Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the third question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the third question in the previous group (group 1). In this way, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the fourth question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the fourth question in the previous group (group 1). In other words, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for each question to be a position on the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option for the previous question in the up and down direction. The "previous question" mentioned here is equivalent to the fourth question in the previous group in the case of the previous question of the first question. Furthermore, if possible, the PC 30 arranges an inaccurate answer option of ink color with a different number of characters from the correct answer option beside the correct answer option in the left-right direction so as not to overlap with the inaccurate answer option in the previous question.

[0171] Furthermore, PC30 determines the position of the distractor options for each question in a manner that the position of the distractor options is on either side of the left or right side opposite to the position of the correct answer option in the up-down direction and does not overlap with the position of the distractor options for the same first question of the previous group. For example, PC30 determines the position of the distractor options for the first question in a manner that does not overlap with the position of the distractor options for the first question of the first group. In this way, PC30 generates a test image group for the second group of the Stroop task.

[0172] Next, PC30 generates a test image group for the third group of the Stroop task. First, PC30 determines the correct answer options for each question. PC30 determines the correct answer option for the first question as the correct answer option for the first question of the first group. Next, PC30 determines the correct answer option for the second question in a manner that does not appear as a correct answer option in at least the previous question and the previous previous question, and does not overlap with the correct answer option for the second question of the first group. Next, PC30 determines the correct answer option for the third question as the color of the same number of words as the correct answer option for the second question. In this way, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the correct answer option for the fourth question as the color of the ink that has not been used in the same group.

[0173] Next, PC30 determines the distractor options for each question. Here, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the distractor options for each question in a manner different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option and different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option for the next question. Furthermore, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the same number of words as the correct answer option for the distractor options of the first question. In addition, if there is no ink color that satisfies the third condition, PC30 may also determine the color of the ink of the same number of words as the correct answer option as the color of the ink of the distractor options.

[0174] Next, PC30 determines the position of each option in the test image for each question. Here, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the first question in a manner that is opposite to the position of the correct answer option for the first question in the up-down direction and does not overlap with the position of the fourth question in the previous group (the second group). Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the second question to be opposite to the position of the correct answer option for the first question in the up-down direction and the same position on the left and right. Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the third question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the first question. In other words, the position is the position opposite to the position of the correct answer option for the second question in the up-down direction. In this way, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the fourth question to be a position that has not been used in the same group. In addition, if possible, PC30 arranges the non-correct answer option of the ink color with a different number of words from the correct answer option next to the left and right direction of the correct answer option in a manner that does not overlap with the non-correct answer option in the previous question.

[0175] Furthermore, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the first question in a manner that the position is on either side of the left or right side opposite to the position of the correct answer option in the up-down direction and does not overlap with the position of the distractor option for the fourth question of the second group. Next, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the second question to be on the diagonal line of the test image and on the opposite side of the correct answer option across the problem area. Next, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the third question to be next to the position of the distractor option for the first question in the left-right direction. In this way, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the fourth question to be a position that has not been used in the same group. In this way, PC30 generates a test image group for the third group of the Stroop task.

[0176] Next, PC30 generates a test image group for the fourth group of the Stroop task. First, PC30 determines the correct answer options for each question. PC30 determines the correct answer option for the first question in a manner that it does not appear as a correct answer option in at least the previous question and the previous previous question, and does not repeat with the correct answer option for the first question of the previous group. Next, PC30 determines the correct answer option for the second question in a manner that it does not appear as a correct answer option in at least the previous question and the previous previous question, and does not repeat with the correct answer option for the first question. Next, PC30 determines the correct answer option for the third question and the correct answer option for the fourth question in a manner that the arrangement order of the correct answer options for the third question and the correct answer options for the fourth question in the previous group does not repeat, respectively.

[0177] Next, PC30 determines the distractor options for each question. Here, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the distractor options for each question in a manner different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option and different from the color of the ink of the correct answer option for the next question. Furthermore, PC30 determines the color of the ink of the same number of words as the correct answer option for the distractor options of the first question. In addition, if there is no ink color that satisfies the third condition, PC30 may also determine the color of the ink of the same number of words as the correct answer option as the color of the ink of the distractor options.

[0178] Next, PC30 determines the position of each option in the test image for each question. Here, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the first question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the first question in the previous group (the third group). Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the second question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the second question in the previous group (the third group). Next, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the third question to be next to the left and right direction of the position of the correct answer option for the second question. In this way, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for the fourth question to be a position that has not been used in the same group. In other words, PC30 determines the position of the correct answer option for each question to be a position on the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option for the previous question in the up and down direction. In addition, if possible, PC30 arranges the non-correct answer option of the ink color with a different number of words from the correct answer option next to the correct answer option in the left and right direction in a manner that does not overlap with the non-correct answer option in the previous question.

[0179] Furthermore, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the first question in a manner that is either left or right of the opposite side to the position of the correct answer option in the up-down direction, and does not overlap with the position of the distractor option for the first question of the previous group (the third group). Next, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the second question in a manner that is not overlapped with the position of the distractor option for the second question of the previous group (the third group). Next, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the third question in a manner that is either left or right of the opposite side to the position of the correct answer option in the up-down direction, and does not overlap with the position of the distractor option for the first question. In this way, PC30 determines the position of the distractor option for the fourth question to be a position that has not been used in the same group. In this way, PC30 generates a test image group for the fourth group of the Stroop task.

[0180] Next, an example of generating a test image group for the Stroop control task is described. Based on the generated test image group for the Stroop task, the PC 30 replaces the character string indicating the color of the ink of each option with the rectangular area filled with the color of the ink. In this way, the PC 30 generates the first to fourth test image groups for the Stroop control task.

[0181] Next, an example of generating a test image group for the reverse Stroop task is described. Based on the generated test image group for the Stroop task, PC30 replaces the "ink color (correct answer)" column of the task with "text (correct answer)", and while converting the name of the ink color into black text, it also replaces the "text (interference)" column of the task with "ink color (interference)", and converts the name of the ink color into Chinese characters representing various colors. In this way, PC30 assigns each option a background color that matches the name of the ink color. In this way, PC30 generates the test image groups of the first to fourth groups for the reverse Stroop task. In addition, in the Stroop test, the text in the options will not be displayed on the display device 10.

[0182] Next, an example of generating a test image group for the reverse Stroop control task is described. The PC 30 deletes the "ink color (interference)" in the task based on the generated test image group for the reverse Stroop task. In this way, the PC 30 generates the first to fourth test image groups for the reverse Stroop control task.

[0183] In addition, when using a test image group for any task in the Stroop test, PC30 uses it in a manner that does not repeat the pattern of questions in other tasks, such as using a series different from the series used in other tasks, or using a group different from the groups used in other tasks, or using the questions in reverse order, etc.

[0184] The advantages of the Stroop test image generation method in the embodiment are described below. The problem existing in the existing Stroop test is that the questions prompted to the subject are fixed, so when the Stroop test is repeatedly implemented on the subject, the Stroop test may lose its effectiveness because the subject remembers the questions and answers. In contrast, in the Stroop test image generation method in the embodiment, a test image group for the Stroop test can be randomly generated according to a prescribed rule. The advantage thus possessed is that, if the Stroop test image generation method in the embodiment is utilized, even when the Stroop test is repeatedly implemented on the subject, the Stroop test is not likely to lose its effectiveness because the subject will not remember the questions and answers.

[0185] (Other Embodiments)

[0186] The Stroop test system and the Stroop test method, as well as the Stroop test image generation method of the present invention are described above based on the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments. Without departing from the gist of the present invention, various modifications that can be thought of by those skilled in the art are implemented in the present embodiment to obtain the method, or other methods constructed by combining some of the constituent elements in the embodiments are all included in the scope of the present invention.

[0187] In the above embodiment, the correct answer option and the distractor option may not be located on a diagonal line. For example, when a plurality of options are located in a cross shape with the problem area sandwiched between them, the correct answer option and the distractor option may be located on any straight line forming the cross.

[0188] In the above embodiment, the multiple options in the answer area do not need to be located at multiple corners, but only need to be located around the question area. For example, when the test image is circular, the multiple options may be located at equal intervals on the circumference surrounding the question area.

[0189] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the question area may not be located at the center of the test image. For example, the question area may be located in the upper half of the test image, and the answer area may be located in the lower half.

[0190] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the test image is not limited to being a rectangle, and may be, for example, a polygon other than a rectangle or a circle.

[0191] In the above-mentioned embodiment, although the interval, i.e., the prescribed time, at which the test image is displayed on the display device 10 is fixed, it is not limited thereto. For example, the prescribed time may be determined according to the difficulty of the Stroop test or the age of the subject. In other words, the prescribed time may also change according to the difference of the subjects. For example, the prescribed time may be set shorter when the subject is a young person, and longer when the subject is an elderly person. And for example, the prescribed time may be set shorter when the difficulty of the Stroop test is high, and longer when the difficulty is low. Therefore, the advantage is that by making the prescribed time variable, it is easy to implement a suitable Stroop test according to each subject, and it is expected to improve the accuracy of the Stroop test.

[0192] Here, the degree of difficulty of the Stroop test to be accepted by the subject can be determined, for example, based on the fixation rate of the correct answer option and the fixation rate of the problem area in each test when the subject accepts multiple Stroop tests of different predetermined time periods. For example, if the fixation rate of the correct answer option and the fixation rate of the problem area in each test are high, the difficulty of the next Stroop test is increased. And, for example, if the fixation rate of the correct answer option and the fixation rate of the problem area in each test are low, the difficulty of the next Stroop test is reduced.

[0193] However, regarding the difficulty of the Stroop test, the difficulty can be changed even if the prescribed time is not changed. For example, when the evaluation information is generated by the evaluation unit 39, by making the time as the evaluation object in the distribution diagram shorter than the prescribed time, the same state as the situation where the prescribed time is shortened can be achieved in a simulated manner, that is, the state where the difficulty of the Stroop test is improved can be achieved. Therefore, the advantage is that, in this case, even if the Stroop test with increased difficulty such as shortening the prescribed time is not re-implemented on the subject, the subject can be evaluated in the same manner as the situation where the Stroop test with increased difficulty is implemented.

[0194] In addition, the method of changing the prescribed time according to the difficulty of the test or the age of the subject is not limited to the Stroop test, but can also be applied to other eye tracking tests. That is, the test method is a test method for evaluating the cognitive function of the subject based on the line of sight position information showing the position of the subject's line of sight in the test image, and can also be a method of presenting the test image to the subject within a prescribed time. In this way, the prescribed time can also be determined according to the difficulty of the test or the age of the subject. In addition, in this test method, multiple test images can be presented to the subject in sequence, or one test image can be presented to the subject.

[0195] The Stroop test in the above-described embodiment can also be applied to, for example, the "Position Stroop Test". In this case, as long as Chinese characters such as "up", "middle", and "down" are randomly displayed one by one at the upper, middle, and lower parts of the problem area of the test image, and Chinese characters representing the correct options and incorrect options such as "up", "middle", and "down" are displayed in the answer area. In this way, as long as the evaluation unit 39 evaluates whether the subject can be distracted by the meaning of the Chinese characters and fixate on the option showing the position of the Chinese characters.

[0196] In the above-described embodiment, although the test image is presented to the subject by being displayed on the display device 10, it is not limited thereto. For example, it may be that the test image is presented to the subject by being shown on a piece of paper. In this case, the trajectory of the subject's gaze in the test image shown on the piece of paper can also be obtained by eye tracking.

[0197] In the above-described embodiment, the Stroop test image generation method may be at least the following method. That is, the Stroop test image generation method generates a plurality of test images at least in a manner that satisfies a specified condition. Each of the plurality of test images has: a problem area that displays a problem for the subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct option for the subject to select by gaze to answer the problem and one or more incorrect options. Among the one or more incorrect options, there are interference options that the subject may be induced by the Stroop effect. The specified conditions include: (1) the problem area is located at the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the problem area, and (3) the interference options in the test image are different from the correct option in the test image and the correct option in the test image to be presented to the subject next.

[0198] (Summary)

[0199] As described above, in the Stroop test method of the first mode, an evaluation of the subject is shown based on the gaze position information indicating the position of the subject's gaze in the test image (S102 to S105). The test image has: a problem area that displays a problem for the subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct option for the subject to select by gaze to answer the problem and one or more incorrect options. Among the one or more incorrect options, there are interference options that the subject may be induced by the Stroop effect.

[0200] The advantages thereof are that the test can be easily performed and a quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained.

[0201] In the second embodiment of the Stroop test method, based on the first embodiment, a character string showing the name of a color different from the color of the correct answer and a question sentence asking about the color used in the character string are displayed in the question area p11. The correct answer option (option p121) is a character string showing the color of the correct answer. The distractor option (option p124) is a character string showing the name of the color in the question area p11.

[0202] This has the advantage that the test on the Stroop task can be easily performed and a quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained.

[0203] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the third mode, based on the first mode, a character string showing the name of a color represented by a color different from the color of the correct answer and a question sentence asking about the meaning of the character string are displayed in the question area p31. The correct answer option (option p322) is an area filled with the color of the correct answer. The distraction option (option p321) is an area filled with the color used by the character string showing the name of the color in the question area p31.

[0204] This has the advantage that the test on the reverse Stroop task can be easily performed and a quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained.

[0205] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the fourth aspect, based on any one of the first to third aspects, the question area is located at the center of the test image, and the answer area is located around the question area.

[0206] The advantage of this is that when the subject's gaze moves toward each option after fixating on the question area, the trajectory of the subject's gaze tends to spread out, and the trajectories of the subject's gaze toward each option are not likely to overlap.

[0207] Furthermore, in the fifth aspect of the Stroop test method, based on the fourth aspect, the test image is rectangular, and the plurality of options in the answer area are located at the corners of the test image.

[0208] The advantage of this is that the trajectories of the subjects' gazes directed toward the various options are less likely to overlap.

[0209] Furthermore, in the sixth form of the Stroop test method, based on the fourth form, the correct answer option and the distractor option are located on the diagonal line sandwiching the problem area.

[0210] The advantage of this is that the correct answer option and the interference option can be clearly distinguished. Even if the subject's gaze is deviated, it is easy to distinguish and detect whether the subject's gaze is directed towards the correct answer option or the interference option.

[0211] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the seventh aspect, based on any one of the first to sixth aspects, there are a plurality of test images, and the plurality of test images are displayed in sequence at predetermined times.

[0212] This has the advantage that it is possible to quantitatively evaluate whether the subject is able to select the correct answer option within the prescribed time, ie, within the answering time allocated to each question.

[0213] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the eighth aspect, based on the seventh aspect, the prescribed time is determined according to the difficulty of the Stroop test or the age of the subject.

[0214] This has the advantage that it is easy to perform a Stroop test appropriately for each subject, and it can be expected that the accuracy of the Stroop test will be improved.

[0215] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the ninth aspect, based on any one of the first to eighth aspects, the evaluation includes information indicating the degree to which the subject fixates on the correct answer option and information indicating the degree to which the subject fixates on the distractor option.

[0216] This has the advantage that, since information on the degree of fixation on the correct answer option and the degree of fixation on the distractor option can be obtained simultaneously from one task, the impact of the Stroop effect can be quantitatively evaluated with a small number of questions.

[0217] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the tenth mode, based on the ninth mode, the evaluation also includes information on the degree to which the subject fixates on the problem area.

[0218] This has the advantage that even parameters which could not be assessed in the conventional Stroop test which was given by written or oral responses can be assessed.

[0219] Furthermore, in the Stroop test method of the eleventh aspect, based on any one of the first to tenth aspects, the test image is presented to the subject by being displayed on the display device 10 .

[0220] This has the advantage that it is easier to present the test image to the subject than in the case where the test image is presented to the subject on paper.

[0221] Furthermore, the Stroop test program of the twelfth mode causes the computer to perform the following processing: obtaining line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image, generating evaluation information showing the evaluation of the subject based on the obtained line of sight position information, and outputting the generated evaluation information. The test image has: a question area, which displays questions for the subject; and an answer area, which displays multiple options, the multiple options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by answering the question through sight and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be induced to due to the Stroop effect.

[0222] This has the advantage that the test can be performed simply and a quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained.

[0223] Furthermore, the Stroop test system 1 of the 13th mode comprises: an acquisition unit (a detection unit 37 and a production unit 38, or an acquisition unit 40), an evaluation unit 39, and an output unit (a display unit 35). The acquisition unit acquires line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image. The evaluation unit 39 generates evaluation information showing an evaluation of the subject based on the line of sight position information acquired by the acquisition unit. The output unit outputs the evaluation information generated by the evaluation unit 39. The test image has: a question area, which displays questions for the subject; and an answer area, which displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by answering the question through sight and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options to which the subject may be induced due to the Stroop effect.

[0224] This has the advantage that the test can be performed simply and a quantitative evaluation can be easily obtained.

[0225] Furthermore, in the Stroop test image generation method of the 14th embodiment, a plurality of test images (S201 to S205) are generated in a manner that satisfies prescribed conditions. Each of the plurality of test images has: a question area that displays a question for the subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by sight to answer the question and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be misled by due to the Stroop effect. The prescribed conditions include: (1) the question area is located in the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the question area, and (3) the interference options in the test image are different from the correct answer options in the test image and the correct answer options in the test image to be presented to the subject next.

[0226] This has the advantage that even when the Stroop test is repeatedly administered to a subject, the Stroop test is unlikely to lose its validity because the subject will not remember the questions and answers.

[0227] Furthermore, in the Stroop test image generation method of the 15th aspect, based on the 14th aspect, the prescribed conditions also include: (4) the position of the correct answer option in each of the multiple test images is located on the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option in the test image that was previously presented to the subject in a manner that sandwiches the problem area.

[0228] This has the advantage that even when the Stroop test is repeatedly administered to a subject, the subject will not remember the questions and answers, and thus the Stroop test is less likely to lose its effectiveness.

[0229] Furthermore, in the Stroop test image generation method of the 16th mode, based on the 14th or 15th mode, the prescribed conditions also include: (5) the position of the interference option in each of the multiple test images is located on the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option in a manner that sandwiches the problem area.

[0230] The advantage of this is that the correct answer option and the interference option can be clearly distinguished. Even if the subject's gaze is deviated, it is easy to distinguish and detect whether the subject's gaze is directed towards the correct answer option or the interference option.

[0231] Furthermore, in the Stroop test image generation method of the 17th aspect, based on any one of the 14th to 16th aspects, the prescribed conditions also include: (6) the test image is rectangular, and the multiple options in the answer area are respectively located at multiple corners of the test image.

[0232] The advantage of this is that when the subject's gaze moves toward each option after gazing at the question area, the trajectory of the subject's gaze tends to spread out, so the trajectory of the subject's gaze toward each option is unlikely to overlap.

[0233] Furthermore, in the Stroop test image generation method of the 18th mode, based on the 17th mode, the prescribed conditions also include: (7) the correct answer option and the interference option are located on the diagonal line sandwiching the problem area.

[0234] The advantage of this is that the correct answer option and the interference option can be distinguished more clearly. Even if the subject's gaze is deviated, it is easier to distinguish and detect whether the subject's gaze is directed towards the correct answer option or the interference option.

[0235] Furthermore, the Stroop test image generation program of the 19th mode causes the computer to execute a process of generating a plurality of test images in a manner that satisfies specified conditions. Each of the plurality of test images has: a question area that displays a question for the subject; and an answer area that displays a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose by sight to answer the question and one or more incorrect answer options. The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that the subject may be misled by due to the Stroop effect. The specified conditions include: (1) the question area is located in the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the question area, and (3) the interference options in the test image are different from the correct answer options in the test image and the correct answer options in the test image to be presented to the subject next.

[0236] This has the advantage that even when the Stroop test is repeatedly administered to a subject, the Stroop test is unlikely to lose its validity because the subject will not remember the questions and answers.

[0237] Furthermore, in the test method of the 20th aspect, the evaluation of the cognitive function of the subject is shown based on the line of sight position information showing the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image. In this test method, the test image is presented to the subject in sequence within a prescribed time. The prescribed time is determined according to the difficulty of the test or the age of the subject.

[0238] This has the advantage that it is easy to implement a test suitable for each subject, and it can be expected that the accuracy of the test will be improved.

[0239] Industrial Applicability

[0240] The present invention can be utilized in a system, method, and program for implementing the Stroop test.

[0241] Explanation of symbols

[0242] 1 Stroop test system

[0243] 10 Display device

[0244] 11 Display surface

[0245] 20 Camera device

[0246] 21 Camera Department

[0247] 22, 23 Camera

[0248] 24 Light source

[0249] 25, 26 Light Source

[0250] 30 PC

[0251] 31 Processor

[0252] 32 Storage

[0253] 33 Input section

[0254] 34 Sound output unit

[0255] 35 Display

[0256] 36 Interface

[0257] 37 Detection Department

[0258] 38 Production Department

[0259] 39 Evaluation Department

[0260] 40 Get Department

[0261] 300 test image data

[0262] 301 1st image data

[0263] 302 2nd image data

[0264] 303 3rd image data

[0265] 304 4th image data

[0266] 310 Program

[0267] 311 Stroop test procedure

[0268] 312 Stroop test image generation program

[0269] 313 Viewpoint Data

[0270] 314 Distribution map data

[0271] 315 Database

Claims

1. A Stroop test method, wherein an evaluation of a subject is given based on line of sight position information showing the position of the subject's line of sight in a test image, The test image has: a question area, displaying questions for the subject; and an answer area, displaying a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose to answer the question by sight and one or more incorrect answer options, The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that may mislead the subject due to the Stroop effect.

2. The Stroop test method according to claim 1, A character string indicating the name of a color different from the color of the correct answer and a question sentence asking about the color used in the character string are displayed in the question area. The correct answer option is a character string showing the color of the correct answer, The distraction option is the character string showing the name of the color in the problem area.

3. The Stroop test method as claimed in claim 1, displaying, in the question area, a character string indicating a name of a color expressed in a color different from the color of the correct answer and a question sentence asking about the meaning of the character string, The correct answer option is the area filled with the color of the correct answer. The distraction option is an area filled with the color used by the character string showing the name of the color in the problem area.

4. The Stroop test method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The problem area is located in the center of the test image, The answer area is located around the question area.

5. The Stroop test method as claimed in claim 4, The test image is a rectangle. The multiple options in the answer area are respectively located at multiple corners of the test image.

6. The Stroop test method as claimed in claim 5, The correct solution option and the interference option are located on a diagonal line sandwiching the problem area.

7. The Stroop test method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The test images are multiple, The plurality of test images are presented to the subject in sequence at respective prescribed times.

8. The Stroop test method as claimed in claim 7, The prescribed time is determined according to the difficulty of the Stroop test or the age of the subject.

9. The Stroop test method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The evaluation includes information indicating the degree to which the subject fixates on the correct answer option and information indicating the degree to which the subject fixates on the distractor option.

10. The Stroop test method according to claim 9, The assessment also includes information showing the extent to which the subject fixated on the problem area.

11. The Stroop test method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The test image is presented to the subject by being displayed on a display device.

12. A Stroop test procedure, The Stroop test program causes the computer to perform the following processing: obtaining line of sight position information indicating the position of the line of sight of the subject in the test image, generating evaluation information showing an evaluation of the subject based on the obtained line of sight position information, outputting the generated evaluation information, The test image has: a question area, displaying questions for the subject; and an answer area, displaying a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose to answer the question by sight and one or more incorrect answer options, The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that may mislead the subject due to the Stroop effect.

13. A Stroop test system, The Stroop test system has: an acquisition unit that acquires line of sight position information indicating a position of a subject's line of sight in a test image; an evaluation unit that generates evaluation information indicating an evaluation of the subject based on the gaze position information obtained by the obtaining unit; as well as an output unit, outputting the evaluation information generated by the evaluation unit, The test image has: a question area, displaying questions for the subject; as well as an answer area, displaying a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose to answer the question by sight and one or more incorrect answer options, The one or more incorrect answer options include interference options that may mislead the subject due to the Stroop effect.

14. A method for generating Stroop test images. In the Stroop test image generation method, Generate multiple test images in a manner that satisfies specified conditions, Each of the plurality of test images has: A questions area, which displays questions for the subject; and an answer area, displaying a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose to answer the question by sight and one or more incorrect answer options, The one or more non-correct answer options include interference options that may lead the subject to be induced due to the Stroop effect, The prescribed conditions include: (1) The problem area is located in the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the question area, (3) The distractor option in the test image is different from the correct answer option in the test image and the correct answer option in the test image to be presented to the subject next.

15. The Stroop test image generation method according to claim 14, The conditions stipulated also include: (4) The position of the correct answer option in each of the plurality of test images is located on the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option in the test image immediately before being presented to the subject, so as to sandwich the question area.

16. The Stroop test image generation method according to claim 14 or 15, The conditions stipulated also include: (5) The position of the distractor option in each of the plurality of test images is located on the opposite side of the position of the correct answer option so as to sandwich the problem area.

17. The Stroop test image generation method according to claim 14 or 15, The conditions stipulated also include: (6) The test image is rectangular, and the multiple options in the answer area are located at multiple corners of the test image.

18. The Stroop test image generation method according to claim 17, The conditions stipulated also include: (7) The correct answer option and the interference option are located on a diagonal line sandwiching the problem area.

19. A Stroop test image generation procedure, The Stroop test image generation program causes the computer to execute a process of generating a plurality of test images in a manner that satisfies a predetermined condition. Each of the plurality of test images has: A questions area, which displays questions for the subject; and an answer area, displaying a plurality of options, the plurality of options including a correct answer option for the subject to choose to answer the question by sight and one or more incorrect answer options, The one or more non-correct answer options include interference options that may lead the subject to be induced due to the Stroop effect, The prescribed conditions include: (1) The problem area is located in the center of the test image, (2) the answer area is located around the question area, (3) The distractor option in the test image is different from the correct answer option in the test image and the correct answer option in the test image to be presented to the subject next.

20. A test method, comprising: providing an evaluation of a cognitive function of a subject based on line of sight position information indicating the position of the line of sight of the subject in a test image; In the test method, Prompt the test image to the subject within a specified time, The prescribed time is determined according to the difficulty of the test or the age of the subject.

Images