Cognitive Ability Estimation via Virtual Target Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques for evaluating cognitive function are limited by their reliance on language elements, literacy, and writing ability, making them ineffective for pure cognitive assessment and prone to ceiling effects and learning biases.
Innovation Solution
A cognitive ability estimation apparatus that uses a virtual space to display target objects, requiring users to perform three-dimensional body actions, thereby estimating cognitive ability based on attributes such as moving speed, object size, and display position, without relying on language or literacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional cognitive function evaluation methods using language elements, literacy, and writing ability are used, then the evaluation can be performed with established standardized tests, but the evaluation becomes biased and ineffective for pure cognitive assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and removes language elements, literacy requirements, and writing ability components from the cognitive evaluation process. By using a virtual reality system that relies solely on visual perception and motor response, the patent eliminates the harmful bias introduced by conventional language-based tests, enabling pure cognitive ability assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical/linguistic system of written tests and language-based questions with a virtual reality-based visual-motor system. Instead of requiring reading and writing, the system uses visual display of target objects and tracks physical body movements, substituting language processing with visual-spatial and motor coordination tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cognitive tests are used, then the evaluation framework is established, but ceiling effects and learning biases occur limiting continuous assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the virtual reality system to continuously adjust task parameters such as target object attributes, display positions, and task complexity based on real-time performance feedback. This dynamic adjustment prevents ceiling effects and maintains reliable assessment across repeated evaluations by continuously challenging the user at an appropriate difficulty level.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual reality evaluation system serves multiple functions: it can perform initial cognitive assessment, track progress over time, provide continuous training, and adapt to different cognitive ability levels. This multi-functionality enables both reliable repeated measurement and continuous cognitive improvement in a single integrated platform.
3Productivity
If conventional evaluation methods are used, then the assessment can be completed with standard procedures, but the examination time is extended and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual reality system enables continuous cognitive assessment and training without the interruptions and setup/teardown time associated with conventional paper-based or computer-based tests. The system maintains continuous engagement through immersive virtual environments and real-time feedback, reducing total examination time while improving evaluation efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
To accurately evaluate the cognitive ability of a user, a cognitive ability estimation apparatus includes a display controller that generates and displays, in a virtual space, a target object for urging a user to perform a three-dimensional body action, a setter that sets, as an attribute of the target object in the virtual space, at least one of a moving speed, the number of displayed target objects, a size, a display position, and a display interval, and an estimator that estimates a cognitive ability level of the user in accordance with the attribute of the target object in a case where the body action for the target object can be achieved by the user.