Automated Reading Speed Estimation for Decentralized Clinical Trials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current reading speed tests are cumbersome, prone to human error, and do not fully exploit the automation potential of mobile computing platforms, leading to variability and long test durations, making them unsuitable for decentralized clinical trials and remote disease monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that estimates reading speed using a reading speed model with parameters and metrics, administered on a computing device, allowing self-administration of tests with voice recognition for data collection, and an adaptive phase to refine estimates, optimizing stimulus features and print sizes for precise and efficient results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual time measurement and error recording are used by a supervising examiner, then reading performance data can be collected, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual stopwatch timing and handwritten error recording with an automated computer-based system that electronically records reading speed and accuracy metrics, eliminating human reaction time variability and manual transcription errors
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-administration of reading tests where individuals independently complete reading tasks without requiring a supervising examiner to manually time and record results, with the computer automatically capturing all necessary performance data
2Measurement precision
If an observer uses a stopwatch to measure reading time, then reading speed can be assessed, but human reaction time introduces variability and reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the human-operated stopwatch with an automated electronic timing system that begins and ends timing automatically based on detected reading actions, eliminating human reaction time delays and inconsistencies entirely
3Ease of operation
If paper-based reading charts are used, then reading performance can be assessed, but the charts are cumbersome and require simultaneous manual operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the physical paper-based chart system with a digital computer interface that automatically presents reading passages, tracks progress, and records results electronically, eliminating the need for simultaneous manual operations of chart handling, timing, and data recording
Solution Approach 2:
The computer system performs multiple functions simultaneously - presenting reading material, timing the reading, detecting completion, recording accuracy, and storing results - all through a single integrated platform that replaces multiple separate manual tasks
4Manufacturing precision
If computerized reading systems are used with high-resolution displays, then small text sizes can be rendered adequately, but the systems are not portable like paper charts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes mobile computing devices that combine high-resolution displays capable of rendering small text sizes with portability, creating a single device that performs both the precision text rendering function and the portability function that paper charts only partially achieved
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for estimating a reading speed of an individual. The method comprises the steps of: providing a reading speed model, based on a reading speed function comprising a set of parameters and a set of metrics; determining a printed stimulus to be presented to the individual by way of a reading run of a reading test and determining one or more stimulus features associated therewith; controlling an administration of the reading test to the individual based on the one or more determined stimulus features; receiving reading speed observation data based on the presented printed stimulus and corresponding to one or more responses made by the individual in the reading test.