Neurological Disorder Detection via Typing Cadence Analysis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting neurological disorders, such as the Finger Tapping Test, are limited in their ability to provide early and accurate diagnosis due to low volume and granularity of data, are cumbersome, and not suitable for continuous monitoring.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that utilizes a typing device connected to a computing device and a backend system to gather and analyze typing cadence data, which is then processed to detect subtle changes indicative of neurological disorders, providing more granular and continuous data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the Finger Tapping Test is used to detect neurological disorders, then some diagnostic data can be obtained, but the data volume and granularity are too low for early diagnosis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic precisionVSAvoiddata volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the diagnostic process into multiple dimensions by collecting typing data across different tasks, time periods, and performance metrics (speed, accuracy, consistency, error patterns). This segmentation transforms a single low-granularity measurement into thousands of granular data points that collectively enable early neurological disorder detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds multiple dimensions to the diagnostic data collection by measuring typing performance across temporal dimensions (changes over time), task dimensions (different typing tasks), and performance dimensions (speed, accuracy, consistency, error types). This dimensional expansion transforms limited 1D data into multi-dimensional data suitable for early diagnosis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Quantity of substance

If the Finger Tapping Test is administered frequently to increase data volume, then more diagnostic data can be collected, but the process becomes cumbersome and costly due to in-person visits and special equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata volumeVSAvoidoperational convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by using the patient's existing computer and keyboard for data collection. The typing tasks are administered online without requiring clinical staff, special equipment, or in-person visits. Patients complete typing assessments independently on their own devices, eliminating the operational burden of traditional testing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent leverages the universal presence of computers and keyboards in modern life to conduct neurological assessments. The same device patients use for work and communication becomes the assessment tool, eliminating the need for specialized equipment and enabling data collection in natural settings

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If traditional testing methods are used, then diagnostic assessment can be performed, but continuous monitoring of brain injuries is not feasible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic reliabilityVSAvoidmonitoring duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables continuous monitoring by collecting typing data repeatedly over extended periods (weeks, months, or years). Patients can complete typing assessments whenever they use their computer, creating a continuous stream of diagnostic data that tracks neurological changes over time, unlike discrete traditional testing sessions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS10694987B1Neurological disorder determining and monitoring system and method
Publication Date: 2020.06.30 NEURAMETRIX INC
  • US10694987B1 patent drawing
  • US10694987B1 patent drawing
  • US10694987B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for determining and monitoring a neurological disorder using key action cadence is disclosed.