Virtual Block Test Interface for Accurate Remote Psychology Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

The traditional block design test for psychology testing, which assesses spatial visualization and motor skills, faces challenges in administration due to the need for physical blocks and changes in testing format during the pandemic, affecting accuracy and validity of results.

Innovation Solution

A virtual block test design is developed, utilizing a computer system with a processor, memory, and input devices to manipulate virtual blocks on a display screen, allowing clients to take the test online and enabling practitioners to monitor remotely.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If physical blocks are used for the block design test, then the test can assess spatial visualization and motor skills, but the test administration becomes complex and requires physical materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest validityVSAvoidadministration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical block design test environment. Digital blocks with various color patterns are rendered on a display screen, replicating the functionality of physical Kohs blocks. The virtual blocks can be manipulated through input devices (mouse, touchscreen, keyboard) to match patterns, maintaining the core assessment capabilities while eliminating the need for physical materials. This copying approach preserves test validity while simplifying administration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If screen mirroring is used to administer the test remotely during the pandemic, then the test can be administered online, but the accuracy and validity of results are affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote administration capabilityVSAvoidscore accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical screen mirroring system with a native virtual block test environment. Instead of displaying physical blocks through a camera feed, the system renders digital blocks directly in the online testing interface. This substitution eliminates the intermediary step of screen mirroring, ensuring that the test administration environment is standardized and normed for remote delivery, thereby maintaining score accuracy while preserving remote accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If physical blocks are used for the test, then the test can be administered traditionally, but materials need to be mailed and handled, reducing efficiency and confidentiality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest accessibilityVSAvoidadministration efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The virtual block test creates a digital replica of the traditional physical block test experience. All test materials (blocks with various color patterns) are delivered instantly as digital assets accessible through any internet-connected device. This eliminates the logistics of mailing physical materials while maintaining full test accessibility. The digital format also enhances confidentiality by eliminating physical material handling and storage requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS12569176B2Virtual block test design for psychology testing and method of use thereof
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 PRATT JILL E
  • US12569176B2 patent drawing
  • US12569176B2 patent drawing
  • US12569176B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A virtual block test design for psychology testing includes a computer system with a processor, a memory, a client input device, and a client display screen. The memory is configured to store a plurality of virtual block tests via the processor. The client display screen is configured to display a specified virtual block test from the plurality of virtual block tests via the processor. The client input device is configured to manipulate the specified virtual block test displayed on the client display screen via the processor. Wherein, the computer system is configured to allow a client to take the specified virtual block test displayed on the client display screen by utilizing the client input device to manipulate the specified virtual block test.