The Ohio State University Corporate Engagement Office

Back to All Technologies

Assessment of Sensory Memory Functions

Life & Health Sciences
Medical Devices
College
College of Arts & Sciences
Researchers
Lu, Zhong-Lin
Baek, Jongsoo
Lesmes, Luis
Licensing Manager
Dahlman, Jason "Jay"
(614)292-7945
dahlman.3@osu.edu

T2015-131

The Need

In the field of human information processing, the accurate assessment of iconic memory decay function is crucial for understanding memory-related disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Conventional testing methods, like the method of constant stimuli (MCS), are time-consuming, requiring a large number of trials and making it difficult to conduct experiments on special populations. There is a clear need for an efficient and precise testing procedure that can estimate sensory memory decay function with a reduced number of trials, without compromising accuracy and reliability.

The Technology

The technology presented here is an innovative adaptive testing method designed to generate a partial report, specifically for iconic memory. Implemented through an electronic device or computer system, the adaptive partial report procedure utilizes a display, user interface, and processor. This adaptive method efficiently characterizes the iconic memory decay function with a minimal number of trials, providing accurate and precise results.

Commercial Applications

The adaptive testing method for iconic memory decay function has a wide range of commercial applications in various fields, including:

  • Memory Research: Researchers and scientists studying human memory processes can use this technology to assess and understand iconic memory decay functions efficiently.
  • Neurological Studies: The adaptive procedure can aid in identifying early signs of Alzheimer's disease and other memory-related disorders by detecting rapid decay of iconic memory, potentially facilitating early interventions.
  • Psychological Experiments: The technology can be applied to streamline experiments requiring the assessment of sensory memory decay, allowing researchers to gather data more efficiently.
  • Cognitive Assessment: In clinical settings, the adaptive method can be used to evaluate cognitive abilities, providing valuable insights into memory function.
  • Educational Testing: Educational institutions can employ the adaptive testing technology to assess and analyze students' memory capabilities, tailoring teaching methods accordingly.

Benefits/Advantages

The adaptive testing technology for iconic memory decay function offers several key advantages:

  • Efficiency: Significantly reduces the number of trials required to estimate sensory memory decay function, saving time and resources in research and testing.
  • Accuracy: Despite using fewer trials, the adaptive method maintains high accuracy and precision in characterizing iconic memory decay functions.
  • Early Detection: Enables the early detection of potential memory-related issues, especially in populations at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or cognitive impairments.
  • Streamlined Research: Simplifies data collection and analysis in memory-related studies, improving the overall efficiency of research processes.
  • Applicability: The technology's versatility allows for its implementation in various fields, from academic research to clinical assessments, enhancing the understanding of human memory.