Computer-simulated virtual reality environments for evaluation of neurobehavioral performance
First Claim
1. A method for performing a virtual reality-based test wherein neurobehavioral performance skills can be measured in human subjects, the method comprising, (a) providing interactive virtual reality-based neurobehavioral tests, wherein a plurality of virtual environments are available to evaluate said neurobehavioral performance skills, (b) providing an input technology for receiving feedback responses to said interactive virtual reality environment from said human subjects, the neurobehavioral tests automatically self-adjust during operation in accordance with at least one specific purpose of the assessment, (c) providing an advanced computer workstation which displays said virtual environments to users through various devices, and (d) recording performance metrics reflecting said neurobehavioral skills of said human subjects.
0 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A virtual reality (VR)-based test battery wherein various neurobehavioral performance skills, including motor skills, sensory-perceptual skills, attention, and decision-making can be measured in human subjects. The invention can be used as a screening method within a virtual environment to provide an overall measure of general brain function relating to behavioral ability. In addition, the invention provides comprehensive VR-based neurobehavioral examinations tailored to individual subjects which can automatically self-adjust during operation in accordance with the specific purpose of the assessment, or for forms of cognitive or physical rehabilitation. According to the invention, patients with neurological and psychiatric dysfunctions can be assessed with physiologic monitoring as well as with anatomical and functional neuroimaging to non-invasively map the functional neuroanatomic correlates of VR-based test performance. In a preferred embodiment, the VR-based neurobehavioral testing system is portable allowing computerized tests to be administered in a desk-top or lap-top configuration, or via the Internet for tele-assessment of human subjects who are physically inaccessible to the test administrator. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the method of the invention is used for vocational assessment and training, wherein individual test scores are combined into a final metric useful for assessing a candidate'"'"'s qualifications for employment, or certification in a particular skill.
162 Citations
24 Claims
-
1. A method for performing a virtual reality-based test wherein neurobehavioral performance skills can be measured in human subjects, the method comprising,
(a) providing interactive virtual reality-based neurobehavioral tests, wherein a plurality of virtual environments are available to evaluate said neurobehavioral performance skills, (b) providing an input technology for receiving feedback responses to said interactive virtual reality environment from said human subjects, the neurobehavioral tests automatically self-adjust during operation in accordance with at least one specific purpose of the assessment, (c) providing an advanced computer workstation which displays said virtual environments to users through various devices, and (d) recording performance metrics reflecting said neurobehavioral skills of said human subjects.
-
8. The method of claim 8, wherein said computerized tests are administered and results transmitted via the Internet for tele-assessment of human subjects who are physically inaccessible to a test administrator.
- 10. The method of claim 10, wherein individual test scores obtained from said neurobehavioral tests are combined into a final metric useful for assessing a candidate'"'"'s qualifications for employment.
-
23. The method of claim 23, wherein said individualized virtual measures are useful for predicting future employment/success in the workplace or school.
Specification