This inventor holds 1 USPTO granted patent. Top assignee: Northwestern University. Active years: 2001.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2001
Title: David Ferster: Innovator in Animal Behavioral Testing
Introduction
David Ferster is an accomplished inventor based in Evanston, IL. He has made significant contributions to the field of animal behavioral testing through his innovative patent. His work focuses on developing automated systems that enhance the understanding of animal responses in behavioral tests.
Latest Patents
David Ferster holds a patent for an "Automated system and method for measuring and evaluating an animal's response during a behavioral test." This invention provides a method and system for automatically measuring an animal's response to its environment during behavioral tests, which can indicate the animal's mental or emotional state. Specifically, for the Porsolt Forced Swim test, the system utilizes a pair of spaced electrodes positioned in a tank of water where the animal is placed. A current is applied to the electrodes, generating a voltage that varies with the height of the water, thus indicating the animal's movement. The processed electrode signal determines the energy of the perturbations in the water caused by the animal's activity. This data is crucial for providing a graphical representation of the animal's activity over time and distinguishing various types of behavior, such as floating, swimming, and climbing.
Career Highlights
David Ferster is affiliated with Northwestern University, where he continues to advance research in animal behavior and testing methodologies. His work has implications for understanding animal psychology and improving experimental designs in behavioral studies.
Collaborations
David collaborates with Eva E Redei, contributing to the research efforts at Northwestern University. Their combined expertise enhances the quality and impact of their research in the field.
Conclusion
David Ferster's innovative approach to animal behavioral testing through his patented technology represents a significant advancement in the field. His contributions not only improve the accuracy of behavioral assessments but also deepen the understanding of animal emotions and mental states.