Pathway Technical Reference Manual
Proprietary 32 of 190
2.8 Application Methods
The Method defines the type of protocol used for the test. The following methods are
supported (both in the CHEPS and ATS models):
Ramp & Hold: The temperature of the stimulus is maintained for a predetermined
duration.
VAS Search: A set of Ramp & Hold stimuli is emitted, and for each stimulus, the
subject is required to report the perceived level of pain. The following stimulus is
calculated according to the subject's response.
Pulses: Fast and short duration stimuli.
Search: The temperature of the stimulus rises (or falls) according to the tested
subject’s response (using CoVAS or Response Unit), and stops after a predefined
period.
Limits: A set of stimuli at a predetermined rate is given, and for each stimulus, the
subject is required to stop the stimulus when perceiving the required sensation.
Levels: A set of stimuli is emitted, and for each stimulus, the test subject is required
to respond. The following stimulus is calculated according to the tested subject's
response.
Thermal Sensory Limen (TSL): The temperature of the stimulus rises (or falls)
according to the test subject's response and stops according to predefined trails.
VAS Search: A set of Ramp & Hold stimuli is emitted, and for each stimulus, the
subject is required to report the perceived level of pain. The following stimulus is
calculated according to the subject's response.
Chain: This method can chain any of the predefined methods, any number of times,
in any order.
2.8.1 Ramp & Hold Method
In this method, the temperature rises (or falls) to a predetermined destination, at a
predetermined rate, remains there for a predetermined duration and proceeds to the next
destination.
There are two main options: Return to Baseline, and Continue to Next Destination.
2.8.1.1 “Return to Baseline” option
The diagram below shows a general view of the sequence and predefined parameters. For the
definition of each parameter, see7.7.1, page 71.
Before using each of these methods, make sure you have read section 6,
Page 57, on Test Procedure and Management, which addresses the
following topics: Test subject selection, Program selection, and Stimuli
administration.
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