A theoretical model for perceived intensity in human taste and smell. II. Temporal integration and reaction times.
The theoretical model for perceived intensity in human taste and smell published previously was extended by incorporating the concept of signal detectability and temporal integration phenomena at low and high stimulus levels. The processes involved in human taste and smell perception are divided into three stages: a) An "internal meter" registers outside signals. Adaptation occurs at this stage. b) The meter is read for two possible purposes: to detect a weak signal or to estimate the signal's intensity. Both tasks require the smoothing of noise, which is accomplished by integration of the meter over time. c) The internal estimate is expressed through the use of a scaling method.
Unilever Research Laboratorium Vlaardingen, The Netherlands.
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Overbosch
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De Jong
D006801:Humans; D008433:Mathematics; D008954:Models, Biological; D010465:Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D011930:Reaction Time / Q000502:physiology*; D012684:Sensory Thresholds; D012903:Smell / Q000502:physiology*; D013649:Taste / Q000502:physiology*; D013997:Time Factors