Computer modeling the neurophysiology of vision.

Abstract

The pertinent points of visual neurophysiology and neuroanatomy are reviewed with particular emphasis on how retinal light distributions result in perceived phenomena. The neural modeling techniques used at the Naval Postgraduate School are discussed. The specific computer programs used by the author in modeling are described. These stem from a basic model capable of calculating the postsynaptic potential and spike outputs for any sequence of excitatory and inhibitory inputs. More advanced programs model facilitation, fatigue, and narrow band motion detection. The most advanced program models lateral inhibition in an eight neuron linear array. The lateral inhibition network is used to show temporal phenomena (null vs. preferred direction, fast vs. slow speed detection) as well as spatial phenomena (Mach bands, line sharpening, disinhibition, spatial frequency response) . Many suggestions for future modeling work are given.