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Disparity-tuned channels of the human visual system

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 June 2009

Lawrence K. Cormack ,
Scott B. Stevenson  and
Clifton M. Schor
Lawrence K. Cormack
Affiliation:
Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin
Scott B. Stevenson
Affiliation:
School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley
Clifton M. Schor
Affiliation:
School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley
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Abstract

Traditionally, it has been thought that the processing of binocular disparity for the perception of stereoscopic depth is accomplished via three types of disparity-selective channels – “near,” “far,” and “tuned.” More recent evidence challenges this notion. We have derived disparity-tuning functions psychophysically using a subthreshold summation (i.e. low-level masking) technique. We measured correlation-detection thresholds for dynamic random-element stereograms containing either one or two surfaces in depth. The resulting disparity-tuning functions show an opponent-type profile, indicating the presence of inhibition between disparity-tuned units in the visual system. Moreover, there is clear inhibition between disparities of the same sign, obviating a strict adherence to near-far opponency. These results compare favorably with tuning functions derived psychophysically using an adaptation technique, and with the tuning profiles from published single-unit recordings. Our results suggests a continuum of overlapping disparity-tuned channels, which is consistent with recent physiological evidence as well as models based on other psychophysical data.

Keywords

StereopsisDisparityChannels
Type
Research Articles
Information
Visual Neuroscience , Volume 10 , Issue 4 , July 1993 , pp. 585 - 596
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1993

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