RESPONSE OF HUMAN VISUAL SYSTEM TO MOVING SPATIALLY-PERIODIC PATTERNS

The work is concerned with the two critical frequencies that are associated with the visual observation of a moving, spatially periodic pattern. Data are given for the dependence of these frequencies upon the input parameters of the stimulus (e.g. spatial period, and area). On the basis of these data, it is concluded that the system has features in common with the known optomotor response of certain insects. In particular, the system demonstrates the property of phase blindness and also a phenomenon probably related to the 'pattern reversal' effect found in the case of the insect. It was further found that the de Lange c.f.f. filters are insensitive to spatial variations in the phases of the input stimuli. A network, capable of detailed analysis, is suggested that functionally describes the behaviour of the system. © 1969.