Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

MPI CyberMotion Simulator: Implementation of a Novel Motion Simulator to Investigate Multisensory Path Integration in Three Dimensions
Published on: May 10, 2012
Linking dynamical perceptual decisions at different levels of description in motion pattern formation: psychophysics
Howard S Hock1, Annemie Ploeger
1Department of Psychology, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton 33431, USA. hockhs@fau.edu
Abstract:
The relationship between local-level motion detection and higher level pattern-forming mechanisms was investigated with the motion quartet, a bistable stimulus for which either horizontal or vertical motion patterns are perceived. Local-level perturbations in luminance contrast affected the stability of the perceived patterns and, thereby, the size of the pattern-level hysteresis obtained by gradually changing the motion quartet's aspect ratio. Briefly eliminating luminance contrast (so nonmotion was perceived during the perturbation) eliminated pattern-level hysteresis, and briefly increasing luminance contrast (so motion was perceived during the perturbation) increased pattern-level hysteresis. Partially reducing luminance contrast resulted in bistability during the perturbation; pattern-level hysteresis was maintained when motion was perceived, and eliminated when nonmotion was perceived. The results were attributed to local motion/nonmotion perceptual decisions in area V1 affecting the magnitude of the activation feeding forward to motion detectors in area MT, where the stability of pattern-level perceptual decisions is determined by activation-dependent, future-shaping interactions that inhibit soon-to-be-stimulated detectors responsive to competing motion directions.
Related Concept Videos
Parallel Processing
Depth Perception and Spatial Vision
Gestalt Principles of Perception
Hierarchy of Motor Control
Visual System
Once through the pupil, the light passes through the lens, a...
Vision

