The SPIN theory--a navigational approach to space perception

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Science
• Neuroscience
• Computational Vision

Background:

• Spatial orientation relies on integrating retinal and extraretinal signals for perceptual constancies (position, size, shape) during movement.
• Existing approaches (inferential, direct perception, computational) have not fully resolved how absolute depth is perceived.
• Current theories often suggest only relative depth perception is possible from visual information alone.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel mathematical theory, Space Perception INterface (SPIN) theory, for understanding space perception.
• To propose that mental representations of objects are fundamentally exocentric, not egocentric.
• To demonstrate the theoretical feasibility of absolute (metric) depth perception.

Main Methods:

• Development of a new mathematical framework for space perception (SPIN theory).
• Integration of retinal and extraretinal signals within a navigational process model.
• Consideration of established eye movement laws (Listing's and Donders') and the vestibulo-ocular reflex.

Main Results:

• SPIN theory postulates and mathematically supports absolute depth perception.
• The theory models space perception as a navigational process yielding time-invariant, exocentric representations.
• It facilitates a continuous phenomenological experience across eye movements like fixations and saccades.

Conclusions:

• The proposed exocentric representation provides a viable mechanism for absolute depth perception.
• SPIN theory offers a unified framework integrating eye movement dynamics with spatial awareness.
• The theory generates new hypotheses regarding the functional basis of eye movement laws and reflexes.