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A multidimensional model of the effect of gravity on the spatial orientation of the monkeyA "sensory conflict" model of spatial orientation was developed. This mathematical model was based on concepts derived from observer theory, optimal observer theory, and the mathematical properties of coordinate rotations. The primary hypothesis is that the central nervous system of the squirrel monkey incorporates information about body dynamics and sensory dynamics to develop an internal model. The output of this central model (expected sensory afference) is compared to the actual sensory afference, with the difference defined as "sensory conflict." The sensory conflict information is, in turn, used to drive central estimates of angular velocity ("velocity storage"), gravity ("gravity storage"), and linear acceleration ("acceleration storage") toward more accurate values. The model successfully predicts "velocity storage" during rotation about an earth-vertical axis. The model also successfully predicts that the time constant of the horizontal vestibulo-ocular reflex is reduced and that the axis of eye rotation shifts toward alignment with gravity following postrotatory tilt. Finally, the model predicts the bias, modulation, and decay components that have been observed during off-vertical axis rotations (OVAR).
Document ID
20050000541
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Merfeld, D. M.
(Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge)
Young, L. R.
Oman, C. M.
Shelhamer, M. J.
Date Acquired
August 22, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of vestibular research : equilibrium & orientation
Volume: 3
Issue: 2
ISSN: 0957-4271
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Discipline Neuroscience
NASA Discipline Number 16-10
NASA Discipline Number 00-00
Non-NASA Center

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