A model for neural representation of binocular disparity in striate cortex: distributed representation and veto mechanism.

A model in striate cortex is proposed for a distributed neural representation of binocular disparity with a simple cell. In the model, disparity is represented by "far", "near" and "tuned inhibitory" simple cells. However, the representation will be vetoed by model cells where disparity is excessively large. The veto mechanism consists of a neural network of the model cell which received output from simple cells and which interacts with neighbors. The mechanism is necessary, the model cell responds like a simple cell, and the network is physiologically plausible in the brain. Computer simulation on the neural network model with random dot stereography indicates reasonable performance.