An independent effect of spatial frequency on motion integration reveals orientation resolution.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the independent role of spatial frequency on component motion integration.


METHODS
Two Type II plaids were presented at varying spatial frequencies. The velocity vectors of the underlying components were constructed so that predicted speed and direction from the components; the Intersection of Constraints; the vector average; and distortion products, remained constant for each of the two plaids across spatial frequency. Perceived direction was measured using a method of adjustment.


RESULTS
Perceived direction changed as a function of spatial frequency, approaching the pattern direction only at spatial frequencies greater than 0.5cpd.


CONCLUSIONS
Spatial frequency has an independent effect on the component integration stage that determines perceived pattern motion direction. The results appear to reflect the resolution of orientation for recombination of the components at low spatial frequencies. These results have implications for motion modelling and possible clinical applications.
Bowns
Linda
L
School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK. l.bowns@psychology.nottingham.ac.uk
Beckett
Alexander J S
AJ
D006801:Humans; D009039:Motion Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D010364:Pattern Recognition, Visual; D010775:Photic Stimulation / Q000379:methods