Andrew Parker (Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, UK)
Abstract:More than 100 years of study has begun to reveal some of the fundamental elements of structures in the cerebral cortex that may be relevant for functional computation. In common discussion nowadays are the horizontal six-layered structure of neocortical tissue, vertical columnar structures, long-range horizontal connections that link columnar structures and the input/output relationships between multiple cortical areas. The visual cortex has been a particularly fertile system for exploring the functional role of these structures. This talk will continue that exploration, particularly focussing on the role of visual cortex in supporting binocular vision. Stereo presents a well-defined computational problem for which there has been a good deal of theoretical analysis and many instances of machine-based implementations. In order to provoke further discussion, I shall particularly highlight some of the apparent differences in computational strategies employed by biological and machine-based systems.