Using Movement to Calibrate a Neural Compass in Rats and Robots
Author Information
Author(s): Stratton Peter, Milford Michael, Wyeth Gordon, Wiles Janet
Primary Institution: Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Hypothesis
Can synaptic learning mechanisms and warm-up movements calibrate the head direction system in darkness?
Conclusion
The study found that combining synaptic learning mechanisms with warm-up movements can effectively calibrate the head direction system in both rats and robots.
Supporting Evidence
- The head direction system in mammals can track direction using internal inputs.
- Warm-up movements in infant mammals may play a role in calibrating their neural systems.
- Robotic implementations can reveal principles of biological processes.
Takeaway
This study shows that moving in specific ways can help animals and robots know which direction they are facing, even when they can't see anything.
Methodology
The study implemented a spiking neural network model of the head direction system and tested it on a mobile robot platform.
Limitations
The calibration mechanisms may not be effective if specific movements are omitted or if sensory input is uncorrelated with head motion.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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