Dynamical Characteristics of the Fusional Vergence Eye-Movement System

Abstract

Experiments have been performed on the fusional vergence eye-movement mechanism in humans to provide a comparison with the established dynamical characteristics of the versional eye-movement system. Transient and frequency response experiments indicate that the fusional vergence system is not characterized by sampled data or refractory operation. When provided with a periodic input, this system may utilize prediction to reduce inherent phase lags. The gain of the system, although apparently unaffected by the predictive mechanism, is subject to input amplitude-dependent nonlinearities. Under conditions of artificially high loop gain, the system breaks into smooth sustained oscillations at a frequency predicted by frequency response data. The absence of a refractory period in the fusional vergence system is demonstrated by the system response to brief pulsatile stimulation. These results are discussed, emphasizing comparison with corresponding results from experiments on the versional system.