Formation of an Orientation Preference Map – Gradual Inhibition Method

Formation of an orientation preference map due to external visual stimuli in the primary visual area of the cerebral cortex is investigated in a two-layered neural network model, where a cluster learning rule is used together with ordinary Hebbian learning rule. We succeed in solving directly a set of simultaneous equations by numerical iterations using a gradual inhibition method. Previously, an alternative solution was found by applying a Self-Consistent Monte Carlo (SCMC) method. The gradual inhibition method in an iterative procedure can give a more precise solution efficiently with fewer computational tasks than the SCMC method.