Central pattern generator

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A central pattern generator is a network of neurons (or even a single neuron) which is able to exhibit rhythmic behavior in the absence of sensory input. Besides being found in nervous systems, they are also sometimes implemented to control robot locomotion.

Some examples of central pattern generators:

• The stomatogastric nervous system
• Swimming in fish
• Insect wing control for flight

[edit] See also

• Autonomic nervous system
• Reflex arc

[edit] External links

• Dimitrijevic MR, Gerasimenko Y, Pinter MM. Evidence for a spinal central pattern generator in humans. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1998 Nov 16;860:360-76.
• A.J. Ijspeert and J. Kodjabachian. Evolution and development of a central pattern generator for the swimming of a lamprey. Research Paper No 926, Dept. of Artificial Intelligence, University of Edinburgh, 1998.
• Arthur D. Kuo. The relative roles of feedforward and feedback in the control of rhythmic movements. Motor Control, 2002, 6, 129-145 (.pdf format)
• Paul S. Katz, David J. Fickbohm, and Christina P. Lynn-Bullock. Evidence that the Central Pattern Generator for Swimming in Tritonia Arose from a Non-Rhythmic Neuromodulatory Arousal System: Implications for the Evolution of Specialized Behavior. Amer. Zool. 41: 962-975. doi:10.1093/icb/41.4.962