An uncertainty principle underlying the functional architecture of V1

We present a model of the morphology of orientation maps in V1 based on the uncertainty principle of the SE(2) group. Starting from the symmetries of the cortex, suitable harmonic analysis instruments are used to obtain coherent states in the Fourier domain as minimizers of the uncertainty. Cortical activities related to orientation maps are then obtained by projection on a suitable cortical Fourier basis.

► We present a model of the morphology of orientation preference maps (OPMs) in V1.
► We use methods of harmonic analysis in noncommutative Lie groups.
► Cortical activities related to OPM are obtained as minimal uncertainty states.