PMC

Binary pattern generator. (a) A central pattern generator in the human neural network which controls biological motors. (b) A concept of an artificial pattern generator which controls switching circuits for DC-DC voltage conversion. (c) A binary pattern generator, a specially designed pattern generator for purpose of controlling switching circuits. It consists of a chain of waiting time generators with a wide range of preprogrammed waiting times. (d) The spike or bit output signals from the binary pattern generator. The length of the bit signal corresponds to the preprogrammed waiting time of each waiting time generator. This bit signal is directly used for the gate control in the switching circuits.

Cartoon schematic indicating idealized interrelationships between supraspinal regulation, central pattern generator (CPG) patterning and reflex control, and afferent feedback. [Adapted from .]

Strong correlation between reflex amplitude during voluntary knee extension is absent during walking due to the modulation of presumed central pattern generator activity. EMG, electromyography. [Adapted from .]

Schematic representing two hypothetical sources of length deviations. The factors determining measured timing values can be conceptually separated into those that depend on the central pattern generator for song and those determined by influences downstream of the pattern generator. The timing of song is indicated by vertical dashes, according to the coding within the pattern generator (top) or as measured in the song output (bottom). Dashed arrows indicate temporal deviations. A, Deviations originating downstream of the pattern generator. Because centrally coded timing continues unaffected, the deviations are eventually offset by equal and opposite deviations. This leads to patterns of negative covariance in measured timing. B, Timing deviations caused by the pattern generator. Here, the relative timing of subsequent output activity remains unaffected, leading to variance that can be independent of other timing deviations. Overall, independent length deviations in the behavior must reflect timing variability in the song pattern generator.