Binaural processing model based on contralateral inhibition. I. Model structure

This article presents a quantitative binaural signal detection model which extends the monaural model described by Dau et al. [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 99, 3615-3622 (1996)]. The model is divided into three stages. The first stage comprises peripheral preprocessing in the right and left monaural channels . The second stage is a binaural processor which produces a time-dependent internal representation of the binaurally presented stimuli. This stage is based on the Jeffress delay line extended with tapped attenuator lines. Thr ough this extension, the internal representation codes both interaural time and intensity differences. In contrast to most present-day models, which a re based on excitatory-excitatory interaction, the binaural interaction in the present model is based on contralateral inhibition of ipsilateral signa ls. The last stage, a central processor, extracts a decision variable that can be used to detect the presence of a signal in a detection task, but cou ld also derive information about the position and the compactness of a soun d source. In two accompanying articles, the model predictions are compared with data obtained with human observers in a great variety of experimental conditions. (C) 2001 Acoustical Society of America.