# Quantum-Inspired Neural Network Model of Optical Illusions

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2312.03447 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2312.03447/

## Key facts

- Cited by 7 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 14 of its 120 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 6 Dec 2023.

## Builds on (most cited first, 14 of 14)

- [The power of quantum neural networks](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2011.00027/) (2020)
- [Efficient Learning for Deep Quantum Neural Networks](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1902.10445/) (2019)
- [Next Generation Reservoir Computing](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2106.07688/) (2021)
- [Recurrent Quantum Neural Networks](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2006.14619/) (2020)
- [Analogue and Physical Reservoir Computing Using Water Waves](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2306.09095/) (2023)
- [An Invitation to Distributed Quantum Neural Networks](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2211.07056/) (2022)
- [Harnessing disordered quantum dynamics for machine learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1602.08159/) (2016)
- [Human-Piloted Drone Racing: Visual Processing and Control](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2103.04672/) (2021)
- [Neural Echo State Network using oscillations of gas bubbles in water](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2112.11592/) (2021)
- [Human Perception as a Phenomenon of Quantization](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2208.03726/) (2022)
- [Learning from Pseudo-Randomness With an Artificial Neural Network - Does God Play Pseudo-Dice?](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1801.01117/) (2018)
- [On the quantum principles of cognitive learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1609.00658/) (2016)
- [Exploring Cognitive Paradoxes in Video Games: A Quantum Mechanical Perspective](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2307.08758/) (2023)
- [What Is Consciousness? Artificial Intelligence, Real Intelligence, Quantum Mind, And Qualia](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2106.15515/) (2021)

## Built on by (most cited first, 7 of 7)

- [Classical and Quantum Physical Reservoir Computing for Onboard Artificial Intelligence Systems: A Perspective](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2407.04717/) (2024)
- [Reservoir Computing Using Measurement-Controlled Quantum Dynamics](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2403.01024/) (2024)
- [Quantum-tunnelling deep neural network for optical illusion recognition](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2407.11013/) (2024)
- [Quantum-Cognitive Neural Networks: Assessing Confidence and Uncertainty with Human Decision-Making Simulations](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2412.08010/) (2024)
- [Full-Precision and Ternarised Neural Networks with Tunnel-Diode Activation Functions: Computing and Physics Perspectives](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2503.04978/) (2025)
- [Transforming Traditional Neural Networks into Neuromorphic Quantum-Cognitive Models: A Tutorial with Applications](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2503.07681/) (2025)
- [Quantum-Cognitive Tunnelling Neural Networks for Military-Civilian Vehicle Classification and Sentiment Analysis](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2507.18645/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Ambiguous optical illusions have been a paradigmatic object of fascination, research and inspiration in arts, psychology and video games. However, accurate computational models of perception of ambiguous figures have been elusive. In this paper, we design and train a deep neural network model to simulate the human's perception of the Necker cube, an ambiguous drawing with several alternating possible interpretations. Defining the weights of the neural network connection using a quantum generator of truly random numbers, in agreement with the emerging concepts of quantum artificial intelligence and quantum cognition we reveal that the actual perceptual state of the Necker cube is a qubit-like superposition of the two fundamental perceptual states predicted by classical theories. Our results will find applications in video games and virtual reality systems employed for training of astronauts and operators of unmanned aerial vehicles. They will also be useful for researchers working in the fields of machine learning and vision, psychology of perception and quantum-mechanical models of human mind and decision-making.