Randomdot

Randomdot refers to a class of dot-based visual stimuli and generative patterns that rely on random or pseudorandom placement and motion of points within a defined field. Originating in vision science and computer graphics, randomdot stimuli are used both as experimental probes of motion perception and as building blocks for texture and art generation.

A randomdot pattern is created by distributing a set number of dots inside a rectangular region. The dot positions are determined by a random seed, giving reproducible results when seeded. In dynamic variants, at each frame new positions are computed or a subset of dots is assigned a motion direction. A key parameter is motion coherence—the fraction of dots moving in a common direction—while others move randomly, allowing researchers to calibrate perceptual thresholds.

Variants and related concepts include the Random Dot Kinematogram (RDK), the classic form used to study motion perception; random dot textures used in rendering pipelines; and design choices such as dot lifetime, which defines how long a dot persists, as well as dot size, speed, density, and field size.

Applications span psychology and digital art. In psychology, randomdot stimuli help investigate how local motion signals are integrated and how motion-selective neurons in the visual cortex respond. In art and procedural generation, they provide noise textures, dithering effects, and non-repeating backgrounds suitable for generative works.

Related topics include random dot kinematogram, motion perception, texture synthesis, procedural generation, and generative art.