Hybrid Bayesian-Frequentist Hyperparameter Determination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine learning methods face challenges in determining suitable hyperparameters, especially when training data is limited, leading to potential unsuitable hyperparameter selection.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method using a probabilistic model, such as a Gaussian process or Bayesian neural network, that switches between Bayesian and frequentist approaches based on uncertainty conditions, with criteria like Kullback-Leibler divergence and entropy thresholds, to efficiently determine hyperparameters, reducing computational costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If Bayesian approach is used to determine hyperparameters, then reliability of hyperparameter determination is improved, but computing resources consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability of hyperparameter determinationVSAvoidcomputing resources consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the approach parameter from purely Bayesian to a hybrid Bayesian-frequentist approach. By introducing a threshold parameter that switches between Bayesian and frequentist methods based on data availability, the system adapts computational intensity to match the reliability requirements of different data scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the hyperparameter determination method dynamic by switching between Bayesian and frequentist approaches based on the amount of available training data. The system dynamically adjusts its computational strategy: using Bayesian methods when data is scarce for higher reliability, and frequentist methods when data is abundant for lower computational cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Use of energy by moving object

If frequentist approach is used to determine hyperparameters, then computing resources consumption is reduced, but reliability of hyperparameter determination deteriorates when training data is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomputing resources consumptionVSAvoidreliability ofhyperparameter determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a feedback mechanism that monitors the amount of training data available and uses this feedback to select the appropriate method. The system continuously evaluates data availability and switches between Bayesian and frequentist approaches accordingly, ensuring reliable hyperparameter determination while optimizing computational resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the method parameter based on data quantity conditions. By introducing a threshold parameter that triggers different methods based on training data availability, the system ensures reliable hyperparameter determination when data is limited while reducing computational cost when data is sufficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If early definition ofhyperparameter value is made, then productivity of machine learning process is improved, but reliability ofhyperparameter determination deteriorates under high uncertainty

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproductivity of machine learning processVSAvoidreliability ofhyperparameter determination
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by using Bayesian methods during the early stages of training when data is scarce, despite the higher computational cost. This preliminary Bayesian analysis establishes reliable initial hyperparameter estimates before switching to faster frequentist methods, ensuring reliability is established before productivity optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the hyperparameter determination process dynamic by switching methods based on data availability and uncertainty levels. The system dynamically adjusts between Bayesian (high reliability, lower productivity) and frequentist (low reliability, high productivity) methods to optimize the balance between reliability and productivity at different stages of training.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240028936A1Device and computer-implemented method for machine learning
Publication Date: 2024.01.25 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US20240028936A1 patent drawing
  • US20240028936A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A device and computer-implemented method for machine learning. A probabilistic model is provided, in particular a model that includes a probability distribution, preferably a Gaussian process or a Bayesian neural network, the model being defined as a function of at least one hyperparameter, in particular of the Gaussian process or of the Bayesian neural network. In one iteration, an instruction for a first measurement is determined and output as a function of the model. For the at least one hyperparameter an a posteriori distribution over values for the at least one hyperparameter being determined as a function of the first measurement. In another iteration, an instruction for a second measurement is determined and output as a function of the model. At least one value of the at least one hyperparameter is determined as a function of the second measurement.