Layer-Wise Deep Learning Network Encoding for Efficient Decoding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Deep learning network models are too large to be stored in internal SRAM, leading to inefficient power consumption due to frequent access from external DRAM, and existing compression methods do not distinguish between layers, resulting in inefficient decoding processes.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for encoding and decoding deep learning networks in layer units using network, layer, and sub-layer header information, including specific details for distinguishing layers, such as layer ID, type, size, and tile partitioning, to create a bitstream that efficiently compresses and decompresses the network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If the deep learning network model is compressed without layer distinction, then the model size is reduced, but the decoding efficiency deteriorates since the whole model must be imported and decoded whenever every layer is processed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel sizeVSAvoiddecoding efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the compressed deep learning network model into layer-specific units, where each layer is independently compressed and stored with its own metadata. This allows individual layers to be decoded and processed separately without requiring the entire model to be loaded, thus improving decoding efficiency while maintaining compression benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Quantity of substance

If the deep learning network model is stored in external DRAM, then the model capacity requirement is met, but the power consumption increases due to frequent access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel storage capacityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the model into compressed layer units with embedded metadata, the system can load only the necessary layers into internal SRAM when needed, rather than frequently accessing the entire model from external DRAM. This reduces the access rate to external memory and lowers power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs compression and metadata embedding in advance during the model preparation phase. This preliminary action enables efficient layer-by-layer decoding during inference, reducing the need for frequent external memory accesses and thereby reducing power consumption during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If layer distinction information is added to the bitstream, then the decoding efficiency is improved, but the bitstream complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding efficiencyVSAvoidbitstream complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the bitstream into separate layer units, each containing its own metadata and compression information. This segmentation allows the decoder to process layers independently using simple, repetitive decoding logic, improving efficiency without requiring complex overall bitstream handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each layer unit in the bitstream contains localized metadata and compression parameters specific to that layer. This local quality approach allows each layer to be decoded with optimized, simple rules tailored to its specific characteristics, improving decoding efficiency while keeping the overall bitstream structure manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS12530584B2Method and apparatus for encoding/decoding deep learning network
Publication Date: 2026.01.20 KOREA ELECTRONICS TECH INST
  • US12530584B2 patent drawing
  • US12530584B2 patent drawing
  • US12530584B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein are a method and apparatus for encoding/decoding a deep learning network. According to an embodiment, the method for decoding a deep learning network may include decoding network header information regarding the deep learning network; decoding layer header information regarding a plurality of layers in the deep learning network; decoding layer data information regarding specific information of the plurality of layers; and obtaining the deep learning network and a plurality of layers in the deep learning network, and the layer header information includes layer distinction information associated with distinguishing the plurality of layers.