Learning Machine On-the-fly Request for LLN Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Low Power and Lossy Networks (LLNs) face challenges in using learning machines due to inefficiencies of classic algorithms and the inability to process large amounts of data for predicting network behavior, especially with changing conditions and large network sizes.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of on-the-fly request mechanisms for supervised learning in learning machines, allowing them to dynamically connect with human experts for supervision when encountering unrecognized data, using a central management node to receive information and assist in data recognition.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If learning machines are deployed in LLNs to handle complex network management tasks, then adaptability and intelligence improve, but device complexity and processing requirements increase beyond the capabilities of constrained nodes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the learning machine functionality into two segments: a constrained implementation running on LLN nodes with limited capabilities, and a more sophisticated implementation running on external servers or cloud platforms. This segmentation allows constrained nodes to benefit from advanced ML capabilities without bearing the full computational burden, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A gateway or border router acts as an intermediary between constrained LLN nodes and external learning machine services. The intermediary handles complex processing tasks, model training, and data analysis, while constrained nodes only perform lightweight inference or data collection. This intermediary approach enables advanced adaptability without increasing the complexity of individual constrained nodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If classic algorithms are used in LLNs, then device complexity remains low, but productivity and efficiency deteriorate due to inability to process large amounts of network data

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveproductivityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments data processing tasks: constrained nodes perform lightweight local processing and data collection, while external servers handle heavy computational tasks such as training sophisticated models and analyzing large datasets. This segmentation enables high productivity through advanced algorithms without requiring constrained nodes to have high processing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Constrained nodes perform partial processing of network data locally, filtering and preprocessing information before transmission to external servers. This partial action at the edge reduces the computational burden on external servers while maintaining high productivity, as the most computationally intensive tasks are handled externally rather than requiring excessive local processing power.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Measurement precision

If supervised learning with human expert input is implemented, then measurement precision and classification accuracy improve, but loss of time increases due to external consultation requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclassification accuracyVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Human experts pre-label training data and create initial classification models before deployment. This preliminary action allows the learning machine to operate autonomously with high accuracy for common patterns without requiring real-time human intervention. The system only consults human experts when encountering uncertain or novel cases, thus maintaining high classification accuracy while minimizing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where human experts review and correct classifications only when the learning machine's confidence falls below a threshold. This selective feedback approach maintains high classification accuracy for well-understood patterns while avoiding time loss through unnecessary human consultation. The feedback loop continuously improves model accuracy over time, reducing the frequency of expert intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9652720B2Triggering on-the-fly requests for supervised learning of learning machines
Publication Date: 2017.05.16 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US9652720B2 patent drawing
  • US9652720B2 patent drawing
  • US9652720B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one embodiment, network data is received at a Learning Machine (LM) in a network. It is determined whether the LM recognizes the received network data based on information available to the LM. When the LM fails to recognize the received network data: a connection to a central management node is established, a request is sent for information relating to the unrecognized network data to the central management node, and information is received from the central management node in response to the request. The received information assists the LM in recognizing the unrecognized network data.