Distributed Machine Learning Model Layer Slicing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional centralized data centers face challenges with bandwidth limitations, latency issues, and network disruptions when processing large datasets from sensors and IoT devices, leading to unstable systems and increased strain on machine learning model workloads.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a distributed compute architecture that splits machine learning model layers across central and edge servers, where initial processing occurs at edge compute locations and results are further processed at central locations, reducing network traffic and latency through dynamic network slicing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If data is processed using a centralized data center architecture, then system management is simplified, but bandwidth limitations and latency issues occur when transferring large datasets

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem management complexityVSAvoiddata transfer speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the machine learning model into multiple layers and distributes them across edge compute locations and central compute locations. This segmentation allows data processing to occur at multiple distributed points rather than requiring all data to be transferred to a single centralized location, thereby improving data transfer speed while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular deployment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If complex machine learning models are deployed to increase processing capabilities, then analysis accuracy improves, but workload intensity and system strain increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis accuracyVSAvoidsystem workload capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent assigns different layers of the machine learning model to different compute locations based on their specific capabilities and characteristics. Edge compute locations handle initial processing layers locally, while central compute locations handle subsequent layers. This local quality approach allows the system to leverage the specific strengths of each location, maintaining high analysis accuracy while distributing workload to prevent any single point from becoming overwhelmed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Loss of time

If all machine learning model layers are processed at edge compute locations, then response time decreases, but processing accuracy may be compromised due to limited edge resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse timeVSAvoidprocessing accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a multi-dimensional processing architecture where model layers are distributed across both spatial dimensions (edge vs. central locations) and functional dimensions (different processing stages). This dimensional distribution allows the system to achieve fast response times by processing initial layers at edge locations while maintaining high accuracy by completing processing at central locations with greater computational resources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20250005320A1Slicing layers of machine learning models across distributed systems
Publication Date: 2025.01.02 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US20250005320A1 patent drawing
  • US20250005320A1 patent drawing
  • US20250005320A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented method, according to one embodiment, includes: processing a user request using a machine learning model having a plurality of layers. Processing the user request includes using information received at a central compute location to determine a first subset of the layers in the machine learning model, and a second subset of the layers in the machine learning model. Moreover, data corresponding to the user request is processed using the first subset of layers at an edge compute location. In response to receiving a result from the first subset of layers at the edge compute location, the result is processed using the second subset of layers at the central compute location. Furthermore, the user request is satisfied by outputting a result of the processing by the second subset of layers.