Machine Learning Node Training With Fixed Function Logical Representation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for computer vision tasks in embedded devices face challenges due to resource constraints, as machine learning processes struggle to replicate the operations of fixed function nodes, which are fixed in silicon, leading to inefficiencies in power, space, and latency.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an end-to-end training method for a machine learning node that interfaces with a logical representation of a fixed function node, allowing the machine learning node to parameterize its usage through software emulation, thereby optimizing resource consumption and improving performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If machine learning processes are used to solve computer vision tasks in embedded devices, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but resource consumption (power, space, latency) increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the computer vision processing into two distinct parts: a fixed function node that handles resource-intensive, deterministic operations, and a machine learning node that handles adaptive, learning-based operations. This segmentation allows each component to operate in its optimal efficiency zone, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A logical representation layer is introduced as an intermediary between the fixed function node and the machine learning node. This logical representation enables the machine learning node to interface with and control the fixed function node's operations, allowing efficient coordination and resource management between the two heterogeneous components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Power

If fixed function nodes are used in embedded devices, then power consumption and latency are reduced, but adaptability and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower efficiencyVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixed function node is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing multiple computer vision operations through a unified interface. The logical representation layer enables the same hardware infrastructure to support various processing tasks, enhancing versatility without sacrificing power efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The logical representation acts as an intermediary that translates machine learning node requirements into fixed function node operations. This intermediary layer enables the fixed function node to adapt to different machine learning models and tasks while maintaining its power-efficient, deterministic execution characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If machine learning nodes interface directly with fixed function nodes, then operational efficiency is improved, but training complexity increases due to the fixed nature of silicon operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidtraining complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A logical representation (software emulation) of the fixed function node is created as a copy that can be used during training. This logical copy replicates the fixed function node's behavior and interface, allowing the machine learning node to be trained on actual hardware characteristics without the complexity of direct hardware training, thereby reducing training complexity while maintaining operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

4Adaptability or versatility

If software emulation of fixed function nodes is implemented, then machine learning node parameterization is enabled, but computational overhead during training increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameterization capabilityVSAvoidtraining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The software emulation creates a virtual model of the fixed function node that can be efficiently executed during training. This copy allows for rapid iteration and parameter optimization without the constraints of actual hardware reconfiguration, enabling comprehensive parameterization while managing training time through efficient software implementation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS11341373B1End-to-end training of a machine learning node that interfaces with a fixed function node
Publication Date: 2022.05.24 APPLE INC
  • US11341373B1 patent drawing
  • US11341373B1 patent drawing
  • US11341373B1 patent drawing

AI summary

In some implementations, a method includes: obtaining a logical representation of a fixed function node; generating, by concerted operation of the logical representation of the fixed function node and a machine learning node that interfaces with the logical representation of the fixed function node, a candidate result based on a set of image data frames; determining whether error criteria are satisfied based at least in part on a comparison between the candidate result and a predetermined result for the set of image data frames; and, in response to determining that the error criteria are satisfied, modifying at least one of: a first portion of operating parameters of the machine learning node associated with operations of the machine learning node; and a second portion of operating parameters of the machine learning node associated with interfacing operations between the machine learning node and the logical representation of the fixed function node.