Neural Network Training Mitigating Catastrophic Forgetting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Neural networks face the 'catastrophic forgetting' problem when learning new classes, where previously learned information is forgotten due to continuous training, leading to decreased recognition accuracy for previously learned classes.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a first and second learning network model, where feature information from a query image is used to generate an image reflecting the previously learned class, and the models' weights are updated based on differences between the query and generated images, iteratively refining the generated image to minimize loss and preserve features of the query image.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the neural network is continuously trained with new class data, then the recognition accuracy for new classes is improved, but the recognition accuracy for previously learned classes deteriorates due to catastrophic forgetting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecognition accuracy for new classesVSAvoidrecognition accuracy for previously learned classes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The method performs preliminary action by generating synthetic training data for new classes before actual training occurs. The GAN generates images that represent new classes in advance, allowing the network to prepare for learning new concepts without immediately overwriting existing knowledge. This proactive data preparation helps mitigate catastrophic forgetting by establishing a foundation for incremental learning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The GAN creates copies or synthetic representations of new class data through generated images. Instead of requiring actual new training data that might conflict with existing knowledge, the system creates artificial copies that capture the essential features of new classes. These synthetic copies serve as safe training material that can be integrated without causing catastrophic forgetting of original classes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If the neural network is trained incrementally with additional classes, then the ability to recognize new classes is improved, but the previously learned information is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to recognize new classesVSAvoidpreviously learned information
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The GAN acts as an intermediary between new class concepts and the existing neural network. Instead of directly training the network with new data that causes information loss, the GAN generates intermediate synthetic data that bridges the gap. This intermediary layer allows incremental learning to proceed while protecting previously learned information from being overwritten or forgotten.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The method changes the parameters or characteristics of training data by generating synthetic images with controlled features. Rather than using raw new class data that might cause catastrophic forgetting, the system transforms the data into a suitable form through GAN generation. This parameter transformation allows the network to learn new classes while maintaining stability in previously learned representations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional training methods are used for new classes, then the training process is simple, but catastrophic forgetting occurs leading to decreased performance on old classes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of training processVSAvoidrecognition accuracy across all classes
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically generating its own training data through the GAN. Instead of requiring manual preparation of new class data or complex external interventions to prevent catastrophic forgetting, the network serves itself by creating appropriate training examples. This self-generated data approach maintains training simplicity while improving reliability across all classes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The method implements feedback by using the neural network's own performance and feature extractions to guide the GAN data generation process. The network's feature extractor provides feedback about what characteristics are important, and the GAN uses this feedback to generate appropriate synthetic data. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains simplicity while preventing catastrophic forgetting through intelligent data synthesis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11449733B2Neural network learning method and device for recognizing class
Publication Date: 2022.09.20 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11449733B2 patent drawing
  • US11449733B2 patent drawing
  • US11449733B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a neural network training device for recognizing a class of an object included in an image based on an artificial intelligence (AI) system and an application thereof, the neural network training method including: acquiring, by using a first learning network model trained based on source training images respectively included in at least one class, feature information of a query image included in a class different from the at least one class; obtaining a generated image from the feature information of the query image by using a second learning network model acquiring feature information of the obtained generated image by using the first learning network model; and updating weights of layers respectively included in the first and second learning network models, based on a difference between the feature information of the query image and the feature information of the generated image and on a difference between the query image and the generated image.