Neuron Circuit Stochastic Synapse Weight Learning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for implementing spiking neural networks (SNNs) require excessive calculations and large memory for storing synaptic weight values, limiting learning speed and increasing costs.

Innovation Solution

A neuron circuit with sub-circuits for determining active signals, comparing cumulative reception counters with threshold values, and performing potentiating and depressing learning processes based on probability values to adjust synaptic weights, reducing memory requirements and improving learning efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing deterministic methods are used for SNN implementation, then learning accuracy can be maintained, but memory requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelearning accuracyVSAvoidmemory requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of synaptic weight representation from deterministic continuous values to stochastic binary values (0 or 1). This parameter change reduces memory requirements while maintaining learning accuracy through probabilistic computation that mimics biological neural behavior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs simple binary synapse states (active/inactive) that can be easily flipped and reset, replacing complex continuous weight storage. This allows for more efficient memory usage and faster learning dynamics, as the system can quickly adapt synapse states without requiring large memory capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Reliability

If existing methods are used for SNN implementation, then comprehensive learning can be achieved, but calculation requirements become excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelearning capabilityVSAvoidcalculation requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex deterministic calculation mechanisms with stochastic probabilistic mechanisms. Instead of performing extensive mathematical computations to determine weight updates, the system uses random number generation and simple threshold comparisons, dramatically reducing calculation requirements while preserving learning capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The learning process becomes self-organizing through stochastic mechanisms. The system automatically adjusts synapse states based on probabilistic rules and input patterns without requiring intensive external control or computation, allowing the network to self-learn efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If existing deterministic methods are used, then precise weight control is possible, but learning speed decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight control precisionVSAvoidlearning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic learning updates where synapse states are adjusted at discrete time points based on accumulated input patterns. This periodic stochastic updating mechanism enables faster learning by allowing parallel updates across multiple synapses simultaneously, rather than requiring sequential precise adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static precise weight values to dynamic stochastic binary states that can rapidly flip between 0 and 1. This dynamic behavior allows the network to adapt quickly to new patterns, significantly increasing learning speed while the probabilistic nature maintains sufficient control precision for effective learning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11301753B2Neuron circuit, system, and method with synapse weight learning
Publication Date: 2022.04.12 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11301753B2 patent drawing
  • US11301753B2 patent drawing
  • US11301753B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A neuron circuit performing synapse learning on weight values includes a first sub-circuit, a second sub-circuit, and a third sub-circuit. The first sub-circuit is configured to receive an input signal from a pre-synaptic neuron circuit and determine whether the received input signal is an active signal having an active synapse value. The second sub-circuit is configured to compare a first cumulative reception counter of active input signals with a learning threshold value based on results of the determination. The third sub-circuit is configured to perform a potentiating learning process based on a first probability value to set a synaptic weight value of at least one previously received input signal to an active value, upon the first cumulative reception counter reaching the learning threshold value, and perform a depressing learning process based on a second probability value to set each of the synaptic weight values to an inactive value.