Neural Network Training Mechanism for Constraint-Adaptive Layouts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current data processing systems, particularly in graphics processing, face challenges in efficiently training deep neural networks (DNNs) while adhering to compute and memory constraints, and existing methods do not effectively optimize network layouts and parameters for inference tasks.

Innovation Solution

A mechanism is disclosed for training deep neural networks that automatically determines the best network layout and parameters based on given constraints, incorporating a compression mechanism during training to optimize for both accuracy and resource limitations, using genetic algorithms and bit-granular data types to reduce memory bandwidth and improve training efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If deep neural networks are trained with high accuracy requirements, then model performance improves, but memory bandwidth consumption and computational overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel accuracyVSAvoidmemory bandwidth consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by using bit-granular data types (e.g., converting from 32-bit floating point to lower precision formats) to reduce the memory bandwidth required for training while maintaining acceptable model accuracy. This allows the system to train deeper networks with more parameters without proportionally increasing memory bandwidth consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The training process is segmented into multiple stages: initial training with higher precision, followed by progressive precision reduction and compression. This segmentation allows the model to first learn accurate representations, then be optimized for efficient deployment with reduced precision formats.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If network depth and parameter count are increased, then model accuracy improves, but training time and computational resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel accuracyVSAvoidtraining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-defining compression ratios and precision reduction schedules before training begins. This allows the training process to be optimized from the start, avoiding iterative adjustments and reducing overall training time while achieving the desired model accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The training process dynamically adjusts precision requirements at different training stages. Early training stages use higher precision for accurate gradient computation, while later stages employ lower precision, creating a dynamic balance between accuracy and training efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Quantity of substance

If compression is applied during training, then memory bandwidth is reduced, but model accuracy may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvememory bandwidthVSAvoidmodel accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial compression during training rather than full compression throughout. By applying compression selectively and progressively, the system achieves significant memory bandwidth reduction while maintaining model accuracy through carefully controlled precision reduction that doesn't excessively degrade the learning process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

4Adaptability or versatility

If automatic network layout determination is implemented, then adaptability to constraints improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstraint adherenceVSAvoidtraining system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service by automatically determining optimal network layouts and precision configurations based on given constraints without requiring manual intervention. The training mechanism autonomously adjusts architecture parameters, precision levels, and compression ratios to satisfy memory and compute constraints, reducing the need for complex external optimization tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11580361B2Neural network training mechanism
Publication Date: 2023.02.14 INTEL CORP
  • US11580361B2 patent drawing
  • US11580361B2 patent drawing
  • US11580361B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus to facilitate neural network (NN) training is disclosed. The apparatus includes training logic to receive one or more network constraints and train the NN by automatically determining a best network layout and parameters based on the network constraints.