Spiking Neural Network Learning via Selective Neuron Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Spiking neural networks face challenges in achieving high accuracy and efficient learning due to issues like crosstalk between input subjects and inadequate determination of synaptic weights, leading to incomplete learning and decreased performance.

Innovation Solution

A learning method for spiking neural networks that involves first and second learning phases, where intermediate neurons are determined based on spike output signals, and synaptic weights are adjusted using the spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) algorithm, with additional learning focused on neurons that failed in the initial phase to improve accuracy and speed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If spiking neural networks use pulse type spike signals for information transfer, then power consumption is reduced, but learning accuracy and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidlearning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The learning process is segmented into multiple phases (first learning phase and second learning phase). In the first phase, all intermediate neurons undergo initial learning. In the second phase, only specific intermediate neurons that require additional training are selected and subjected to further learning. This segmentation allows the network to achieve high learning accuracy while maintaining energy efficiency by avoiding unnecessary learning operations on already-sufficient neurons.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of applying learning operations to all intermediate neurons uniformly, the patent applies partial action by selectively targeting only those neurons that need additional learning based on their spike output characteristics. This prevents excessive learning operations on neurons that have already achieved sufficient learning, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining learning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

2Reliability

If conventional learning methods are applied to all intermediate neurons, then learning completeness is improved, but learning efficiency and power consumption deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelearning completenessVSAvoidlearning efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the spike output signals of intermediate neurons are monitored and evaluated. Based on the number of spikes in output signals, the system determines which neurons require additional learning. This feedback-driven approach ensures that learning is applied only where needed, maintaining learning completeness while significantly improving learning efficiency and reducing power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of learning application from a static uniform approach to a dynamic selective approach. By using the number of spikes as a criterion parameter, the system adaptively determines which neurons should undergo learning in the second phase. This parameter-based selection ensures complete learning of necessary neurons while avoiding redundant operations, thus improving efficiency without sacrificing completeness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If uniform learning is applied to all neurons, then learning consistency is improved, but learning speed and adaptability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelearning consistencyVSAvoidlearning speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamics into the learning process by making the learning application adaptive rather than static. The second learning phase dynamically selects which intermediate neurons to train based on their individual spike output characteristics. This dynamic approach allows the network to maintain consistency in learning methodology while adapting to the specific needs of different neurons, thereby improving overall learning speed without sacrificing consistency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach enhances the learning efficiency and accuracy of spiking neural networks by selectively targeting neurons for additional training, reducing crosstalk and ensuring complete learning, thereby improving overall network performance.

Implementation Method 1

synaptic weights are adjusted using the spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) algorithm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP):

Data Source

PatentUS20220309326A1Learning method of neural network and neural processor
Publication Date: 2022.09.29 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US20220309326A1 patent drawing
  • US20220309326A1 patent drawing
  • US20220309326A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a learning method of a neural network which includes a first intermediate neuron layer and a second intermediate neuron layer. The method includes performing first learning, which is based on a first synaptic weight layer, with respect to input subjects and the first intermediate neuron layer, determining intermediate neurons, which will perform second learning, from among intermediate neurons of the first intermediate neuron layer, based on the number of spikes of each of spike output signals of the intermediate neurons of the first intermediate neuron layer, and performing the second learning, which is based on a second synaptic weight layer, with respect to the intermediate neurons determined to perform the second learning.