Uncertainty-Based Image Selection for Neural Network Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Annotating large training datasets for deep neural networks (DNNs) is time-consuming and resource-intensive, especially when training systems like autonomous vehicles that require thousands of annotated images to accurately detect objects in complex environments.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced where a DNN is trained using a first annotated dataset, then tested on a second unannotated dataset to identify images producing the most uncertainty, which are subsequently annotated and used for further training, reducing the need for extensive annotation and minimizing computing resources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a large annotated training dataset is used to train deep neural networks for accurate object detection, then the accuracy and reliability of object detection is improved, but the time and computing resources required for annotation and training increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of object detectionVSAvoidtime required for annotation and training
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary testing of the DNN on unannotated images from the second training dataset to identify which images produce the most uncertainty before actual annotation occurs. This preliminary action allows the system to prioritize annotation efforts on the most critical images, reducing overall annotation time while maintaining training accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses uncertainty measurements from the DNN's predictions as feedback to guide the annotation process. By measuring uncertainty for each unannotated image and selecting only those with highest uncertainty for annotation, the system creates a feedback loop that optimizes the annotation-training cycle, reducing time loss while preserving reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If a large annotated training dataset is used to train deep neural networks, then the accuracy and reliability of object detection is improved, but the computing resources and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of object detectionVSAvoidcomputing resources required for training
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts only the most critical unannotated images from the second training dataset based on uncertainty measurements. By taking out only the top uncertain images for annotation rather than processing the entire dataset, the system reduces computing resource consumption while maintaining the quality and reliability of training outcomes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of annotating the entire second training dataset, the system applies partial action by selecting only a subset of images with highest uncertainty. This partial annotation approach reduces computing resource requirements while still achieving sufficient training accuracy, avoiding the excessive action of full dataset annotation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Ease of manufacture

If the DNN is trained on unannotated images without uncertainty-based selection, then the training process is simpler, but the accuracy and reliability of object detection deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of training processVSAvoidaccuracy of object detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates uncertainty measurements as feedback to guide image selection for annotation. This feedback mechanism automatically identifies which unannotated images are most valuable for training, maintaining training simplicity while improving reliability through intelligent, automated selection rather than manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12020475B2Neural network training
Publication Date: 2024.06.25 GEORGIA TECH RES CORP
  • US12020475B2 patent drawing
  • US12020475B2 patent drawing
  • US12020475B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A deep neural network (DNN) can be trained based on a first training dataset that includes first images including annotated first objects. The DNN can be tested based on the first training dataset to determine first object predictions including first uncertainties. The DNN can be tested by inputting a second training dataset and outputting first object predictions including second uncertainties, wherein the second training dataset includes second images including unannotated second objects. A subset of images included in the second training dataset can be selected based on the second uncertainties, The second objects in the selected subset of images included in the second training dataset can be annotated. The DNN can be trained based on the selected subset of images included in the second training dataset including the annotated second objects.