Constructive modular neural networks for system modeling and control

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Date
2004-04
Authors
Chu Kiong, Loo
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This thesis has its main focus on the development of novel neural networks for system modeling and control based on constructive learning. Two aspects of neural networks, viz. the modular structure design and the constructive algorithm are dealt with comprehensively. In line with the modular paradigm of decomposition strategy in particular and 'Divide and conquer' in general, the proposed network is strengthened with 'expertise level' gating module, in addition to 'expertise domain' gating function which provides crucial information to remove redundant local experts. In addition, the importance of network structure as part of the learning process is highlighted. This leads to the ~evelopment of a constructive learning modular neural network called Qrowing Multi-Experts Network (GMN). A whole gamut of local experts insertion method is further investigated which includes, perception based insertion, errcr-driven based insertion and novelty-based insertion. GMN employs hybrid unsupervised and supervised learning J?I'Ocess in which the novel unsupervised algorithm called Growing Neural Gas i.l-implemented. The network is built constructively based on perception-based insertion. In addition, a confidence interval estimator is embedded into GMN to quantify the reliability of GMN. Furthermore, the Self-regulating Growing Multi-Experts Network (SGMN) that utilizes error-driven criteria for local experts insertion is also devised. The error-driven insertion of SGMN is known as batch-mode insertion method and is not suitable for xix incremental learning that requires insertion based on the novelty of an input pattern. Therefore, the Incremental GMN (IGMN) that utilizes novelty-based insertion is developed and tested with benchmark problems. IGMN employs supervised learning and uses certainty factor as the local expert insertion criterion. Besides, IGMN is equipped with a robust learning algorithm to alleviate the effects of outliers. A variety of system modeling and control tasks has been investigated to assess the practical applicability ofthe SGMN and IGMN models. The experiments reveal the potential of SGMN and IGMN as building blocks for system identification and control applications. In contrast with th~ other existing modular neural network, GMN, SGMN and IGMN allow interpolation among the local experts in a variety of ways instead of a unique way. The network approximation capability is thus enhanced considerably as a result of this generalization.
Description
Keywords
Modular neural networks , System modeling
Citation