A programmable neural virtual machine based on a fast store-erase learning rule.

Journal: Neural networks : the official journal of the International Neural Network Society
Published Date:

Abstract

We present a neural architecture that uses a novel local learning rule to represent and execute arbitrary, symbolic programs written in a conventional assembly-like language. This Neural Virtual Machine (NVM) is purely neurocomputational but supports all of the key functionality of a traditional computer architecture. Unlike other programmable neural networks, the NVM uses principles such as fast non-iterative local learning, distributed representation of information, program-independent circuitry, itinerant attractor dynamics, and multiplicative gating for both activity and plasticity. We present the NVM in detail, theoretically analyze its properties, and conduct empirical computer experiments that quantify its performance and demonstrate that it works effectively.

Authors

  • Garrett E Katz
    Department of Computer Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States. Electronic address: gkatz12@umd.edu.
  • Gregory P Davis
    Department of Computer Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA. Electronic address: gpdavis@cs.umd.edu.
  • Rodolphe J Gentili
    Department of Kinesiology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States; Neuroscience and Cognitive Science Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States; Maryland Robotics Center, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States. Electronic address: rodolphe@umd.edu.
  • James A Reggia
    Department of Computer Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.