Making AI Smarter by Focusing on Unsure 'Nodes'
This 2025 patent from D5AI LLC describes a way to train AI models more effectively by boosting the learning signal for 'nodes' that aren't making clear decisions on data.
Patent Number
US 12423586
Status
Active
Filing Date
January 30, 2025
Grant Date
September 23, 2025
Expiration
January 30, 2045
Claims
38
Assignee
D5AI
Inventors
James K. Baker
Citations
1 forward · 36 backward
What it covers
This patent explains a method for training artificial intelligence, specifically neural networks. When training an AI, it looks at individual 'nodes' (like tiny decision-makers within the AI) and checks if they are 'decisive' for a given piece of training data. If a node isn't clearly deciding one way or another – meaning its output doesn't strongly lean towards a specific outcome – the system then amplifies the learning signal for that node. This amplification is done by multiplying the 'partial derivative' (a measure of how much the AI's error would change if the node's output changed slightly) by a factor greater than 1.0. This helps the AI learn faster by focusing on the parts that are struggling to make a clear choice, using common training algorithms like stochastic gradient descent.
What it doesn't cover
- —Training methods that do not identify if a target node is 'not decisive'.
- —Methods where the learning signal for an undecided node is not multiplied by a factor greater than 1.0.
- —Training that only applies to neural networks with fewer than two layers.
- —Methods that do not involve a 'feed-forward' computation phase.
- —Methods that do not involve a 'back-propagation' computation phase.
- —Training where the 'partial derivative' is not computed for the target node.
The clever bit
The innovation lies in identifying AI 'nodes' that are ambivalent or uncertain about their decisions on specific data points, and then specifically boosting their learning rate. Instead of treating all nodes equally during training, it intelligently targets the ones that need more guidance.
Why it matters
As AI models become more complex, efficiently training them is crucial. This patent addresses a core challenge in AI development: ensuring that all parts of the model learn effectively. By focusing on nodes that are 'undecided,' this method aims to speed up the learning process and potentially lead to more robust and accurate AI systems, which are increasingly vital across many industries.
Real-world examples
- 1.Training large language models
- 2.Improving image recognition AI
- 3.Developing AI for autonomous vehicles
- 4.Optimizing AI in recommendation systems
Glossary
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US 12423586 · 2026