Implementation of factor graphs
First Claim
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1. A computer-implemented method for generating a hardware description of a belief propagation network, said method comprising:
- receiving an initial representation of a belief propagation network representing a graphical model for performing inference having a factor graph that includes a first class of nodes representing variables and a second class of nodes representing constraints between variables, the nodes being connected by edges;
receiving a specification indicating that that a hardware element is to be used to implement at least two nodes of said factor graph;
generating empty nodes for receiving information representative of hardware modules each having one or more hardware elements for physically implementing said nodes; and
on the basis of said initial representation and said specification, generating, by using a computer, a hardware representation of an electronic circuit for implementing said factor graph.
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Abstract
The process of implementing a belief propagation network in software and/or hardware can begin with a factor-graph-designer who designs a factor graph that implements that network. A development system provides a user with a way to specify a factor graph at a high or abstract level, and then solve the factor graph, or make an instance of the factor graph in software and/or hardware based on the specification. Factor graphs enable designers to create a graphical model of complicated belief propagation networks such as Markov chains, hidden Markov models, and Bayesian networks.
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Citations
22 Claims
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1. A computer-implemented method for generating a hardware description of a belief propagation network, said method comprising:
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receiving an initial representation of a belief propagation network representing a graphical model for performing inference having a factor graph that includes a first class of nodes representing variables and a second class of nodes representing constraints between variables, the nodes being connected by edges; receiving a specification indicating that that a hardware element is to be used to implement at least two nodes of said factor graph; generating empty nodes for receiving information representative of hardware modules each having one or more hardware elements for physically implementing said nodes; and on the basis of said initial representation and said specification, generating, by using a computer, a hardware representation of an electronic circuit for implementing said factor graph. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14)
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12. A non-transitory machine readable medium having instructions encoded thereon, said instructions, when executed by a data processing system, cause the system to
receive an initial representation of a belief propagation network representing a graphical model for performing inference having a factor graph that includes a first class of nodes representing variables and a second class of nodes representing constraints between variables, the nodes being connected by edges; -
receive a specification indicating that that a hardware element is to be used to implement at least two nodes of said factor graph; generate empty nodes for receiving information representative of hardware modules each having one or more hardware elements for physically implementing said nodes; and on the basis of said initial representation and said specification, generate a hardware representation of an electronic circuit for implementing said factor graph. - View Dependent Claims (13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22)
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Specification