Systems and methods for tractable variational approximation...

Details Systems and methods for tractable variational approximation... Systems and methods for tractable variational approximation...

2007-02-27

2007-02-27

Hirl, Joseph P (Department: 2129)

Data processing: artificial intelligence

Knowledge processing system

Knowledge representation and reasoning technique

C706S012000, C706S014000, C706S052000

Reexamination Certificate

active

10458166

ABSTRACT:
The present invention leverages approximations of distributions to provide tractable variational approximations, based on at least one continuous variable, for inference utilization in Bayesian networks where local distributions are decision-graphs. These tractable approximations are employed in lieu of exact inferences that are normally NP-hard to solve. By utilizing Jensen's inequality applied to logarithmic distributions composed of a generalized sum including an introduced arbitrary conditional distribution, a means is acquired to resolve a tightly bound likelihood distribution. The means includes application of Mean-Field Theory, approximations of conditional probability distributions, and/or other means that allow for a tractable variational approximation to be achieved.

REFERENCES:
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Michael I. Jordan, Zoubin Ghahramani, Tommi S. Jaakkola and Lawrence K. Saul, “An Introduction to Variational Methods for Graphical Models”, Aug. 16, 2001, 52 pages.

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