Kernel Temporal Differences for Neural Decoding

Abstract

We study the feasibility and capability of the kernel temporal difference (KTD)(λ) algorithm for neural decoding. KTD(λ) is an online, kernel-based learning algorithm, which has been introduced to estimate value functions in reinforcement learning. This algorithm combines kernel-based representations with the temporal difference approach to learning. One of our key observations is that by using strictly positive definite kernels, algorithm’s convergence can be guaranteed for policy evaluation. The algorithm’s nonlinear functional approximation capabilities are shown in both simulations of policy evaluation and neural decoding problems (policy improvement). KTD can handle high-dimensional neural states containing spatial-temporal information at a reasonable computational complexity allowing real-time applications. When the algorithm seeks a proper mapping between a monkey’s neural states and desired positions of a computer cursor or a robot arm, in both open-loop and closed-loop experiments, it can effectively learn the neural state to action mapping. Finally, a visualization of the coadaptation process between the decoder and the subject shows the algorithm’s capabilities in reinforcement learning brain machine interfaces.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2015
Source ID
10.1155/2015/481375

Entities

People

  • Eric A. Pohlmeyer
  • Jihye Bae
  • Joseph T. Francis
  • José Príncipe
  • Justin C. Sanchez
  • Luis G. Sanchez Giraldo

Organizations

  • Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
  • SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University
  • University of Florida
  • University of Miami

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Parallel and Distributed Computing.
  • Vision Science/Vision Psychology/Cognitive Neuroscience.

Technology Areas

  • AI & ML
  • AI & ML - Machine Learning Algorithms
  • AI & ML - Neural Networks
  • Autonomy