Last Updated on: 21st November 2023, 08:41 pm
As an AI development company, DigitalSuits understands the power and potential of deep learning and neural networks. The human brain and its structure have been a source of inspiration for these technologies. But what exactly are neural networks and deep learning? How are they connected, and where do they differ? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of these technologies.
The Birth of Neural Networks
Since the time of Ancient Greece, mankind has dreamt of creating a machine capable of thinking independently. This dream led to the development of the world’s first known computer, the Antikythera Mechanism, a marvel of ancient technology that wasn’t fully understood until 2022.
A neural network is a computer system designed following the human brain and nervous system, aiming to create a more organic data transmission similar to our brain’s neuronal signaling.
The Structure of Neural Networks
Nodes in a neural network have a defined threshold. If the threshold is reached, the node transmits the data. If not, the data remains in the network layer until triggered. Neural networks can have as many layers as needed to learn or complete tasks.
Each node performs as a separate linear regression model. It includes input data, weights, biases or thresholds, and the expected output. Although it seems complex, the ultimate goal is to create an artificial brain that works smoothly without understanding the underlying coding.
Neural Networks vs. The Human Brain
The term “neural network” can be misleading, as it doesn’t represent the design of human neurons accurately. It would require an immensely powerful neural network to replace just one human neuron. In a biological brain, shallow neural networks only have three layers—an input, a hidden layer, and an output.
These primary networks resemble biological neurons, although they process significantly less data. Biological neurons work on an “integrate and fire” model. If the total excitatory input minus inhibitory input exceeds the biological threshold, the neuron fires.
However, this model ceases to function when you add more hidden layers to create a deep neural network. Studies show that to simulate the processing power of complex neurons, an artificial equivalent would need at least seven layers, each with 128 units.
The Human Brain as a Deep Learning Network
This comparison leads to an intriguing conclusion—the human brain is a vast deep learning network. An average human brain has over 10 billion neurons. To replicate this in an artificial neural network, each neuron would require a deep learning system with at least seven full hidden layers.
Deep Learning Demystified
Deep learning and neural networks are often used interchangeably. However, deep learning is defined as “a subfield of machine learning concerned with algorithms inspired by the structure and function of the human brain.” So while every deep learning system is a neural network, not every neural network is a deep learning system.
Deep learning can be seen as the core component of an artificial intelligence nesting doll. The largest doll is artificial intelligence, within that is machine learning, and within machine learning, you’ll find neural networks. Deep learning lies at the very center of it all.
The Impact of Neural Networks and Deep Learning
Though they may sound like concepts from a science fiction movie, neural networks and deep learning are already significantly impacting our lives. Technologies like computer vision and speech recognition use neural networks and various machine learning algorithms to enhance the user experience. Even Google’s search algorithms heavily rely on neural networks.
However, one downside is that these systems learn slowly, and introducing new data comes with a steep learning curve. This is why your phone’s voice-to-text takes time to adapt to your speech patterns or dialect choices.
Future Implications
Neural networks and deep learning, though distinct, are two interconnected parts of the same puzzle. These complex algorithms form the foundation for artificial intelligence and related technologies that are shaping the future.
As a custom AI development company, DigitalSuits is at the forefront of this exciting journey into the future of technology. We understand the intricacies of machine learning, deep learning, and neural networks, and we strive to leverage these technologies to drive innovation and deliver value to our clients.
With every stride we take in this field, we inch closer to the dream of creating a machine that thinks, learns, and perhaps one day, understands the world as we do.
