Contents
Chapter I: Neural Net Overview
This chapter gives general information on neural networks. Besides the introduction of several neural net types, the different learning algorithms, suitable for the different net types, are also explained.
The chapter is divided into the following sections:
» The biological model: The human brain
» The components of a neural net
» What they can and where they fail
» What does "learning" mean refering to neural nets?
Chapter II: Class Structure
This chapter shows the structure of the implemented classes. At the beginning you will find a description of object orientation, for I used this method to design the featured classes. After an overview of all classes and the relationships between them, each class will be explained in greater detail.
The chapter is divided into the following sections:
Chapter III: Using the Classes
This chapter explains how to work with the implemented classes. First there are a few words about Java, the language I used to implement them. After a description of some basic aspects of Java, it is then shown how to use the neural network classes in your own programs.
The chapter is divided into the following sections:
Using the classes in your own programs
» Using the BackpropagationNet class
» The structure of a conversion file
» The structure of a pattern file
Chapter IV: Sample Applet
This chapter presents a Java applet that uses some of the implemented classes. The applet demonstrates a Kohonen Feature Map that learns to span itself over a given set of points in three-dimensional space. Several parameters of the neural net can be changed while the example is running.
You will find a more detailed description of the neural net's purpose and the applet's controls included in this page.
Appendix A: Glossary
This appendix explains expressions that are relevant in neural net theory. The chapters have several links to the entries on this page. Once you have been transferred to the glossary page that way, click the right mouse key and choose 'Back' to return to where you came from.
Note that you can jump directly to a specific letter using the links in this page's title bar instead of scrolling down the whole page.
This appendix shows the literature I used while developing. Listed are books and World Wide Web addresses, if a source is available online. As we all know, such addresses are changing sometimes. Due to that fact, I added the date of my last visit on a certain page.
