NeuroCOLT

Neural Networks and Computational Learning Theory

 

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NeuroCOLT Technical Report NC-TR-97-001

Multilayer neural networks: one or two hidden layers?

G. Brightwell
LSE
UK

C. Kenyon and H. Paugam-Moisy
ENS Lyon
France

Abstract
We study the number of hidden layers required by a multilayer neural network with threshold units to compute a function $f$ from ${\cal R}^d$ to $\{ 0,1 \}$. In dimension $d=2$, Gibson characterized the functions computable with just one hidden layer, under the assumption that there is no ``multiple intersection point" and that $f$ is only defined on a compact set. We consider the restriction of $f$ to the neighborhood of a multiple intersection point or of infinity, and give necessary and sufficient conditions for it to be locally computable with one hidden layer. We show that adding these conditions to Gibson's assumptions is not sufficient to ensure global computability with one hidden layer, by exhibiting a new non-local configuration, the ``critical cycle", which implies that $f$ is not computable with one hidden layer.

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