Adaptive error-constrained backpropagation algorithm

In order to accelerate the convergence speed of the conventional BP algorithm, constrained optimization techniques are applied to the BP algorithm. First, the noise-constrained least mean square algorithm and the zero noise-constrained LMS algorithm are applied (designated the NCBP and ZNCBP algorithms, respectively). These methods involve an important assumption: the filter or the receiver in the NCBP algorithm must know the noise valance. By means of extention and generalization of these algorithms, the authors derive an adaptive error-constrained BP algorithm and its simplified algorithm, in which the error variance is estimated. This is achieved by modifying the error function of the conventional BP algorithm using Lagrangian multipliers. The convergence speeds of the proposed algorithms are 20 to 30 times faster than those of the conventional BP algorithm, and are faster than or almost the same as that achieved with a conventional linear adaptive filter using an LMS algorithm.