On the dynamic neural network toolbox design for identification, estimation and control

Purpose: There are common problems in the identification of uncertain nonlinear systems, nonparametric approximation, state estimation, and automatic control. Dynamic neural network (DNN) approximation can simplify the development of all the aforementioned problems in either continuous or discrete systems. A DNN is represented by a system of differential or recurrent equations defined in the space of vector activation functions with weights and offsets that are functionally associated with the input data. Design/methodology/approach: This study describes the version of the toolbox, that can be used to identify the dynamics of the black box and restore the laws underlying the system using known inputs and outputs. Depending on the completeness of the information, the toolbox allows users to change the DNN structure to suit specific tasks. Findings: The toolbox consists of three main components: user layer, network manager, and network instance. The user layer provides high-level control and monitoring of system performance. The network manager serves as an intermediary between the user layer and the network instance, and allows the user layer to start and stop learning, providing an interface to indirectly access the internal data of the DNN. Research limitations/implications: Control capability is limited to adjusting a small number of numerical parameters and selecting functional parameters from a predefined list. Originality/value: The key feature of the toolbox is the possibility of developing an algorithmic semi-automatic selection of activation function parameters based on optimization problem solutions.