An efficient hidden layer training method for the multilayer perceptron

The output-weight-optimization and hidden-weight-optimization (OWO–HWO) training algorithm for the multilayer perceptron alternately solves linear equations for output weights and reduces a separate hidden layer error function with respect to hidden layer weights. Here, three major improvements are made to OWO–HWO. First, a desired net function is derived. Second, using the classical mean square error, a weighted hidden layer error function is derived which de-emphasizes net function errors that correspond to saturated activation function values. Third, an adaptive learning factor based on the local shape of the error surface is used in hidden layer training. Faster learning convergence is experimentally verified, using three training data sets.