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SpikingLab: modelling agents controlled by Spiking Neural Networks in Netlogo

Authors :
Jimenez-Romero, Cristian
Johnson, Jeffrey
Source :
Neural Computing & Applications
Publication Year :
2016
Publisher :
Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2016.

Abstract

The scientific interest attracted by Spiking Neural Networks (SNN) has lead to the development of tools for the simulation and study of neuronal dynamics ranging from phenomenological models to the more sophisticated and biologically accurate Hodgkin-and-Huxley-based and multi-compartmental models. However, despite the multiple features offered by neural modelling tools, their integration with environments for the simulation of robots and agents can be challenging and time consuming. The implementation of artificial neural circuits to control robots generally involves the following tasks: (1) understanding the simulation tools, (2) creating the neural circuit in the neural simulator, (3) linking the simulated neural circuit with the environment of the agent and (4) programming the appropriate interface in the robot or agent to use the neural controller. The accomplishment of the above-mentioned tasks can be challenging, especially for undergraduate students or novice researchers. This paper presents an alternative tool which facilitates the simulation of simple SNN circuits using the multi-agent simulation and the programming environment Netlogo (educational software that simplifies the study and experimentation of complex systems). The engine proposed and implemented in Netlogo for the simulation of a functional model of SNN is a simplification of integrate and fire (I&F) models. The characteristics of the engine (including neuronal dynamics, STDP learning and synaptic delay) are demonstrated through the implementation of an agent representing an artificial insect controlled by a simple neural circuit. The setup of the experiment and its outcomes are described in this work.

Details

ISSN :
14333058 and 09410643
Volume :
28
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Neural Computing and Applications
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....7afdd383c2e7c351b846cfb0ad9cd2ba
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00521-016-2398-1