Evolving pattern recognition systems

A hybrid evolutionary learning algorithm is presented that synthesizes a complete multiclass pattern recognition system. The approach uses a multifaceted representation that evolves layers of processing to perform feature extraction from raw input data, select cooperative sets of feature detectors, and assemble a linear classifier that uses the detectors' responses to label targets. The hybrid algorithm, called hybrid evolutionary learning for pattern recognition (HELPR), blends elements of evolutionary programming, genetic programming, and genetic algorithms to perform a search for an effective set of feature detectors. Individual detectors are represented as expressions composed of morphological and arithmetic operations. Starting with a few small random expressions, HELPR expands the number and complexity of the features to produce a recognition system that achieves high accuracy. Results are presented that demonstrate the performance of HELPR-generated recognition systems applied to the task of classification of high-range resolution radar signals.