In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has predominantly been associated with supercomputers and massive data centers, often perceived as a distant innovation unattainable for everyday use. However, a groundbreaking project led by Kennesaw State University (KSU) researcher Bobin Deng is poised to change this narrative. With the backing of a new National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, Deng aims to democratize AI by making it more accessible through personal devices, thus bringing it to the forefront of daily life.
### Rethinking AI Infrastructure
Bobin Deng is an assistant professor in KSU’s College of Computing and Software Engineering. His research seeks to transcend the limitations of current AI systems, which largely depend on powerful servers found in data centers. By shifting AI functionality to personal devices—such as smartphones, drones, and industrial sensors—Deng envisions a future where AI tools can operate independently of internet connectivity, a feature that remains scarce among existing applications.
“Most of today’s AI runs on large, expensive servers,” Deng states. “But many applications don’t need that level of computing power. If we can run AI directly on devices, we eliminate reliance on costly supercomputers and make AI faster and more accessible in many scenarios.”
### Activation Sparsity: A New Approach
Central to Deng’s innovative research is the concept of activation sparsity. This technique allows only a fraction of the neurons in an AI model to be activated at any one time, while the rest remain inactive. By predicting which data entries will be required in advance, this method reduces memory usage, enhances processing speed, and decreases energy consumption.
“Other methods to shrink models involve lowering data precision or pruning less significant parameters,” explains Deng. “Our approach differs in that we forecast which values will be activated, allowing us to integrate our method with existing strategies like pruning or quantization, resulting in even more efficient models.”
### Real-World Applications
The implications of Deng’s research are vast, with potential applications that could redefine various industries. The project will specifically focus on testing tiny machine-learning models that serve as predictors for larger systems. This capability opens doors for embedding AI in everyday devices, fostering functionalities that can vastly improve sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and logistics.
By creating an open-source simulator, Deng aims to enable other researchers and students to explore and refine this groundbreaking technology, furthering collaboration and innovation in the realm of AI.
### Educational Impacts
The NSF grant not only supports Deng’s research but also has educational ramifications. It benefits students enrolled in KSU’s new Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence program, equipping them with insights and skills that align with contemporary industry needs. Furthermore, the research underscores KSU’s commitment to bridging academic pursuits with real-world applications, thus preparing students for the future of technology.
### University Support and Vision
Conducting his work in the Sustainable Smart System Lab on KSU’s Marietta Campus, Deng acknowledges the vital role that the university has played in facilitating his research. “The leadership here has been very supportive,” he remarks. “Whenever I have needed resources or assistance, from graduate assistants to proposal submissions, the university has been there to help.”
CCSE Interim Dean Yiming Ji celebrates Deng’s research as a testament to the college’s mission of advancing innovation. “Dr. Deng’s research represents the kind of forward-looking work that positions KSU as a leader in AI,” Ji remarks. He adds that the work addresses technical challenges while simultaneously creating real-world opportunities for students, industry partners, and the broader community.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, Kennesaw State University’s Bobin Deng is at the forefront of a transformative approach to artificial intelligence, aiming to bring the power of this technology directly into the everyday lives of individuals through personal devices. His research not only challenges the conventional infrastructure of AI but also opens new pathways for innovation and education. With potential applications across various industries, this initiative exemplifies the future of technology—one where AI is not confined to the cloud but is an integral part of our daily interactions. As the field of AI continues to evolve, projects like Deng’s will be critical in shaping a more inclusive and accessible technological landscape.
Overall, Bobin Deng’s work at KSU illustrates a pivotal shift in the AI landscape, making it increasingly tangible and relevant to everyday experiences. As this research unfolds, it promises to democratize technology in ways that could radically transform our world.
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