Automating Neural Model Selection in Spiking Neural Networks Using AutoML Techniques*

The selection of optimal neural models in Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs) traditionally depends on a trial-and-error approach, which is both time-consuming and sometimes tends to suboptimal selection of the neural model. This research study explores the integration of Automated Machine Learning (AutoML) techniques into SNNs to simplify the process of designing an SNN model by automatically selecting the most optimal neural model. For example, in traditional neural networks, AutoML proves that it has the potential to significantly reduce the time and effort required to identify the best-performing architectures, by automating the selection and updating of loss functions and hyper-parametric values. To this end, we present a stand-alone framework for applying AutoML in SNNs, highlighting how this approach can improve accuracy, efficiency, and reliability in the selection process of optimal neural models, as these neural models are the core principle of designing SNN architecture. The proposed method not only accelerates the development of SNN models but also enhances their performance by systematically identifying optimal configurations that might be overlooked through manual methods. Therefore, to validate our approach, the proposed architecture was tested using different well-known benchmarks with different sets of neurons, ranging from 100 to 3000 neurons, and demonstrated state-of-the-art results in image classification tasks.