Systematic analysis of FPGA-based hardware accelerators for convolutional neural networks

Abstract

In the modern era, machine learning stands as a pivotal component of artificial intelligence, exerting a profound impact on various domains. This article delineates a methodology for designing and applying Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) based hardware accelerators for convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Initially, this paper introduces CNNs, a subset of deep learning techniques, and underscore their pivotal role in artificial intelligence, spanning domains such as image recognition, speech processing, and natural language understanding. Subsequently, we delve into the intricacies of FPGA, an adaptable logic device characterized by high integration and versatility, elucidating our approach to creating a hardware accelerator tailored for CNNs on the FPGA platform. To enhance computational efficiency, we employ technical strategies like dual cache structures, loop unrolling, and loop tiling for accelerating the convolutional layers. Finally, through empirical experiments employing YOLOv2, and validate the efficacy and superiority of our designed hardware accelerator model. This paper anticipates that in the forthcoming years, the methodology and research into FPGA-based CNN hardware accelerators will yield even more substantial contributions, propelling the advancement and widespread adoption of deep learning technology.