1. Introduction to CAP6938 Neuroevolution and Developmental Encoding
Dr. Kenneth Stanley
August 21, 2006

2. What Is this Class About?
The automated search for complexity
Complexification: How simple systems increase in complexity
Developmental Encoding: How complex systems can be represented efficiently
Focus on neural networks, but not exclusively
A path to solving AI

3. How Does this Relate to AI?
Human-level intelligence requires astronomical complexity
100 trillion connections in the human brain
Researchers are looking for the right parts and how to combine them
We can do it by analysis or through search
This class is about automating the search through evolution

4. Location within Science
Neuroevolution: Evolving Neural Networks
Biology AI EC
Neuroscience
NNs
Developmental Encoding
Consciousness?

5. Some Prior Class Projects
Guitar Distortion Effect Inducer
Alife World
Optimal Distributed Sensor Placement
Riot Simulation
Interactive Particle Effect Evolution
Interactive Drum Rhythm Evolution
Chord Progression Evolution
Space Video Game
Simulated 2D Robot Body Evolution (Sodarace)

6. Projects May Be Significant
Two invention disclosures
Several continued Ph.D. research topics