Abstract: 

In this workshop you will discover how machines can learn complex behaviors and anticipatory actions. Using this approach autonomous helicopters fly aerobatic maneuvers and even the GO world champion was beaten with it. A training dataset containing the “right” answers is not needed, nor is “hard-coded” knowledge. The approach is called “reinforcement learning” and is almost magical.

Using TF-Agents on top of TensorFlow 2.0 we will see how a real-life problem can be turned into a reinforcement learning task. In an accompanying Python notebook, we implement - step by step - all solution elements, highlight the design of Google’s newest reinforcement learning library, point out the role of neural networks and look at optimization opportunities.

The Python notebooks are hosted on Colab. All you need is a laptop with a current Chrome browser and a Google account. We also gladly discuss application ideas you - as an attendee - might bring along.

Prerequisites
Basic knowledge in software engineering. The implementation is done using TensorFlow 2.0, TF-Agents and Python. Prior knowledge of these is not mandatory.

Technical requirements
Notebook with a recent Chrome browser and a Google account.

Goals
• Basics of reinforcement learning
• When and when not to use it
• Design of TF-Agents on top of TensorFlow 2.0
• Hands-on Implementation

Bio: 

Oliver Zeigermann is a developer and consultant from Hamburg, Germany. He has been involved with AI since his studies in the 90s and has written several books and has recently published the "Deep Learning Crash Course" with Manning. More on http://zeigermann.eu/