Abstract: For the structure design of echo state network (ESN), a novel hierarchical modular echo state network (HMESN) based on brain networks is established. The topology of brain networks makes functional networks with rich dynamic behavior. Therefore, from a biological bionic point of view, the reservoir of HMESN for hierarchical design, each level of neurons using small world network construction algorithm to generate modular structure, as well as considered the hierarchical connection .Based on the topological characteristics of hierarchical modular in brain network, it weakens the coupling intensity among neurons, and enriches the dynamics of internal neurons. HMESN’s reservoir is closer to the real biological neural networks from both structural and functional perspectives, which effectively improves the information processing ability of network. Finally, this proposed network is used for the Mackey-Glass time series prediction and the non-linear system identification to prove its validity and feasibility.

Key words: brain networks, echo state network, reservoir, time series prediction