Machine Learning Discovers Invariants of Braids and Flat Braids

We use machine learning to classify examples of braids (or flat braids) as trivial or non-trivial. Our machine learning takes the form of supervised learning, specifically multilayer perceptron neural networks. When they achieve good results in classification, we are able to interpret their structure as mathematical conjectures and then prove these conjectures as theorems. As a result, we find new invariants of braids and prove several theorems related to them. This work evolves from our experiments exploring how different types of AI cope with untangling braids with 3 strands, this is why we concentrate mostly on braids with 3 strands.