# An Empirical Study on Tensor Shape Faults in Deep Learning Systems

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2106.02887 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2106.02887/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 5 Jun 2021.

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [TorchLean: Formalizing Neural Networks in Lean](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2602.22631/) (2026)
- [On Security Weaknesses and Vulnerabilities in Deep Learning Systems](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2406.08688/) (2024)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Software developers frequently adopt deep learning (DL) libraries to incorporate learning solutions into software systems. However, misuses of these libraries can cause various DL faults. Among them, tensor shape faults are most prevalent. Tensor shape faults occur when restriction conditions of operations are not met, leading to many system crashes. To support efficient detection and fixing of these faults, we conduct an empirical study to obtain a deep insight. We construct SFData, a set of 146 buggy programs with crashing tensor shape faults (i.e., those causing programs to crash). By analyzing the faults in SFData, we categorize them into four types and get some valuable observations.