Anomaly Detection Using Data Distribution Clustering

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing security systems in computing environments lack accuracy and automation in detecting outliers and anomalies in data distributions, making them ineffective in identifying unauthorized or malicious activities.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that classify and cluster datapoints to distinguish between natural and unnatural modes in data distributions, using techniques like k-means, Jenks Natural Breaks Optimization, or Kernel Density Estimation, to identify outliers and initiate appropriate actions such as notifications or security protocols.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If threshold-based outlier detection is used, then implementation is simple, but detection accuracy is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of implementationVSAvoiddetection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the detection approach by changing from fixed threshold parameters to dynamic statistical parameters (mean, standard deviation, interquartile range) that adapt to the actual data distribution, thereby improving detection accuracy while maintaining implementation feasibility through standardized statistical methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical threshold-based detection mechanism with a statistical model-based mechanism that uses probability distributions and variance analysis to identify outliers, substituting a rigid mechanical approach with a more flexible statistical approach that improves precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated outlier detection is implemented, then detection efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automated detection systems that self-adjust to data characteristics by automatically calculating statistical parameters and adapting detection thresholds based on the inherent properties of the monitored data, reducing the need for manual configuration and lowering operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary statistical analysis to establish baseline parameters and detection models before actual outlier detection begins, pre-processing the data to create adaptive thresholds that simplify subsequent automated detection operations and reduce real-time computational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If existing security systems are deployed, then basic monitoring is provided, but accuracy in identifying malicious activities is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebasic monitoring capabilityVSAvoidanomaly identification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from static threshold-based monitoring to dynamic adaptive monitoring that continuously adjusts detection parameters based on evolving data patterns and statistical characteristics, enabling the system to maintain reliability while significantly improving accuracy in identifying malicious activities through adaptive threshold adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11985153B2System and method for detecting anomalous activity based on a data distribution
Publication Date: 2024.05.14 THE TORONTO DOMINION BANK
  • US11985153B2 patent drawing
  • US11985153B2 patent drawing
  • US11985153B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, non-transitory computer readable medium and method for detecting anomalous activity based on a data distribution is disclosed. The system includes a processor, and a memory coupled to the processor. The memory stores computer executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to obtain a plurality of datapoints defining a data distribution. The processor classifies the plurality of datapoints as isolated or non-isolated datapoints, and clusters at least some of the non-isolated datapoints into at least one mode segment. A reference mode from the at least one mode segment is identified, and at least one outlier being either an isolated or non-isolated datapoint separated from the reference mode by a predetermined number of isolated datapoints representing a flat portion is identified. An action is initiated based on the identified at least one outlier.