Clustering Meta-Learning Model for Automated Pipeline Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current clustering methods struggle to effectively group data into similar groups relative to other data points within a dataset, as they often rely on unsupervised approaches that lack specificity and fail to match the right clustering algorithm with the specific data set, leading to inefficient clustering results.

Innovation Solution

A machine learning clustering meta-learning model is developed that converts unsupervised clustering problems into supervised learning by creating a repository of labeled datasets, using internal and external scores to generate a supervised model that predicts the best clustering pipelines for unseen datasets, employing techniques like imputation, scaling, and feature engineering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If unsupervised clustering approaches are used, then clustering can be performed without labeled data, but the ability to match specific clustering algorithms with specific datasets is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to match clustering algorithm with datasetVSAvoidlack of labeled data utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by creating a repository of labeled clustering datasets in advance, training supervised learning models to learn the mapping between dataset characteristics and optimal clustering algorithms. This preliminary training enables the system to quickly match algorithms to new datasets without losing the benefit of labeled data insights.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary supervised learning model that mediates between the dataset characteristics and clustering algorithm selection. This intermediary model learns from labeled data to predict which clustering algorithm will work best for a given dataset, bridging the gap between unsupervised clustering needs and supervised learning capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If multiple clustering algorithms are evaluated to find the best match, then clustering accuracy improves, but computational time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclustering accuracyVSAvoidalgorithm selection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary evaluation of multiple clustering algorithms during the training phase on labeled datasets. By pre-learning the performance characteristics of different algorithms across various data types, the system can quickly recommend the best algorithm for new datasets without performing exhaustive evaluations at runtime.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a copy of the knowledge gained from evaluating multiple algorithms on training data by storing this information in a supervised learning model. Instead of re-evaluating algorithms on each new dataset, the system copies the learned patterns and recommendations, significantly reducing the time required for algorithm selection while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If supervised learning is used to select clustering algorithms, then algorithm matching precision improves, but the requirement for labeled data increases complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealgorithm matching precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal supervised learning model that serves multiple functions: it learns from labeled clustering datasets, predicts optimal clustering algorithms for new datasets, and provides recommendations without requiring complex manual configuration. This multi-functional approach simplifies the overall system by consolidating algorithm selection expertise into a single model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The supervised learning model enables the system to self-service by automatically selecting appropriate clustering algorithms based on dataset characteristics. The model learns from existing labeled data and autonomously makes algorithm recommendations, reducing the need for manual expert intervention and simplifying the user interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250348774A1Automated meta-learning in clustering using a machine learning clustering meta learning model
Publication Date: 2025.11.13 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US20250348774A1 patent drawing
  • US20250348774A1 patent drawing
  • US20250348774A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of creating a machine learning clustering meta learning model for use in solving a machine learning clustering problem includes obtaining a plurality of information related to the machine learning clustering problem, wherein the plurality of information includes classification datasets, machine learning transformers and clustering estimators, creating a set of clustering datasets using the classification datasets, generating trained clustering pipelines by training the set of unsupervised clustering pipelines responsive to the clustering datasets, processing the trained clustering pipelines to generate internal scores and external scores for the set of clustering datasets, creating an encoded clustering pipeline by encoding the trained clustering pipeline using the external score as a label and generating a trained supervised machine learning model by combining the internal scores and the encoded clustering pipelines.