Dynamic Course Resource Allocation via Machine Learning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing course management systems face challenges in efficiently allocating resources, leading to bottlenecks and suboptimal user experiences due to static resource allocation and lack of predictive analytics, especially in scenarios with varying user loads and dynamic resource needs.

Innovation Solution

A resource allocation system utilizing a trained machine learning model combined with a K nearest neighbors algorithm and AI, which dynamically adjusts resource allocation based on historical data and real-time usage trends, predicting future resource requirements to ensure optimal resource utilization and prevent bottlenecks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static resource allocation is used for course sections, then resource allocation is simple and predictable, but the system cannot adapt to varying user loads and dynamic resource needs, leading to bottlenecks and suboptimal user experiences

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to varying user loadsVSAvoidresource allocation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic resource allocation by using machine learning models to predict future resource requirements based on historical data and usage trends. The system continuously adjusts resource allocation across course sections based on real-time conditions, transitioning from static to dynamic allocation strategies that adapt to varying user loads and prevent bottlenecks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary resource allocation using trained machine learning models that predict future resource needs before actual usage occurs. By analyzing historical course data and enrolling patterns, the system pre-allocates resources to course sections based on predicted demand, allowing the system to prepare ahead of time for varying user loads

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If resources are allocated to accommodate peak demand in all sections, then user experience is maintained during high load, but resources are wasted during low demand periods

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliability under varying loadsVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes allocation parameters dynamically by adjusting resource distribution across course sections based on predicted enrollment patterns and actual usage. Instead of uniform resource allocation, the system modifies parameters such as resource quantity and distribution to match actual demand, preventing both over-provisioning and under-provisioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The machine learning model incorporates feedback loops that continuously monitor actual resource usage against predicted usage patterns. This feedback mechanism allows the system to refine its predictions and adjust resource allocation in real-time, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently while maintaining reliability under varying loads

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If resource allocation is done manually or with simple rules, then the system is easy to manage, but it cannot optimize resource usage across multiple course sections with different characteristics

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation efficiencyVSAvoidallocation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual or rule-based resource allocation mechanisms with an automated machine learning system. The ML model processes historical course data, enrolling patterns, and usage trends to automatically determine optimal resource allocation, substituting complex manual management with intelligent automation that handles multi-section optimization

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

Data Source

PatentUS20250004833A1Efficient resource usage by a course
Publication Date: 2025.01.02 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US20250004833A1 patent drawing
  • US20250004833A1 patent drawing
  • US20250004833A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, computer program product, and computer system for allocating resources to sections of a course. A trained machine learning model (MLM) is executed to initially allocate resources for each section of the course. The trained MLM was previously trained from data of multiple sections of respective historical courses using current instances of a feature vector respectively corresponding to each of the multiple sections. Executing the trained MLM includes using a first instance of a feature vector characterizing the current section as input to the trained MLM. The trained MLM includes a K nearest neighbors (KNN) algorithm and a trained artificial intelligence (AI) model. The resource allocation among the sections is adjusted as deviations from the initially allocated resources to each section. The deviations are based on resource limitations that are specific to each section individually and are not generally encompassed by the sections of the historical courses.