Forecasting-Based Anomaly Detection for Periodic Data Streams

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Solution Overview

Problem

Detecting anomalies in data streams from multiple heterogeneous sources is challenging due to the likelihood of errors, as significant deviations can be caused by either system failures or external events, making it difficult to determine whether anomalies warrant investigation without extensive analysis.

Innovation Solution

A monitoring service uses forecasting models to differentiate anomalous data values from non-anomalous ones by selecting models with matching periodicities, generating scores based on historical data, and determining if the new data value exceeds a score threshold, thereby identifying potential anomalies and triggering alerts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If detailed investigation is performed to determine whether deviations are due to system failures or external events, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanomaly detection accuracyVSAvoidinvestigation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary anomaly detection using forecasting models before detailed investigation is required. By pre-calculating anomaly scores based on historical data and pattern matching, the system prepares predictions that guide subsequent investigation efforts, reducing the time needed for detailed analysis while maintaining detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual detailed investigation with automated forecasting-based anomaly detection. The system uses computational models to automatically identify and score potential anomalies, substituting the mechanical process of human investigation with an automated information processing system that provides rapid preliminary assessment.

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

2Measurement precision

If multiple forecasting models are used to differentiate anomalies from external events, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanomaly differentiation accuracyVSAvoidmodel selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the anomaly detection process into distinct phases: data collection, model selection based on periodicity matching, score generation for each model, and final anomaly determination. By dividing the complex task into manageable segments with clear decision rules, the system handles multiple forecasting models without overwhelming complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of model selection from arbitrary or manual choice to systematic selection based on periodicity matching. By using periodicity as the key parameter for model selection, the system automatically determines which forecasting models are appropriate for each data stream, reducing complexity while improving differentiation accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If anomaly detection is performed on data streams from multiple heterogeneous sources, then adaptability is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-source data handlingVSAvoidanomaly detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a universal forecasting-based anomaly detection framework that can handle multiple heterogeneous data sources through a common methodology. The same periodicity-matching model selection and score generation process is applied across different data streams, regardless of their source or nature, providing adaptability while maintaining consistent detection procedures that reduce overall difficulty.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11841786B2Predictive anomaly detection framework
Publication Date: 2023.12.12 VISA INTERNATIONAL SERVICE ASSOCIATION
  • US11841786B2 patent drawing
  • US11841786B2 patent drawing
  • US11841786B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the invention are directed to techniques for detecting anomalous values in data streams using forecasting models. In some embodiments, a computer can receive a value of a data stream comprising a plurality of data values, where the received value corresponds to a time interval and previously received values each correspond to a previous time interval. Models can be selected based on the time interval, where each of the models has a different periodicity. For each of the selected models, the computer may generate a score by generating a prediction value based on the model and generating the score based on the prediction value and the received value. A final score can then be generated based on the scores. Next, a score threshold can be generated. If the final score exceeds the score threshold, the computer may generate a notification that indicates that the data value is an anomaly.