Meta-learning Framework for Stochastic Optimization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional operation research optimization methods are inflexible and computationally expensive, particularly when dealing with stochastic variables, and lack effective sensitivity analysis and explainability, making them inefficient for complex decision-making problems across various verticals.

Innovation Solution

A meta-learning based framework that uses a combination of mathematical solvers, simulation optimization models, and reinforcement learning models to automatically select the appropriate approach and model for solving optimization problems, leveraging machine learning to analyze problem payloads and switch between models seamlessly, thereby simplifying deployment and improving computational efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional mathematical programming methods (LP, NLP, MIP) are used to solve optimization problems, then optimal solutions can be found while satisfying constraints, but the approach becomes computationally expensive and inflexible when dealing with stochastic variables and complex decision-making problems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolution optimalityVSAvoidcomputational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the optimization problem by changing parameters from deterministic to stochastic variables, enabling the system to handle uncertainty and variability in real-world scenarios. This allows the mathematical models to adapt to dynamic conditions while maintaining solution quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a meta-learning framework as an intermediary layer that automatically selects and configures appropriate mathematical programming methods based on problem characteristics. This mediator optimizes the choice between LP, NLP, MIP, and other methods, improving computational efficiency without sacrificing solution optimality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional mathematical models are used with fixed formulations, then solutions can be obtained for specific problems, but the entire process needs to be repeated when problem formulation changes or constraints are relaxed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolution accuracyVSAvoidrepeated computation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary analysis of problem characteristics and formulates mathematical models in advance, creating a reusable framework that can accommodate future problem variations. By pre-establishing the optimization structure and selecting appropriate methods beforehand, the system avoids repeating the entire formulation process when constraints or variables change

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates dynamic mathematical models that can adapt to changing problem formulations and constraints. The system automatically adjusts model parameters, variables, and solution methods in response to problem changes, eliminating the need to restart the entire optimization process while maintaining solution accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of information

If what-if analysis is performed to achieve optimized solutions, then sensitivity analysis capability is improved, but the analysis becomes computationally expensive as the number of variables grows to millions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensitivity analysis capabilityVSAvoidcomputational resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by performing what-if analysis selectively on critical variables and constraints rather than exhaustively analyzing all million-plus variables. The meta-learning framework identifies which parameters most impact the objective function and focuses sensitivity analysis on those key elements, maintaining comprehensive sensitivity understanding while dramatically reducing computational resource consumption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS20240112065A1Meta-learning operation research optimization
Publication Date: 2024.04.04 ORACLE INT CORP
  • US20240112065A1 patent drawing
  • US20240112065A1 patent drawing
  • US20240112065A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for operation research optimization. The systems and methods include receiving, at a data processing system, a payload including a request for optimizing a service and processing the payload using a meta learning classifier. The processing includes extracting a problem and use case characteristics from the payload, predicting at least one machine learning model capable of solving the problem having the use case characteristics, and executing the at least one machine learning model to solve the problem. The systems and methods also include outputting a solution to the problem for optimizing the service from the at least one machine learning model, and providing the solution to a computing device.