Novel layered clustering-based approach for generating ensemble of classifiers

IEEE Trans Neural Netw. 2011 May;22(5):781-92. doi: 10.1109/TNN.2011.2118765. Epub 2011 Apr 11.

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel concept for creating an ensemble of classifiers. The concept is based on generating an ensemble of classifiers through clustering of data at multiple layers. The ensemble classifier model generates a set of alternative clustering of a dataset at different layers by randomly initializing the clustering parameters and trains a set of base classifiers on the patterns at different clusters in different layers. A test pattern is classified by first finding the appropriate cluster at each layer and then using the corresponding base classifier. The decisions obtained at different layers are fused into a final verdict using majority voting. As the base classifiers are trained on overlapping patterns at different layers, the proposed approach achieves diversity among the individual classifiers. Identification of difficult-to-classify patterns through clustering as well as achievement of diversity through layering leads to better classification results as evidenced from the experimental results.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Artificial Intelligence*
  • Cluster Analysis*
  • Humans
  • Mathematical Computing
  • Mathematical Concepts
  • Neural Networks, Computer*
  • Pattern Recognition, Automated / standards*
  • Software Validation
  • Statistics as Topic / methods