An algorithm for discretization of real value attributes based on interval similarity

Abstract

Discretization algorithm for real value attributes is of very important uses in many areas such as intelligence and machine learning. The algorithms related to Chi2 algorithm (includes modified Chi2 algorithm and extended Chi2 algorithm) are famous discretization algorithm exploiting the technique of probability and statistics. In this paper the algorithms are analyzed, and their drawback is pointed. Based on the analysis a new modified algorithm based on interval similarity is proposed. The new algorithm defines an interval similarity function which is regarded as a new merging standard in the process of discretization. At the same time, two important parameters (condition parameter α and tiny move parameter c) in the process of discretization and discrepancy extent of a number of adjacent two intervals are given in the form of function. The related theory analysis and the experiment results show that the presented algorithm is effective. © 2013 Li Zou et al.