An Iterative Approach for Fuzzy Clustering Based on Feature Significance

Abstract

Clustering is a technique to group a set of unsupervised data based on the conceptual clustering principle: maximizing the intraclass similarity and minimizing the interclass similarity. Existing clustering approaches concentrate in the different data types and assume that all features play the same role in algorithm validations. However, some features may be more significant than others in forming clusters. In this paper, we consider the feature significance and include it in the clustering algorithms. An iterative approach for fuzzy clustering based on the feature significance is presented and applied in the k-means algorithm for numerical data, the k-modes algorithm for categorical data, and the k-prototypes algorithm for mixed data.