Clustering of Complex Electronic Systems with Self-Ordering Maps

In this paper an approach to clustering of complex electronic systems using Self-Ordering Maps (SOMs) is presented. SOMs are neural networks which learn through a competitive learning algorithm. In order to use SOMs for the clustering of electronic networks, a representation of the communication behavior in n-dimensional space is developed. The SOM is then used as a nonlinear projection of this space onto a two-dimensional plane.

Two examples of clustering are given. The more complex of the two is verified by comparing the behavior of the clustered system and the unclustered system on a simple model of the CAN bus.

It is shown that SOMs can be used to effectively cluster complex electronic systems.