A Sequential Algorithm for Training the SOM Prototypes Based on Higher-Order Recursive Equations

A novel training algorithm is proposed for the formation of Self-Organizing Maps (SOM). In the proposed model, the weights are updated incrementally by using a higher-order difference equation, which implements a low-pass digital filter. It is possible to improve selected features of the self-organization process with respect to the basic SOM by suitably designing the filter. Moreover, from this model, new visualization tools can be derived for cluster visualization and for monitoring the quality of the map.