Xiaoming Li

Zebin Yang, Agus Sudjianto, Xiaoming Li et al.

Tree ensemble models like random forests and gradient boosting machines are widely used in machine learning due to their excellent predictive performance. However, a high-performance ensemble consisting of a large number of decision trees lacks sufficient transparency and explainability. In this paper, we demonstrate that when shallow decision trees are used as base learners, the ensemble learning algorithms can not only become inherently interpretable subject to an equivalent representation as the generalized additive models but also sometimes lead to better generalization performance. First, an interpretation algorithm is developed that converts the tree ensemble into the functional ANOVA representation with inherent interpretability. Second, two strategies are proposed to further enhance the model interpretability, i.e., by adding constraints in the model training stage and post-hoc effect pruning. Experiments on simulations and real-world datasets show that our proposed methods offer a better trade-off between model interpretation and predictive performance, compared with its counterpart benchmarks.

Zhihan Lv, Xiaoming Li

This is the preprint version of our paper on ICWL2015. A virtual reality based enhanced technology for learning primary geography is proposed, which synthesizes several latest information technologies including virtual reality(VR), 3D geographical information system(GIS), 3D visualization and multimodal human-computer-interaction (HCI). The main functions of the proposed system are introduced, i.e. Buffer analysis, Overlay analysis, Space convex hull calculation, Space convex decomposition, 3D topology analysis and 3D space intersection detection. The multimodal technologies are employed in the system to enhance the immersive perception of the users.

Zhihan Lv, Xiaoming Li, Baoyun Zhang et al.

This is the preprint version of our paper on EUROGRAPHICS 2015. A big city visual analysis platform based on Web Virtual Reality Geographical Information System (WEBVRGIS) is presented. Extensive model editing functions and spatial analysis functions are available, including terrain analysis, spatial analysis, sunlight analysis, traffic analysis, population analysis and community analysis.