A JS library and Svelte component that implements and visualizes a self-organizing map (SOM)
Midsommer is a minimalist implementation of the self-organizing map (SOM) algorithm that serves as a powerful tool for visualizing complex data sets. Developed with ease of use in mind, it provides a straightforward way to interact with and understand the SOM algorithm, which is known for its application in dimensionality reduction of long vectors. Perfect for those looking to explore neural networks, Midsommer offers an intuitive interface to see how the algorithm operates in real time.
The application not only allows users to implement SOMs, but it also facilitates the visualization of data in an engaging way. For example, you can analyze the voting patterns of senators in the 117th Congress, revealing insights through animated visualizations. Its ease of integration in JavaScript environments makes it accessible for developers across various platforms.
User-Friendly Interface: Designed for simplicity, Midsommer allows users to navigate and utilize the SOM algorithm without extensive background knowledge.
Real-Time Visualization: The application provides animated GIF representations of the self-organizing map’s iterations, making the learning process engaging and interactive.
JavaScript Compatibility: Built to work seamlessly in JavaScript environments, Midsommer ensures easy integration into web projects.
Example Applications: Users can run the example application with a single npm command, demonstrating the SOM’s capabilities with real data from the 117th Congress.
Data-Driven Insights: Midsommer leverages Voteview data to create meaningful visualizations of congressional voting patterns, providing valuable context.
Educational Tool: Ideal for those studying neural networks, Midsommer serves as both a practical application and an educational resource to understand SOMs better.
Lightweight Implementation: Midsommer focuses on essential features, making it a fast and efficient tool without unnecessary complexity.
Community Support: By engaging with the community around Midsommer, users can share insights and improvements, fostering a collaborative environment.
