Improved Approximation Algorithm for Covering Pliable Set Families

Core Concepts

The paper presents an improved approximation algorithm for the Set Family Edge Cover problem with pliable set families, achieving an approximation ratio of 10, which improves upon the previous ratio of 16.

Abstract

The paper focuses on the Set Family Edge Cover problem, where the goal is to find a minimum-cost edge set that covers a given set family F. The author considers a class of set families called "pliable" families, which generalize the previously studied "uncrossable" families. The key insights are: The author shows that the primal-dual algorithm proposed by Williamson et al. (WGMV algorithm) achieves an approximation ratio of 10 for covering pliable set families, improving upon the previous ratio of 16 shown by Bansal et al. The author introduces the concept of "pliable" and "γ-pliable" set families, which have weaker uncrossing properties compared to uncrossable families, but still allow for a constant-factor approximation. The analysis relies on several structural lemmas about pliable families, including the existence of a laminar witness family and properties of "hollow chains" in the witness family. The improved approximation ratio is achieved by a refined analysis of the WGMV algorithm, showing that the contribution of each "hollow chain" to the dual objective is at most 5, rather than the previous bound of 8. The improved approximation ratio for covering pliable set families also leads to improved results for several variants of the Capacitated k-Edge Connected Spanning Subgraph problem.

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Improved approximation ratio for covering pliable set families

by Zeev Nutov at arxiv.org 04-02-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2404.00683.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

What are some real-world applications of pliable set families that could benefit from the improved approximation algorithm presented in this paper

The improved approximation algorithm for covering pliable set families presented in this paper has various real-world applications where efficient solutions are crucial. One such application is in network design problems, specifically in scenarios where the goal is to find a minimum-cost edge set that satisfies certain connectivity requirements. For instance, in the Near Min-Cuts Cover problem, which is a special case of the Capacitated k-Edge Connected Spanning Subgraph problem, the pliable set family structure allows for a more effective approximation algorithm. This can be beneficial in designing robust and cost-effective communication networks, transportation systems, or infrastructure layouts where connectivity and capacity constraints need to be met while minimizing costs. Another application area is in flexible graph connectivity problems, such as the (k, q)-Flexible Graph Connectivity problem, where the goal is to find the cheapest spanning subgraph that maintains a certain level of connectivity even when a specified number of edges are removed. By extending the techniques developed for pliable set families to these applications, the improved approximation guarantees can lead to more efficient and reliable solutions in various network design and optimization scenarios.

Can the techniques developed in this paper be extended to other classes of set families beyond pliable and γ-pliable families, while still maintaining constant-factor approximation guarantees

The techniques developed in this paper for handling pliable and γ-pliable set families can potentially be extended to other classes of set families while maintaining constant-factor approximation guarantees. By analyzing the structural properties of different set families and understanding how these properties impact the performance of approximation algorithms, it may be possible to generalize the approach to a broader class of combinatorial optimization problems. For instance, by exploring the relationships between the laminar witness families, hollow chains, and the behavior of cores in set families, researchers can potentially identify common patterns or structures that are conducive to efficient approximation algorithms. By adapting the analysis techniques and leveraging the insights gained from studying pliable families, it may be feasible to extend the approach to semi-uncrossable families or other classes of set families with similar properties.

How do the structural properties of pliable families, such as the existence of laminar witness families and the behavior of "hollow chains", relate to the underlying combinatorial optimization problems that can be modeled using these families

The structural properties of pliable families, such as the existence of laminar witness families and the behavior of "hollow chains," play a crucial role in understanding the underlying combinatorial optimization problems that can be modeled using these families. The presence of laminar witness families ensures that there is a well-defined structure within the set family, allowing for efficient identification of critical sets and edges that contribute to the overall optimization problem. This structure helps in developing approximation algorithms that can exploit the relationships between different sets and cores to achieve better solutions. Similarly, the concept of "hollow chains" provides insights into the connectivity and coverage properties of the set family. By analyzing the behavior of hollow chains and understanding how edges interact with these chains, researchers can derive valuable information about the interdependencies between sets and the impact of edge selections on the overall coverage of the set family. Overall, the structural properties of pliable families offer a rich framework for studying and solving combinatorial optimization problems, enabling the development of efficient approximation algorithms and providing a deeper understanding of the underlying optimization challenges.