A joint latent factor analyzer and functional subspace model for clustering multivariate functional data

We introduce a model-based approach for clustering multivariate functional data observations. We utilize theoretical results regarding a surrogate density on the truncated Karhunen-Loeve expansions along with a direct sum specification of the functional space to define a matrix normal distribution on functional principal components. This formulation allows for individual parsimonious modelling of the function space and coefficient space of the univariate components of the multivariate functional observations in the form a subspace projection and latent factor analyzers, respectively. The approach facilitates interpretation at both the full multivariate level and the component level, which is of specific interest when the component functions have clear meaning. We derive an AECM algorithm for fitting the model, and discuss appropriate initialization strategies, convergence and model selection criteria. We demonstrate the model's applicability through simulation and two data analyses on observations that have many functional components.