A New Maximum Likelihood Algorithm for Piecewise Regression

Abstract

This paper presents a piecewise regression method for continuous models containing max or min operators, or both. This method does not require knowledge of the zone in which a shift in regimes occurs. Moreover, it allows the application of analytical derivatives to maximize the likelihood function, which greatly simplifies the estimation of the model. The method proposed exhibits fast convergence and can be used for an arbitrary number of regimes and variables.