What is computational intelligence?
 
Computational intelligence encompasses all the techniques that allow us to automate data processing and interpretation tasks. Typically the field encompasses neural netowrks, expert systems, genetic algorithms, and data mining. The list grows as more techniques are developed.
 

Why use computational intelligence?
 

In "geo" fields we are often interested in pattern recognition problems. The pattern recognition may be from sensors mounted on a drill bit and we need to recognize stress patterns on the bit in order to know what type of rock we are drilling in. The pattern may be from a geophysical sensor mapping hazardous waste and we need a real time interpretation of what is in the ground. The patterns may be in 3D or 4D seismic data and we want to find horizons, map lithologies, or predict rock properties. The list of applciations is endless. The point, however, is that we have the capability to generate vast amounts of data and we need intelligent ways to sift through these data and highlight areas where human expertise should be focussed.

 
 

What is visualization?
 
When doctors need to "see" what is happening in a human body they can use a variety of imaging techniques like X-Rays, CAT scans, PET scans, and NMR scans to create 2D and 3D pictures of structures inside the body. Doctors can also use instruments that let them see what is in front of a surgical tool when they don't use a large incision. In the "geo" fields, we can't move the patient around to create the images, we have to move the sensors. Visualization involves not just creating images but transforming data into domains where the information content can be more easily extracted.
 

Why use visualization?
 
We often don't understand the best way to solve a problem or analyze data unless we can visualize the problem. The physical properties of the earth don't allow us to make images as clear as an X-Ray. Instead, we have to rely on ways of imaging the earth, be it a surface scan from a satellite, a 3D seismic survey, or something even more abstract like vibrations from a drill bit, that are rather abstract and then convert the data to something the human eye can understand.