A knowledge-based system controlled by an iterative quadtree splitting scheme for segmentation of seismic sections

A knowledge-based system for the segmentation of seismic sections is presented. The system can be functionally divided into a texture feature extraction part and a knowledge-based segmentation part. An important characteristic of the proposed approach is the iterative quadtree splitting (IQS) scheme used to control the segmentation process. The final output of the system is a segmentation of the input section into regions (segments) of common signal character. Test runs of the system on a real seismic section from the Gulf of Mexico show that the introduction of domain expert geologic knowledge can significantly improve the overall segmentation. The IQS control scheme provides two functions essential to most knowledge-based image processing and interpretation systems: (1) the coordination of all parallel-operated processes over the entire section for an overall balanced result; and (2) the incorporation of various types of knowledge into the different levels of decision-making in those processes