Computerized vision for the geologist

The digital computer can be a tireless friend and assistant to the geologist. The computer has no innate intelligence, but given adequate programs to analyze and interrelate the information on maps, photos, surveys, and other material, the computer can serve as an analytical tool and consultant. To the geologist's qualitative knowledge, theories, and models can be added the possibility of the computer's mathematically precise numerical answers, confirming or refuting the original ideas. In the interactive mode in particular, a dialogue between the geologist and the computer is established, where the geologist and the computer can complement each other's abilities. The basic principles of processing two-dimensional geological data, such as maps, charts, photos, and survey results, are discussed. Some comparisons are also made between the rule-based methods of Prospector, developed at Stanford Research Institute, and the more intuitively guided image-based procedures of GIAPP, developed on the equipment at the National Research Council of Canada, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of Canada and the University of Ottawa.