We present a system designed to change the manner in which seismic reflection data is imaged, by enabling interactive response to user input. This approach greatlyeases the effort required to produce a seismic image and gives the analyst the flexibility to explore a wide range of models. We also argue that the ability to interact with the image can greatly aid in the interpretation process, and that the structural geologist charged with interpreting the image should be directly involved in the imagingprocess. Our approach differs from current seismicprocessing techniques that limit the ability of the seismic analyst to fully explore the imaging parameters. Current methods also provide the seismic interpreter with little information as to the robustness or reliability of the imaged structure.
The interactive imaging system is implemented on a heterogeneous, medium-grained multicomputer. This machine is configured to provide the substantial performance required by the interactive imaging task. We discuss theimplementation of the system as four separate, butinterrelated tasks: data I/O, computation, image display, and user interface. Each of these functions is supported by hardware specifically suited to the task. The system software is designed to conceal as much of the parallel implementation as possible from a programmer wishing to add processing functions.
The interactive system is applied to a portion of EDGE seismic refection profile RU-3 that crosses the Hosgri fault, offshore central California. From the imagedstructure we infer that the Hosgri is a near-vertical fault, with relatively recent strike-slip displacement. We see no evidence, however, of recent thrust faulting.
