Neural Networks is an exciting technology with potential uses in many applications. Here's a brief review of the technology as exploited by Neuralog, Inc. along with some links to more info!
A neural network is a set of highly connected nodes, or processing elements, modeled loosely after biological neurons. Information is stored within the nodes and/or their connections to create a distributed "brain". Data is input into the network, and an answer is generated based on that data. Like the human brain, a neural network can generate a correct answer even when the data it is given is imperfect.
When responding to new (never before seen) inputs, neural networks will often provide "good" responses. And sometimes a very fast "good" response is just what is needed - for example, when tracing maps and well logs.
Neural networks are "trained" or "evolved" by giving them example problems and having them produce a solution. Based on the solution produced, the network is modified. This is repeated thousands of times, until the rate of correct solutions produced reaches an acceptable level.
Neuralog Products contain complex line tracing algorithms evolved using neural network technology. Line tracers are trained to follow image lines by providing them with thousands of examples. Because all images are different with a variety of line styles, finding a good line tracer is a very difficult task. Even when a tracer is found that performs excellent on one log or map, it may not do as well on others. Even so, neural networked-based line tracers are still much faster than human tracers, and when guided properly, can greatly increase digitizing productivity.
Neuralog is continuing to research the use of neural networks to evolve tracing algorithms. As increased computing power becomes more available and less expensive, neural network based algorithms will become faster and even more intelligent. This in turn will lead to continued improvements to Neuralog products and ultimately to our customers' productivity.
Any neural network based application will perform some task that a human might have done. It will almost always do the job faster, but may or may not do the job as well. Companies using advanced technologies often forget that it is still people that will use their applications to do real work.
Neuralog develops products that get the job done. Both technology and usability get top priority, so that each Neuralog product is a complete solution, and not just another software tool that almost works. We look at all aspects of working with data to produce products that fit into your work flow. And, we design software that works with you, not against you.
If you have suggestions, questions or comments about any of Neuralog's products, please feel free to send email to info@neuralog.com.