Supporting the Growing Needs of the GIS Industry

About this technology

Overview

Visual Learning Systems developed a commercial software application called Feature AnalystR to address satellite information-flow logjams. The software provides a paradigm shift to automated feature extraction, as it utilizes spectral, spatial, temporal, and ancillary information to model the feature extraction process; presents the ability to remove clutter; incorporates advanced machine learning techniques to supply unparalleled levels of accuracy; and includes an exceedingly simple interface for feature extraction. Feature Analyst leverages the natural ability of humans to recognize objects in complex scenes, and does not require the user to explain the human-visual process in an algorithmic form. The U.S. Forest Service is currently using the program to map fires and distinguish between burned and unburned foliage, while the U.S. Border Patrol is using it to map trails along national borders. Other areas of utilization include environmental mapping for hazardous waste and oil spill monitoring and cleanup, and transportation planning/asset management for airport runways, wetlands, roads, guard rails, and curbs. Feature Analyst was conceived under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract with NASA's Stennis Space Center, and through the Montana State University TechLink Center.