The Intelligent Monitoring System

Abstract The Intelligent Monitoring System (IMS) is a computer system for processing data from seismic arrays and simpler stations to detect, locate, and identify seismic events. The first operational version processes data from two high-frequency arrays (NORESS and ARCESS) in Norway. The IMS computers and functions are distributed between the NORSAR Data Analysis Center (NDAC) near Oslo and the Center for Seismic Studies (Center) in Arlington, Virginia. The IMS modules at NDAC automatically retrieve data from a disk buffer, detect signals, compute signal attributes (amplitude, slowness, azimuth, polarization, etc.), and store them in a commercial relational database management system (DBMS). IMS makes scheduled (e.g., hourly) transfers of the data to a separate DBMS at the Center. Arrival of new data automatically initiates a “knowledge-based system (KBS)” that interprets these data to locate and identify (earthquake, mine blast, etc.) seismic events. This KBS uses general and area-specific seismological knowledge represented in rules and procedures. For each event, unprocessed data segments (e.g., 7 min for regional events) are retrieved from NDAC for subsequent display and analyst review. The interactive analysis modules include integrated waveform and map display/manipulation tools for efficient analyst validation or correction of the solutions produced by the automated system. Another KBS compares the analyst and automatic solutions to mark overruled elements of the knowledge base. Performance analysis statistics guide subsequent changes to the knowledge base so it improves with experience. The IMS is implemented on networked Sun workstations, with a 56 kbps satellite link bridging the NDAC and Center computer networks. The software architecture is modular and distributed, with processes communicating by messages and sharing data via the DBMS. The IMS processing requirements are easily met with major processes (i.e., signal processing, KBS, and DBMS) on separate Sun 4/2xx workstations. This architecture facilitates expansion in functionality and number of stations. The first version was operated continuously for 8 weeks in late-1989. The Center functions were then transferred to NDAC for subsequent operation. Later versions will be distributed among NDAC, Scripps/IGPP (San Diego), and the Center to process data from many stations and arrays. The IMS design is ambitious in its integration of many new computer technologies, but the operational performance of the first version demonstrates its validity. Thus, IMS provides a new generation of automated seismic event monitoring capability.