The Illustrated Wavelet Transform Handbook

Book excerpt: The Illustrated Wavelet Transform Handbook: Introductory Theory and Applications in Science, Engineering, Medicine and Finance provides an overview of the theory and practical applications of wavelet transform methods. The author uses several hundred illustrations, some in color, to convey mathematical concepts and the results of applications. The first chapter presents a brief overview of the wavelet transform, including a short history. The remainder of the book is split into two parts: the first part discusses the mathematics of both discrete and continuous wavelet transforms while the second part deals with applications in a variety of subject areas, such as geophysics, medicine, fluid turbulence, engineering testing, speech and sound analysis, image analysis, and data compression. These application chapters make the reader aware of the similarities that exist in the use of wavelet transform analysis across disciplines. A comprehensive list of more than 700 references provides a valuable resource for further study. The book is designed specifically for the applied reader in science, engineering, medicine, finance, or any other of the growing number of application areas. Newcomers to the subject will find an accessible and clear account of the theory of continuous and discrete wavelet transforms, providing a large number of examples of their use across a wide range of disciplines. Readers already acquainted with wavelets can use the book to broaden their perspective.