Nonparametric modeling and spatiotemporal dynamical systems
  In this article, it is described how to use statistical data analysis to obtain models directly from data. The focus is put on finding nonlinearities within a generalized additive model. These models are found by the means of backfitting algorithms or more general versions, like the alternating conditional expectation value method. The method is illustrated by numerically generated data. As an application the example of vortex ripple dynamics, a highly complex fluid-granular system is treated. 
M. Abel