WO1995027979A1

WO1995027979A1 - Data storage, processing, and recovery method and system utilizing polychromatic lightwaves

Info

Publication number: WO1995027979A1
Application number: PCT/US1995/004238
Authority: WO
Inventors: Elliott D. Blatt
Original assignee: Blatt Elliott D
Priority date: 1994-04-06
Filing date: 1995-04-06
Publication date: 1995-10-19
Also published as: AU2279495A

Abstract

Data processing method and system including interpretation of polychromatic lightwaves (A1), (A2), (A3), (A4) or equivalents, radiowaves, other electromagnetic spectrum, or known stable particle arrangements as distinct data, rules, or functions. The present invention is described as 'polystate' as opposed to binary or 'dual-state' methods and systems for data computation, storage, recovery, processing, and communication.

Description

Specification DATA STORAGE, PROCESSING, AND RECOVERY METHOD AND SYSTEM UTILIZING POLYCHROMATIC LIGHTWAVES BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to an improved information mass storage means for use in electronic devices and more specifically to a method and system for optically storing, transferring, processing, retrieving, recovering or reading out information. The present invention provides an effective storage, processing, and communications means for information. In order to meet the demanding standards of the audiophile, the computer user, the videophile, and the converging telecommunications / broadcasting / cable / networking / multimedia industries, engineers are turning to binary data compression schemes (CODECS) to reduce high bandwidth data traffic into smaller bits and bytes (1's and 0's). However, providers and users of interactive technologies such as "on-demand" television and "on-demand" information require a better solution for mass interactive broadcasting and mass interactive data distribution.

CD-ROM discs are duplicated in a "clean-room" environment which costs the average consumer one U.S. dollar per disc in high quantity. An audio music program on a compact disc must also be manufactured using a "clean-room" environment. Videodiscs or laserdiscs also require a similar process for mass manufacture. Each of these mass storage means comprises a system of laser formed optical pits which are capable of recovery as digital on/off bits known as binary data. To improve data throughput requires substantial increases in surface rotation or spin velocity of the CD-ROM media.

To overcome the inherent data capacity and manufacturing limitations placed on prior art mass storage and recovery systems, the present invention describes a system wherein a first data signal, such as a binary signal or analog signal, is encoded as a first polychromatic lightwave (or suitable representation thereof) for transmittal via optical means, or stored for subsequent recovery on a suitable color storage site.

For use as mass data storage means capable of storing data to silver halide film or other suitable film, material, or color storage substrate, the present invention teaches a new, inexpensive, lightweight, microthin, portable mass storage medium and delivery method and system for information or data.

For use as a mass data communications means, utilizing state-of-the art lasers and fiber optics, the present invention delivers a new polystate high speed data communications capability. The present invention, capitalizing on unique properties of light spectra can store and recover trillions of alternate data values or functions per lightwave point. The present invention teaches a method whereby machines may sustain many trillions of operations per second while operating utilizing polychromatic light as data. This unique data communications method provides light speed data transfers, while significantly increasing the data density of each lightwave or pulse. For the benefit of the reader, a "visual spectrum language" system is contained herein which teaches alphanumeric and other data equivalents for polychromatic lightwave spectra.

For use as a high speed microprocessor, utilizing state-of-the-art laser techniques, fiber optic technologies, and photonic / particle physics devices, the present invention establishes a method and system for high speed computing machines which operate on a polystate rather than dual-state principle. The disclosure teaches an entirely new approach to data processing in an electronic device. Brief Description of the Prior Art

There is no prior art that teaches or suggests a multiple-state use of polychromatic light in lieu of a binary system for the mass data storage and information recovery process.

The existence of prior art compression schemes that embed data within the stream of binary l's and 0's forming a digital image is neither suggestive of, nor anticipatory of the present invention's polystate approach. Prior art binary approaches of any kind are simply not capable of storing and recovering trillions of values or meanings within a single bit or pulse of light, electromagnetism, or other charge. There is no suggestion in any prior art of any speed or efficiency gain or benefits for mass storage, communications, or microprocessing as are derived from the present invention's use of polychromatic lightwaves.

Prior art neural networks operate on a principle of summing various voltage inputs, each having a threshold voltage. The present invention uses lightwaves capable of travelling over fiber optic cables or line of sight means without noise associated with such electronic voltages. Due to the extreme high density at which points of polychromatic light may be stored on a storage site, the present invention represents a many fold improvement over prior art analog electronic storage or processing devices.

The present invention allows a plurality of film frames or visible film areas, to be used by an optical device capable of reading said plurality of film frames or visible film areas, for creating write once-read many ROM (read only memory). Because an optical storage medium such as silver halide film can store a broad range of color information, such light spectrum based ROM can be considered to be polystate ROM or "POLYROM" or "COLOR-ROM". Although capable of simply storing prior art "digital" information, which is two state (on/off), as black color, or undeveloped film grains (or other color scheme) or as pixels, the present invention allows visual color spectrum information representation which is termed "visual spectrum polystate digital bit" information storage. By using electronic means to convey, store, and detect color, such as a TFT color active matrix screen to convey color, a memory device to store color information such as an Intel ActionMedia II board using DVI technology, and same capability to detect color information, the present invention facilitates computer processing at vastly improved speed and efficiency levels heretofore unattainable. By reducing all data, functions, or commands to bits of color, the present invention reduces the amount of information required to convey any given value or meaning.

It is a known fact that silver halide film provides a resolution (grain pixels per color spectrum equivalent) superior to any heretofore known digital optical recording technique. Given the ability of silver halide film to rapidly record optical information, usually from an incoming light source via a lens/shutter combination, and more recently from transcribed digital color information that has been previously digitized by a Kodak Cineon Digital Film Scanner, the present invention seeks to optimally utilize the high resolution color spectrum characteristics of silver halide film as a digital storage and visual data language means. Heretofore methods and apparatus, including the Kodak system mentioned herein, do not attempt to use optical silver halide film as the actual digital storage means. No prior art exists concerning the use of the visual color spectrum as a digital language. Traditionally, silver halide film is used to faithfully reproduce arrangements of light spectrum information, such as those captured by a traditional film camera. Existing prior art in the area of color digitization seeks also to faithfully reproduce source light spectrum arrangements, such as a color scanner or digital camera. Other use of film seeks to faithfully reproduce a document image (e.g. , microfilm/microform) on film by using optics and significant levels of magnification. The reader will appreciate that no prior art exists that seeks to use color information to represent data or functions that may have absolutely no relationship to the faithful reproduction of color. DEFINITIONS

Color Dot╌ A visible point of light consisting of varying intensities of color which is physically or electronically affixed or otherwise suitably recorded, displayed or otherwise caused to be made detectable. The inventor teaches a method of storing data as color to a particular recording surface, or visible or light spectrum detectable area (e.g., "outer space") for possible transfer via laser and/or fiber optics and/or cathode rays and/or active matrix (TFT) display technology and any other such capability now known, or available to the reader at the time of this reading. The inventor does not preclude the possibility of using mirrors in conjunction with existing light spectra, such as light emissions from the sun to provide both solar power and necessary polychromatic bandwidth light emissions. The inventor does not preclude the possibility of using chemical or gas arrangements, such as crystal lattice formations, dyes, and the like, appropriately created and/or affixed in some manner to a physical medium. The inventor does not preclude the possibility of using heat, pressure, or any other capability now known, or available to the reader at the time of this reading, for the purpose of creating and/or arranging and/or storing and/or propagating visible points of polychromatic light.

Polystate ╌ A term coined by the inventor, defines the multiple state capability, which is polychromatic or polyfrequency in the present invention, of any device or process using the present invention, or otherwise suitable means, capable of conveying alternate meanings for information existing in a fixed location. Prior art defines a digital signal as being one in which information is carried in a limited number of different discrete states. The most widely used form of digital signals is binary, that is, having two states (on or off). Prior art attempts to use optical systems in serial, "simply parallel", or "globally parallel" encoding schemes encode signals for true (1) and false (0). Such prior art represents an electronic design implemented with optical flip flops, which are dual state only. Each constituent "bit" of light is presently capable of establishing only an on/off or true/false state or condition. Although a parallel arrangement can result in massive binary logic processing, the present invention is capable of establishing trillions more possible values or meanings for each given constituent bit than prior art. Polystate information processing enables multiple conditions which are capable of being transmitted or received in a single bit, or pulse. The present invention is capable of mapping trillions of states within a single bit, or pulse of polychromatic light.

Polystate digital signal╌ A polystate digital signal is an electrical signal (including lightwaves or electromagnetic radiation) capable of delivering multiple states within each single bit, or pulse contained in a stream, or grouping of polystate bits, or pulses. The present invention establishes methods and apparatus by which polystate digital signal processing can occur. The polystate digital signal equivalent of white, according to the inventor, represents a maximal condition whereby all channels in a polystate digital system are full. The inventor defines the result from an attempt to create a polystate digital signal equivalent of white within a confined polystate digital system as a measure of the speed at which said polystate digital system operates. This value or result may be expressed in terms of the number of existing lightwave points, lightwave equivalents, or simultaneous lightwave positions which are capable of being processed per second by a confined (fixed) given polystate digital system. The unit of measure that expresses the speed of a polystate digital processing capability, for a given confined (fixed) polystate digital system, is called a "blatt. " A polystate digital processor, capable of processing 6 million lightwave points, positions, or equivalents per second would have a rating of 6 Megablatts.

Polystate digital processor means╌ A component of a polystate digital microprocessor of extraordinary speed and computational power is made possible by using an implementation of the present invention. A preferred embodiment is described herein whereby photonic devices such as a multi-anode PMT manufactured by HAMMAMATSU LTD, Japan, provides the color detection and conversion means to process color as discrete data, rules, or functions. A new and unique use for such lightwave detection equipment is taught herein providing a polystate digital information processing means.

Polystate digital bit╌ A term coined by the inventor, is a physical particle or beam, in an original or filtered state, comprising fixed physical size, capable of independently conveying more than two states, possibly at the speed of light, while remaining in the same physical position or space. Any color, or combination of colors, may comprise a polystate digital bit. Because the colors black and white may have varying shades, or intensities, they may be used to fill a physical position or space while representing multiple (more than two) states. A polystate digital bit may be affixed physically to a film, surface, or area, or may be transferred from one location to another via suitable transmission means. Without altering its intensity in a given physical position or space, a solid black color cannot independently convey multiple states, and is therefore not considered a polystate digital bit. Solid black, or absence of solid black can only convey two states. Prior art examples of binary or dual-state digital bit use can be found in bar coding techniques or monochromatic LED digital bit fiber optic transmissions.

Color Bit Temperature╌ Detection of a light source with readily available professional photographic or computerized light metering technology, or technologies used by physicists to examine characteristics of photons, yields a color temperature reading in Degrees Kelvin, or can reveal other color index information. One of average skill in the art of photography and/or physics and/or video will understand that many variables may be controlled and detected using existing photoelectronic devices including filtration techniques (e.g., subtractive mixing of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow). In this way, the reader will appreciate the value and relationship of complimentary, additive, and subtractive color combinations for use in polychromatic polystate digital languages and processing schemes. It is not the purpose of this writing to teach light filter or video processing fundamentals or apparatus to the reader, however, one who is ordinarily skilled in the art (or more likely, a group of individuals skilled in specialized areas) termed "integrated polystate computing," including, but not limited to, imaging (including nuclear medical imaging), physics, video, voice, dsp, MIDI, communications, lasers, light/optics, photography, programming, hardware/software, production, film, printing, compression, analog and parallel processing will be capable of integrating light/ video techniques into an implementation of the present invention.

Polystate digital language╌ A term coined by the inventor, is any predetermined, or process or method for determining, arrangement in physical or "free space", of polystate digital information. To be considered a polystate digital language, each color dot must be able to store a plurality of values or meanings based on any properties of frequency, intensity, and/or physical location. A test or characteristic of a polystate digital language is that given a constant use of solid black color, as recorded or transferred onto multiple locations, said polystate digital language should be able to utilize said solid black color as a "polystate digital bit" as defined herein. Although a solid black color is not considered a "polystate digital bit", by specifying and detecting an arrangement, a polystate digital language can map alternate values or meanings to each of said discretely arranged solid black points of light (said black points of light created by absence of light and/or absorption of reflected light from a black color dot). A polystate digital language interprets data from the various properties of a lightwave, such as intensity and frequency. A polystate digital language needs to be capable of interpreting said properties of a lightwave into pre-assigned values or meanings. Unlike prior art dual state languages, a polystate digital language can take multiple actions based on a single (polystate) digital bit input. A polystate digital language may be capable of mapping location (in physical or free space) of said lightwave in relationship to a grid or other input signals. Although a polystate digital language may be devised to organize or interpret lightwaves limited to a fixed physical size, position, and space, such an implementation of a polystate digital language would be less flexible. It is a unique, and novel characteristic of the present invention, that given any amount of signal representations using prior art methods, processes, or apparatus, required to transmit a pixel condition or representation (bits/pixels) to a television/monitor receiver, the present invention is capable of reducing that amount of signal representations required (bits/pixels) by at least one, via a suitable visual spectrum language which is capable of representing polychromatic and/or polyfrequency color and/or sound information in a single bit or pulse. For any given amount of signal representations required by prior art, the present invention can reduce this number by at least one, but not to zero.

Virtual polystate digital bit - A virtual polystate digital bit is a polystate bit capable of conveying trillions of possible values or meanings, but whose origin stems from an existing signal or source. A standard television signal, for example, carries thousands of color pixel signals per frame per second. Without altering or modifying such existing signals whatsoever, the present invention is capable of both assigning values or meanings to each pixel therein, and of additionally interpreting such signals upon detection by a device embodying the present invention. For the sake of clarity in teaching the reader this concept, let us take an example where the color blue exists in a particular television program pixel signal. If we map the color blue to signify "HELLO", then any detection of such a color pixel is interpreted as the textual word "HELLO." By creating a suitable mapping means termed a polystate visual spectrum language, we can construct rules for the specific mapping of information to specified pixel colors and/or their spatial arrangement or position. We can create a map describing how such color pixel information will be interpreted by a device embodying the present invention. A color-to-data mapping means or "pixel road map" or "pixel output order" allows the reader to assign trillions upon trillions of possible values or meanings to a color signal or pixel or related group of color signals or pixels based on color, position, or both. A map allowing identification of existing color signals as data contains the color-to-data values or meanings, and specifies the arrangement or pixel location(s) for use by a receiver/detector embodying the present invention. A receiver/detector embodiment of the present invention would be unable to decipher such existing color information as data without the specific visual spectrum language mapping means used during the encoding process. In this manner, trillions upon trillions of values or meanings can be added to a standard television signal, with zero net impact on or alteration of said standard television signal. Although our discussion of virtual polystate digital bits has been limited to those color signals that already exist without any modification, it is important to note that, alternatively, "video overlay or key" techniques can be employed whereby a video pixel condition (animation or grouping of color pixels) can be superimposed over existing video content without impacting the bandwidth of any given video signal. The inventor teaches an embodiment of the present invention that provides interactive data broadcasting without employing a direct cable connection to a receiver unit "set-top-box". This is a radical departure from prior art interactive "broadcasting" techniques.

Polytonal frequency bit - (Also known as Tonal Bit) A combination of, or singular, frequencies that are capable of being transferred from one point to another, as physically affixed, generated, or otherwise caused to be made detectable, for possible transmission or transfer by telecommunications transmitter means, through "free space" (e.g., outer space, under water), or fixed medium (e.g., fiber optic lines, copper wires, magnetic tapes, compact discs) or device (e.g., audio or video cassette player/recorder, electronic musical instrument device such as a digital sampler such as an Akai S1000) or other capability now known or available to the reader at the time of this reading. As an equivalent, the inventor does not preclude the possibility of using stable particles in a detectable state. The reader will appreciate that every particle that is detectable by man consists of an identifiable set of components, and all emit or respond in a particular manner to frequencies, either originating from said particle, or as bouncing back off said particle from a given form of send/receive particle detector. It is an important point that polytonal frequency bits exist everywhere, at every constituent level of matter without alteration of any kind required by the present invention. For example, a specific, or known arrangement of particles of silver, magnesium, copper, and zinc are recordable and/or detectable and/or affixable for later analysis. The exact nature and composition of a given polytonal frequency bit is entirely determinable by the reader. Although a majority of the following discussion relates to a preferred embodiment comprising use of polychromatic light as data, the reader should be aware of possible alternative polystate digital bits. Many polytonal frequency bits are considered to be lightwave equivalents, since said polytonal frequency bits are not usually visible, however, methods of transmission may occur at the speed of light. An example of a vast spectrum of electromagnetic frequencies includes gamma rays, X-rays, and ultraviolet or infrared rays. Although many particles are ill suited to transmission from one point to another, a polystate digital language can map any particle of matter that is consistently detectable at the time of this reading to equal any specified value or meaning, including any signal equivalents thereof. Said value or meaning may be translated or converted into any form of polystate digital bit, such as a color bit, for transmission via any suitable transmission means for a polystate digital signal.

"COLOR-ROM"╌ A term coined by the inventor, is a writable and readable memory which is capable of storing light spectrum signals, such as a color dot. COLOR-ROM may consist of paper, film, ceramic, metals, plastic, or any other physical means onto which color spectrum information can be stored or otherwise suitably affixed. To create COLOR-ROM paper requires an accurate and consistent color printing device used in accordance with the methods and processes of the present invention. Creation of COLOR-ROM in a microthin film format requires a suitable digital to film conversion device, such as a Kodak Cineon Film Recorder used in accordance with the methods and processes of the present invention. Creation of COLOR-ROM as a ceramic surface requires a color output device capable of thermally printing or etching appropriate colors onto ceramic used in accordance with the methods and processes of the present invention. Creation of COLOR-ROM metals requires use of a color printing device and/or use of particular acids to generate particular color spectrum representations used in accordance with the methods and processes of the present invention. Some metals have the advantage of depth. COLOR-ROM metal "etchings," for example, allow a 3 dimensional placement of color dot information. Although such techniques can significantly increase information density for a given metal or ceramic, such use of the present invention is taught to the reader for possible use in large industrial applications or space-based devices, where heat sources may be a factor ruling out use of flexible, microthin media. Other suitable media exists that is capable of storing light spectrum representations, such as a color dot. The reader may use the present invention as read-only memory (or perhaps as write-many/read-many data storage, whereby a color output device can "erase" or "write over" existing color information, such as by spray painting a dot over a previous one created by a "paint jet" printer), involving a variety of physical media known at the time of this reading (e.g. , paper, color silver halide film, variable light sources and/or light filters). The reliability and accuracy of a given combination of color input/output means may be controlled by using a standard closed loop calibration technique which establishes deviations between input and output colors.

"COLOR-RAM" ╌ A term coined by the inventor, is a temporary, electronic color spectrum based, read/writable field or grid of polychromatic polystate digital color bits. An electronic example of COLOR-RAM is use of active matrix (TFT) color screen technology or other video screen/monitor means in conjunction with CCD chips, or other suitable optical detector means (e.g. , a video digitization/playback board such as an Intel/IBM DVI ActionMedia II, which can optionally include standard RAM.). Information can be "written" to such a COLOR-RAM device by using standard color pixel transmission means in conjunction with a polystate digital language and suitable device processor means. Information can be "read-out" or recovered from such a COLOR-RAM capability by responding to the polychromatic light pixel combinations (e.g., red/green/blue) emitted from said screen/monitor means. A system for transmitting and receiving polystate color information via standard television signals is achieved by first assigning values or meanings to transmissible color information (e.g., mapping values or meanings to existing color pixels of a standard television broadcast signal using a visual spectrum language), second apparatus and suitable visual spectrum language and method for interpreting such signals (e.g., a television tuner/decoder box embodiment of the present invention), and an output means for establishing trillions of possible changes or results based on polystate television encoded signals detected. POLYSTATE COLOR BEAM╌ A phrase coined by the inventor, describes use of the present invention whereby a device emits beams of light (such as a laser beam) and said device is capable of generating color spectrum lightwaves (polychromatic). A polystate color beam is generated by an output device capable of emitting a visible stream of polychromatic color spectrum light. Lasers are constructed in such a manner that three separate beams (e.g. , red/green/blue) could be made to intersect, thereby causing the appearance of a polychromatic polystate color beam. A device capable of detecting the output of said polystate color beam, and thereby being additionally capable of interpreting such light beams by using a polystate digital language comprises an embodiment of the present invention.

Because satellites are often requested to perform multiple operations at a critical moment, the ability to convey the maximum number of instructions (values or meanings) in the least amount of time is essential. Once again, for the benefit of the reader's complete understanding, the present invention can convey trillions of possible values or meanings in a single polystate digital signal possibly occurring at the speed of light. Many multiple trillions are possible in a second polystate digital signal possibly occurring at the speed of light, and so on. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is an established need to create mass storage means for digital computing applications that are lighter, more durable, less expensive to produce in high quantities, more flexible, thinner, and capable of holding increasing amounts of digital information. There is also a great need to access or transfer high resolution graphics, motion video, sound, and digital documents in an integrated format at the speed of light. Prior art methods and apparatus often seek to increase digital data density by increasing the speed at which an optical platter spins. Such devices record digital information in dual-state form by using optical "pits" to represent a one or zero binary condition.

Cumbersome and expensive electronically sustained RAM (random access memory) or ROM (read only memory) is not practical for mass, transportable storage. No practical fixed or portable medium currently exists for mass storage of data without requiring that medium to be placed in motion or mass manufactured with expensive machinery. In the case of ROM chips, which require an electrical connection to be capable of reading out information, such chips are too costly for mass data storage use, as attainable by the present invention. The present invention achieves mass storage of information in fractions of physical space required by prior art ROM. In the case of electronic RAM, a direct electrical connection is required to read/write information, and a loss of power results in permanent loss of information. Such technologies are binary in design, and are not capable of storing trillions of possible values or meanings in a single bit or pulse.

To function, floppy or hard disk drives and the corresponding floppy disk or platter require motion within the drive and/or by the optical or magnetic storage medium itself. This principle is true of digital optical storage means such as a CD-ROM or WORM capability. Digital compact cassettes, compact discs, flopticals, floppies, hard drives, tape drives, and the like, all require a spinning or motion to occur by the medium (e.g., the floppy magnetic medium, moving digital tape, etc.) and/or the drive mechanism (e.g., the hard drive platter/motor, CD-ROM drive motor, tape advance motor, etc.) Heretofore digital data storage represents information as a series of on/off pulses or data bits representing ones and zeros. It is an object of the present invention, therefore, to provide a mass storage means capable of storing hundreds or even thousands of Megabytes (MB) of "digital" information without requiring a spinning or other movement of the medium itself (e.g. , film) during the data transfer process. No spinning is required by the present invention for recovering data from a mass data storage medium. Said digital information capable of being stored by the present invention need not be limited to representations of on/off states, or digital ones and zeros. It is an object of the present invention, therefore, to be able to represent information in multiple states. A new kind of computer processor capable of both generating and reading such color information, using lasers and lenses, for example, will maintain throughput, input/output, and processing of such "digital optical" information at speeds and efficiency levels beyond prior art digital (on/off state) processors. In fact, polystate digital bit information transfers can occur at the speed of light utilizing polychromatic light beams. In an optical (polystate digital bit) processor, as enabled by the present invention, a single pixel of color spectrum information (e.g., navy blue light) could be caused to represent any computational task, subroutine, software application, pathway, scanline, frame, audio frequency combination, light frequency combination and so on. Since such a novel and unique processor is not limited to simple on/off state information, dramatic new mathematical possibilities arise while processing information (possibly in parallel using parallel processing) at light speeds. Any video frame or audio segment, or combination of frames, can be mapped, transmitted, and interpreted by using a polychromatic or polystate digital bit transmissible at the speed of light. It is conceivable that the present invention can deliver motion picture quality, cinematic films to homes via communication means in accordance with the present invention to a projection/display device embodiment capable of interpreting and displaying information transmitted in such a manner. The present invention improve transmission speed by reducing the number of bits required, and can simultaneously improve quality (e.g., color resolution, contrast, number of audio tracks), by increasing the data density per bit delivered and detected in accordance with the present invention. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention utilizes properties of polychromatic light to achieve a higher density data storage and/or information processing capability over prior art monochromatic techniques. For use in polychromatic lightwave information transactions, such lightwave information must be:

(1) affixable or stored in an electronic or non-electronic manner (such as within an Intel i750 chip and related memory capability in the former case, and on film or color print paper in the case of the latter); (2) detectable via suitable analog or digital lightwave detection means (e.g., a film scanner, slide scanner, or Intel i750 chip and related memory capability); (3) processable by suitable electronic means to determine specific data or functions. This can be accomplished in microcode via an Intel Action Media II board using the Audio Video Kernel to process several MIPS (millions of instructions per second) of color information. An example of this might be to instruct the computer's main CPU to access a disk drive upon detection of the solid color navy blue. The reader will appreciate that this represents an entirely new and faster method by which to conduct operating system functions within a microcomputer, since complex tasks can be reduced to a single color instruction.

Intel and i750 and ActionMedia are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel corporation.

The reader may devise his own software driven instructions for first assessing the properties of a polychromatic lightwave, second enacting processing corresponding to specific data or functions related to said properties of a polychromatic lightwave, and third establishing the result in the form of any internal or external device task. OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to allow trillions of values or meanings to be associated with a single visible point of light, or other suitable particle, (comprising a combination of primary colors). There is no prior art for the unique polystate digital language proposed by the inventor. It is a unique, and novel characteristic of the present invention, that given any amount of signal representations using prior art methods, processes, or apparatus, required to transmit a pixel condition or signal representation of any kind (e.g., bits/pixels) to a television/monitor receiver, or other apparatus, the present invention is capable of reducing that amount of signal representations required (bits/pixels) by prior art by at least one, via a suitable visual spectrum language, and apparatus of the present invention for employing said visual spectrum language, which is capable of representing polychromatic and/or polyfrequency color and/or sound information in a single bit or pulse. For any given amount of signals or signal representations required by prior art, the present invention can reduce this number by at least one, but not to zero. It is therefore, an object of the present invention to dramatically increase the efficiency, speed, and quality in which frequency spectrum (e.g., television, radio , microwave) signals may be transmitted.

Prior art digital storage systems and languages are rooted in the notion of processing binary digital values of on/off or ones and zeros. In such prior art, the size of grouped ones and zeros grows in some proportional manner to the number of possible meanings or values associated with such a grouping. An object of the present invention is to dramatically increase the number of possible meanings or values for a given single "bit" of information. In the case of the present invention, a 'bit" is a color spectrum signal or representation, such as a grouping of three colors (e.g., red, green, blue or cyan, yellow, magenta) of a certain intensity. By placing two such similar colors in two discrete detectable film areas or storage sites, alternate specific values or meanings may be mapped with said colors. In this way, by knowing both the color and intensity, and particular placement within a film medium of such bits, alternate recognizable values or meanings can be understood. If, for example, a combination of visible points of light known as a color dot, consisting of varying intensities of color (e.g. , red, green, and blue), is recorded on a particular discrete storage site such as a film frame, surface, or visible area, at 16 bit intensity resolution for each primary color, then said color dot storage site can yield 2⁴⁸ values or distinct meanings, which represents approximately 280 trillion values or meanings for a given color dot on a given physical location. Improvements in bit intensity resolution yields higher possible values or meanings mappable to each such visible light point or combination of points . If predetermined alternate discrete location(s) for storing the identical point of light (e.g., red/green/blue combination color dot) are used, an additional 2⁴⁸ values or meanings can be mapped or associated with each of said additional alternate discrete locations or stored detectable light point. It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to allow 2ⁿ possible values or meanings to be associated with any given detectable point of light, which consists of a combination of colors (e.g red/green/blue) in varying intensities, and/or as recorded on a specific cell, frame or other discrete detectable film storage area, and/or as caused to be made detectable by any device or transmissible in single or multiple channel pathway (s). The value of (n) is limited only by a practical use of physical space. It is, therefore, another object of the present invention, to allow optical transfer of information, consisting of trillions upon trillions of values, or meanings in extremely short periods of time. To illustrate a commercial application, a still image or motion camera device may be engineered in accordance with the present invention to record audio information on frames of standard photo image film. It is an object of the present invention to allow an audiowave to be recorded or stored using non-moving optical media such as film. No prior art exists for recording real-time events, such as sound or motion video, on a fixed, non-moving or non-rotational color storage medium.

A digital language based on mapping data, rules, or functions to the visual color spectrum does not possess limitations of an on/off state control language. Heretofore digital languages describe information in terms of a one or a zero. Pulses may represent on, others represent off. Such binary languages pervade prior art computing languages. The present invention allows a single pixel of light (color spectrum pixel) to be assigned a computing process equivalent. A single pixel of light can be mapped to be interpreted as an entire command, task, or subroutine to be executed by a machine. A single pixel of light can be mapped to a plurality of alphanumeric meanings. In combination with other pixels residing on a film frame or set of frames, such pixel combinations (termed color sequences or color maps) can be mapped to digital phrases (bit/byte combinations), audiovisual waveforms, even spoken words in a given spoken language. It is conceivable one could store the entire textual contents of an Encyclopedia times four (4 versions of the same 3 million word encyclopedia) on a single frame of 35 millimeter silver halide film. If color illustrations are included, the very same frame of 35 millimeter silver halide film might contain an entire 3 million word encyclopedia plus over 13,500 color illustrations, perhaps having space available to hold more information. It is an object of the present invention, therefore, to dramatically improve the means by which textual or other information can be stored, shared, copied, archived, translated, published, transmitted or retrieved.

In a preferred embodiment, digital information may be converted to color sets. After mapping specific binary values to specified colors, one may store the resulting data. For mass storage, this may be accomplished by rendering said color spectrum digital equivalent information to silver halide film using a Kodak Cineon Digital Film Recorder. It is important to note that the present use of such a system is to render color spectrum digital information, such as a digital color motion picture sequence, to faithfully represent its original optical film state. No color based data or digital equivalent storage capability is offered or suggested by prior art whereas the instant invention allows colors to be recovered as data. The present invention allows transcription of any digital information into an optical equivalent data form, which is then "writable" to film using a film recorder means such as a Kodak Cineon Digital Film Recorder, for example. Other lower cost commercially available film recorders may also be employed, or any suitable derivation thereof, to accomplish the color data storage step in accordance with the present invention.

To detect or read-out or recover the stored information contained on a color data storage site such as a piece of developed color film or transparency, the present invention requires an optical scanning means, such as that contained in a Kodak Cineon Digital Film Scanner, or Kodak Photo CD Scanner, or other suitable commercially available image scanner used to detect the stored polystate visual spectrum data. During the detection process, the present invention does not require the film itself to move. To the extent that it may be desirable to scan multiple frames of film rapidly or in sequence, a frame-advance mechanism may be utilized.

Other than electronically sustained and hardwired RAM or ROM, prior art methods and apparatus for digital mass storage of information require motion by the medium itself in order to read out mass stores of information. Prior art thinking is that the higher the spin velocity of a CD-ROM, the higher the throughput capability of such a spinning mass storage medium.

The present invention allows massive amounts of information to be mailed, or otherwise distributed, cost effectively, and with significantly smaller size/weight/thickness ratios than prior art rotational methods and other electronic apparatus. It is conceivable that the present invention will allow a 2 hour motion picture film to be mailed in a letter size envelope for the cost of standard letter postal rates. More significantly, the present invention may allow a 2 hour length digital film, including any advertisements, to be placed inside of a subscription magazine, or other mailer, at low and extremely affordable duplication costs, without requiring a "clean-room" environment.

If used to identify products (e.g., supermarket codes) , or for product tracking (e.g., Overnight Express Service Identification Numbers), a simple single color dot (process or spot color), or any combination of dots, printed in fixed form (e.g., on paper) or otherwise suitably affixed to a product (e.g. , an overnight letter envelope) would be sufficient to uniquely identify trillions of individual products. Whereas prior art "bar code" techniques are binary in function, and require many printed lines (and therefore much more physical space) in order to digitally represent a simple five-digit zip code, or product identification number, the present invention requires only one extremely tiny dot which can be mapped to trillions of alphanumeric or other values or meanings. The present invention represents a dramatic savings in physical material or space required to identify unique product "codes". An optical scanning means capable of detecting visual spectrum information as digital combinations of red/green/blue intensities, such a color dot affixed to a product, can identify, track, and otherwise processed the detected color as desired. Alternatively, a single detectable color dot can be placed in a specific location of a pre-determined frame size or area comprising a known grid of cells or storage site locations. Depending on the spatial location of the single dot within the pre-determined frame size grid or area, a specific value or meaning may be mapped to said single visible dot. Postal Zip Codes, or other codes may be mapped to colors resident on specified spatial locations of a sticker or product label. Such a technique of mapping spatial position as well as colors to data, rules, or functions results in more economical use of each specific color. The technique of mapping color and spatial position to data, rules, or functions can result in fewer different colors required to convey the same set of data, rules, or functions, than when spatial position is not used. Reflex and spot colors are more economically printed than unique color mixtures, thereby providing an economic incentive to use spatial mapping for certain applications of the present invention.

Since optical scanning or CCD chip technology can detect a color at high resolutions (e.g., 1200 dots per inch), the minimum number of unique values or meamngs capable of being mapped to color dots grows significantly with the number of dots capable of being registered on a film, surface, or area. As explained herein, using color dots (e.g., red/green/blue combinations) in multiple locations within a frame, surface, or area results in several trillion fold increases in permutations for values or meanings per additional dot recorded within said frame, surface, or area.

It is therefore, an additional object of the present invention to significantly reduce the amount of physical space required to store information. In computing applications, for example, the present invention allows a software program to be stored on a postage sized stamp. It is to be made clear that, although photographic film (including microform, ultrafiche, etc.) represents the highest color resolutions at the time of this writing, it is not considered the only medium of storage proposed by the present invention. In fact, a computer program, or related data, may be mass produced by standard printing means (e.g., color paper). Heretofore technologies require magnetic media, plastics, and other forms of digital storage that involve mass manufacture, sometimes under extreme control of environment (such as compact disc clean rooms). The present invention offers computing or other information (programs, data, voice, etc.) dissemination techniques via any suitable color output device. A postage stamp sized paper printed program, for example, costs fractions of pennies per program to produce using modern day color printing techniques.

Provided proper registration marks are used while printing such a program (or as hidden within the color content itself), and without providing any special binding, the cost of distributing such a "printed" program or data in a modern magazine is negligible compared to any prior art. It is therefore an additional object of the present invention to dramatically reduce the cost associated with distribution of information for use by a computer or other suitable device constructed in accordance with the present invention (e.g., properly engineered Personal Digital Assistant, Portable Audio Device, Portable Television Device, Game Device, Telecommunications Device, VCR, Fax machine, and the like).

Affixing color dots or polystate digital colors to metallic license plates, identification cards, credit cards, and/or on vehicle window stickers, would allow rapid (light speed) photo-detection of complete vehicle identification information, including registration information. A hand held photo-optical scanning "gun" device embodiment of the present invention may be connected to a central database via a telecommunications link to provide more rapid and in-depth processing and identification than existing prior art bar codes or magnetic strips. Such techniques allow more identification information to be contained in a smaller space.

Similarly, polystate digital bit identification badges may be worn by employees containing all necessary voice/photo/ fingerprint/unique data identification stored in accordance with the methods taught herein. Such an identification badge comprising polystate digital language color dot arrangements could be fixed media, such as a credit card, or tamper proof electronic media. An electronic identification badge may be constructed in accordance with the present invention having a data storage means, a power means (battery), and a digital to analog converter means for translating digital representations of lightwaves into analog lightwaves via red/green/blue coated light emitting diodes, or TFT (color active matrix display technology developed by Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc.) or other suitable portable, battery powered, viewscreen/ television means to emit color data. Such a device may be constructed to cause a complete memory loss upon any physical tampering. For example, a fine-grid circuit mesh surrounding the case of such a device could cause complete memory loss upon any breaks occurring in the circuit. Any opening of such a device, no matter how small, would result in such a memory dump, thereby preventing personal identification information theft. Additionally, such a device may be caused to output said polystate digital language color dot arrangement identification information only upon keypad entry of a unique digital combination or code. It is desirable to maintain a wireless color-data line-of-sight or fiber optic communications. It is therefore another object of the present invention to facilitate multiple point communications, or communications satellite relays, using polystate digital techniques, capable of transferring trillions upon trillions of values or specific meanings per second from one point to another at the speed of light.

If used in conjunction with multiple concurrent optical transmission channels, the present invention would be capable of concurrent digital communications throughput carrying literally trillions of times more meaningful data per second than prior art. The present invention allows more participants per optical bandwidth unit. The present invention provides faster data throughput per participant for a given optical transmission medium.

Flexible polystate software design is afforded by the present invention by allowing a software designer to first "teach" or map within a machine the various specific values or meanings (interpretations/processes) for certain colors and/or color combinations and/or lightwave equivalents and/or polystate digital signal used for that particular type of machine. Each task or subtask of a computer program can be assigned or "mapped" to a unique color or color combination, as with a look-up table. Upon detection or registering the signal of said unique color or color combination or equivalent, such a machine would be instructed to execute the task or subtask requested. It is therefore another object of the present invention to reduce the size of instructions required to be given to a machine, in order for such a machine to be caused to branch or otherwise execute any given task or subtask, said size reduction to one single bit (of color, or other suitable polystate digital bit information called a color dot as defined herein). Such design has the advantage of being interoperable among devices utilizing the present invention, regardless of processor type, speed, make, model, bus, and so on. The present invention establishes a unique and universal computing language and program design capability based not on manipulation of dual-state ones and zeros, but based on manipulation of polystate colors capable of travelling or being propagated at the speed of light. IN THE DRAWING

Fig. 1 illustrates color pixels as used to store data in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 2 further illustrates the use of color pixels and their positions to store data in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 3 depicts examples of polystate digital color bit storage in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a block diagram depicting an implementation of a data storage and retrieval system in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

Fig. 6 illustrates a color data tri-register for performing mathematical functions in accordance with the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT EXAMPLE 1 - PORTABLE DIGITAL AUDIO DEVICE

In reference to drawing (Fig. 5), a laser or other suitable light illumination means 100 provides a stable lighting means for color data storage means 200. Said color data storage means 200 being a silver halide or other suitable color film housed in a protective shell or clear material which prevents bending or breakage. Lens 300 allows focused detection of color data pixels residing on color data storage means 200. Lens 300 may be controlled by any of known electromechanical means. Color data detection means 400 comprises a charge coupled device (CCD) chip array of any of known commercially available for color image scanning or capture. Color characteristic signals are routed and controlled by central processing unit CPU 500 which can be a microprocessor of suitable commercial manufacture such as an Intel i750 or 486DX2. Central processor unit 500 may also comprise desired color signal analyzer hardware. Color signal information is interpreted as original audio signal data by a color data interpreter means 700. Said color data interpreter means 700 comprises a mapping means that converts color signal information into frequency response signals corresponding to the original audio signal. Converted audio signals are controlled by CPU 500 and directed to suitable peripheral controller and input/output controller I/OC 800. To record audio signals as color the unit requires a suitable audio signal input 800, a suitable audio signal-to-color compiler means 700, and peripheral color output means 600 such as a high resolution color printer or film recording device. Color output means 600 may be utilized by the unit to temporarily store color information resulting in effective random access memory or color data buffering for the unit.

A system of storing, distributing, and manufacturing electronic portable digital audio devices in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention whereby first analog or digital audio signals are converted to first color dots in a device comprising the present invention. Said first color dots are subsequently stored in discrete color storage sites on silver halide film using a technique found in the Eastman Kodak Cineon Digital Film Recorder. A control color set is affixed to the film in accordance with prior art teachings for closed loop or other suitable color calibration methods. A suitable protective shield may be optionally used to envelope the film containing digital audio data in the form of said first color dots on the silver halide film medium.

A portable listening device containing a color scanning/detection means and signal conversion means allowing a first detected color input signal to be recovered as its original analog format for subsequent amplification and output via any of known audio reproduction means. EXAMPLE 2 - INPUT/OUTPUT IN A BINARY MICROCOMPUTING DEVICE

A system of storing and recovering color information having specific meaning in the form of values, rules, or functions. ASCII, HEXADECIMAL, MIDI, TONAL FREQUENCY, PROGRAMMING LANGUAGE, OPERATING SYSTEM, and any other desired information is stored as color dots for subsequent recovery in original form. Use of the present invention in a binary machine cannot achieve optimal processing speeds, however, is found useful as a mass storage and data communication means capable of being compatible with binary microprocessing systems.

Binary Input / Output functions in a binary machine are replaced by the present invention's use of polychromatic lightwaves where a given specified single color is capable of being mapped as trillions of l's and 0's. As an example, the color red may be mapped as being equivalent to binary 1; blue may be mapped as equivalent to binary value 2; green may be mapped as equivalent to binary 3. Causing output of the mixed primary colors red and blue yields a single color which when processed using an additive color mixing technique yields a binary equivalent value of n, as determined by the reader in a suitable mapping means.

In the example, we used an Intel ActionMedia II board as the data communications hardware. This application is not suggested by such prior art digital video hardware. Such hardware is designed to faithfully compress and reproduce video and audio information. In the instant invention, we use video CODEC capability to first convert our information stream to a color stream. We created a visual spectrum language which is a microcoded mapping means. Our digital video device becomes a data-to-color conversion means taking the first information signal and converting it to a first color video signal. The ActionMedia II hardware is then used to output said first color video signal as a color output video signal via NTSC, PAL, or other suitable video format. Said color output video signal may be broadcast via any known means or stored in a retrieval system such as a VCR for subsequent recovery as data in accordance with the present invention. EXAMPLE 3 - INTERACTIVE BROADCASTING EXAMPLE SET-TOP-BOX A system of interactively broadcasting data or any other program or information over-the-air or via cable broadcasting techniques. This preferred embodiment of the present invention fills the need for reaching the largest possible audience with an interactive broadcast. Present technologies fall short due to high bandwidth requirements of data transfers. The present invention solves this serious engineering problem by allowing any desired data to be added to a standard video broadcast signal, without adding bandwidth requirements to said standard video signal. In Example 2 we used the output of the digital video hardware to send a color video signal corresponding to specific data, rules, or functions which are mapped by the creator of a visual spectrum language. The color output video signal may be overlayed to any desired shape or size of the screen area. In over the air or cable broadcasts or commercials for entertainment television, such as M.T.V. or B.E.T. , one will often see an animated logos or other moving design. Using a broadcast signal keying technique, we are able to superimpose said color output video signal occurring in Example 2 over existing programming.

A set-top-box constructed in accordance with the present invention may be used to recover the information that is contained in said keyed color video signal. An ActionMedia II capture board provides an excellent color detector means. By microcoding AVK instructions to convert colors-to-data, rules, or functions in accordance with the present invention mapping means, we may quickly recover the information contained within the received television signal.

By detecting the specified pixel locations, a set-top-box equipped with hardware described in Example 2 will be capable of recovering the color pixel information into data, rules, or functions for subsequent display or interactive data pathway output or other viewer participation. EXAMPLE 4 - INTERACTIVE BROADCASTING EXAMPLE SET-TOP-BOX WITHOUT REQUIRING VIDEO OVERLAY OR KEYING TECHNIQUES

A system of interactively broadcasting data or any other program or information over-the-air or via cable broadcasting techniques without requiring alteration of any kind to an existing video signal. Since there are circumstances that preclude the use of video keying or overlay techniques during interactive broadcast, it is desirable to display a movie or video program in its entirety, without artistic alteration of any kind. The instant invention allows existing video signals to be mapped with data, rules, or functions, without any alteration or change in said existing video signal.

This example of a preferred embodiment of the present invention requires a first map generated whereby given data, rules or functions are correlated to a set of colors. Second, a movie or video program is analyzed by a machine or program for its color pixel content. After analysis, a map is generated corresponding to the given data, rules, or functions now correlated to the specific set of colors found during said analysis of said movie or video program. This map must be resident or accessible to a set-top-box during viewing of said movie or video program. Said map may be distributed over a telephone line or by the efficient color duplication method described in Example 1.

It is desirable that such a set-top-box embodiment of the present invention contain standard modem means and standard RAM means for uploading or downloading maps, text, or other standard binary instructions over a second input channel such as a telephone line. By transmitting said color-to-data map (which includes mapped pixel positions and colors) during a broadcast over said second input channel, we may incorporate the techniques which allow recovery of color as data within existing pixels of a given broadcast. This technique is termed "polystate virtual bit" data recovery, because the pixels or colors containing data occur within an existing signal or unaltered video program. EXAMPLE 5 - MASS DATA STORAGE FOR COMPUTING APPLICATIONS A system of storing and distributing data mass storage media in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention whereby first analog or digital signals are converted to first color dots in a computing device. Said first color dots are subsequently stored in discrete color storage sites on silver halide film using a film recording means 600 such as a Polaroid CI5000 film recorder. A control color set is affixed to the film in accordance with prior art teachings for closed loop or other suitable color calibration methods. A suitable protective shield may be optionally used to envelope the film containing digital audio data 200 in the form of said first color dots on the silver halide film medium.

A mapping means 700 was made to map discrete data, rules, or functions to a specific color or color set. A software program 700 that can convert binary representations into color was used to display time of day and map ASCII, HEX, MIDI, TONAL FREQUENCY, BINARY, and other english data sets to specific mixtures of Cyan, Yellow, or Magenta. Said map may be processed using a suitable CPU microprocessor 500.

Color output 600 including color calibration strip performed on suitable film recorder means such as POLAROID CI5000 or CI3000 Electronic Film Recorder.

Data recovery performed using a suitable film scanner means 300 and 400 such as a Nikon Coolscan Drive Bay 35mm slide scanner or Leaf Systems slide scanner or Kodak Photo CD film scanning system.

Software conversion means 700 to convert scanned slide containing data in the form of Cyan / Yellow / Magenta color pixels to original discrete values, rules, or functions mapped as said ASCII, HEX, MIDI, TONAL FREQUENCY, BINARY, and other language data sets. Specific detected colors were used to trigger events in a simple BASIC language program running in CPU 500. Said pre-determined specific detected colors caused logical program flow including branching, subroutining, video display, audio tone generation and other I/O functions in peripher/ I/OC 800. EXAMPLE 6 - POLYSTATE DIGITAL COMPUTING DEVICE

Apparatus forming a preferred embodiment of a new and unique computer processing capability whereby a plurality of polychromatic lightwaves are first generated as corresponding to an information-to-color mapping means, and secondly read-out as discrete data by a photonic detection means having suitable polychromatic filtration coupling.

Polychromatic lightwaves produced by suitable color lightwave emitter 100, such as a color laser beam 100 said emitted colors corresponding to an information mapping means 700. Suitable optical coupling means 300 for carrying a plurality of fiber optical input fibers into a suitable target/detection means 400 such as a HAMAMATSU LTD. multi-anode PMT. Said optical coupling means including lightwave filtration means for separating primary or other specified colors.

In the example, three target/detectors 400 are used:

a first multi-anode PMT designated for reading out Red lightwave properties ; and

a second multi-anode PMT designated for reading out Green lightwave properties; and

a third multi-anode PMT designated for reading out Blue lightwave properties.

Hardwired electronic pathways establish output results corresponding to the information read-out from the multi-anode PMT color sites. Addition and other mathematical functions may be performed by additive or subtractive color mixing techniques as hardwired commensurate with said detected information read-out from the multi-anode PMT or as optionally computed in a conventional CPU 500. Said mathematical functions may be performed by utilizing the tri-register addition method described in Fig. 6, or any derivations thereof as devised by the reader. This example depicts an embodiment of the present invention that optionally replaces the binary microprocessor 500 by hardwiring lightwave conversion functions for carrying out mathematical logic operations. EXAMPLE 7 - DATA-TO-COLOR MAPPING MEANS VISUAL SPECTRUM LANGUAGE (VSL) DATA-TO-COLOR MAPPING MEANS COPYRIGHT (C) 1993-1994, ELLIOTT D. BLATT. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE FOLLOWING EXAMPLE 7 ILLUSTRATES A SOFTWARE TABLE EMBODIMENT OF THE COLOR MAPPING MEANS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRESENT INVENTION WHEREBY EACH GIVEN DISCRETE COLOR IS MAPPED TO A PLURAUTY OF DISCRETE DATA VALUES, RULES OR FUNCTIONAL MEANINGS. LEGEND: C=CYAN

Y=YELLO

M=MAGENTA NOTE: COLORS ARE REPRESENTED IN INCREMENTS OF 10 PERCENT INTENSITY CHANGES THE % SYMBOL IS USED AS A SEPARATOR BETWEEN EACH ALTERNATE MEANING FOR A GIVEN DISCRETE COLOR FOR EXAMPLE, THE ENTRY

C0Y0M0%NUL%0%00%00000000%TRUE%UNVERSAL.GREETNG%

CONTAINS 6 ALTERNATIVE VALUES OR MEANINGS FOR THE BLACK COLOR. THE MAP CONTAINS DATA-TO-COLOR VALUES FOR ASCII, HEX, BINARY, ENGLISH,TONAL FREQUENCY, MIDI, COUNTRIES, COPYRIGHT CONVENTIONS, MATHEMATICAL OPERATORS, AND OTHER KEYBOARD OR PC INSTRUCTIONS

THE VISUAL SPECTRUM LANGUAGE (VSL) AND ALL OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT CONVENTIONS WORLDWIDE. NO PART OF THIS WORK MAY BE REPRODUCED IN ANY FORM WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE INVENTOR/ AUTHOR. Copyright 1993-1994, Elliott D. Blatt. All Rights Reserved.

Fig. 1╌ depicts how individual "pixels" (a type of color bit) can be arranged on a storage site such as film to store a frequency response curve including duration information.

By using two or more, color bits, such as (A1-A4), highly quantitative and accurate information can be stored regarding the frequency, duration, intensity, or other characteristics of a frequency response curve of any kind. The diagram depict use of an optical film medium, such as Kodak silver halide film, as a mass storage medium for information or data arranged in accordance with the present invention. Color pixels, (or color bits, as defined herein) are capable of storing any digital or analog information when arranged and interpreted by detecting color characteristics, or in conjunction with detection of colors in specified spatial positions. For example, pixel A3 may be assigned a pre-determined value of the frequency response equal to a known digital sampling of sound, such as a french horn. When combined with the color information of pixel A4 located adjacent to our light blue pixel A3, or otherwise suitably arranged as specified by a visual spectrum language (polystate digital language), we can know other characteristics about the french horn sound, such as its playback duration, or number of loops, or number of times to be repeated in a set time sequence, and so on. The pre-assigned value is limited only by the specific mapping means specification as set forth in a visual spectrum language (polystate digital language), yielding trillions of alternate related meanings which can be derived from detecting the color characteristics of a given color bit A1-A4. It will be clear to the reader that by simply altering the storage locations for either or both pixels (color bits), and mapping suitable meanings in a polystate digital language for such alternate locations, trillions⁽ⁿ⁾ possible values or meanings become possible for a single color, or alternate known color arrangement of pixel(s). The value of n is limited by a practical usage of the color storage site medium. A description of mathematical computation based on color and spatial position is described below in Fig. 6. Fig. 2╌ Similar to the first Fig. 1, this figure depicts an alternative use of both color data storage cell locations and mapping means for determining specific values, functions, or rules based on the spatial orientation or arrangement of color pixels on the storage medium.

alternative meanings for the colors red and green, as specified in a visual spectrum language. By grouping specified color rows or pixel groups, a combined value, rule, or function is derived. Said grouping may occur during the detection process, or as a second step via interpretation of the detected colors appropriately stored.

In the example, the colors red and green each have a specific value on the top row, however, a grouped meaning is derived from the bottom row occurrence of red, green, and yellow. Such grouping of colors as discrete values, rules, or functions must be specified in a mapping means called a visual spectrum language. Said mapping means may be hardwired or programmed in software. Fig. 3╌ depicts the mathematically possible values or meanings for multiple polystate (polychromatic) color data stored on a suitable substrate, film, surface, beam, or other discrete color storage site.. In the diagram, given an arbitrary constraint of 16 bit digital binary resolution to describe each color available in the visible light spectrum yields approximately 2⁴⁸ or over 280 trillion possible values for each position. By combining six distinct color bits, the values or meanings possible is 2⁴⁸ times the number of different color bits (which is 2⁶ in the example given) capable of being detected (or without signal) or detected from a constant or fixed location. Spatial location of color data on the color storage site adds a significant dimension to possible values or meanings, which in the example yields 2⁴⁸ × 2⁶ permutations. Fig. 4╌ is a block diagram showing an implementation of the process employed by the present invention whereby color is exploited for an enhanced mass information storage and recovery system. Fig. 5╌ consists of an illustration and diagram of a preferred device embodiment of the present invention. A "portable compact audio listening device" exemplifies the method or process of data storage and recovery in accordance with the present invention. Fig. 6╌ This example of addition functions using color consists of an implementation of the method of the present invention whereby addition is performed across three color registers having four possible states per color data pixel (off = 0; red = 1; green = 2; blue = 3) per register pixel position. A "position" is a discrete storage site for a color data pixel.

A simple base 64 mathematical model is used, which will be appreciated by any computer scientist, whereby each bit position of each register is capable of storing any combination (or none) of the red / green / blue color bits. A "column" comprises three identical positions (x,y) each residing on one of the three registers (z). Any given column is therefore capable of yielding 4³ (=64) values. In the example, a column contains the sum of each stored bit color value as added across all three registers.

For our example the following color-to-data mapping applies:

Empty (No color) = 0

Red color = 1

Green color = 2

Blue color = 3

For our example the following legend applies:

x╌ represents a horizontal spatial position on a given register.

y╌ represents a vertical spatial position on a given register.

z╌ represents a spatial position corresponding to which register is used. In register 1 where x=1, y=1, z = 1 position (1,1,1) yields 1 times the color value stored or detected in position (x = 1 ,y = 1 ,z = 1).

In register 1 where x=2, y=1, z= 1 position (2,1,1) yields 64 times the color value stored or detected in position (x=2,y=1,z=1).

In register 2 where x=1, y = 1, z=2 position (1,1,2) yields 4 times the color value stored or detected in position (x=1, y=1, z=2).

Since our example is limited to a 5x5 grid of color data positions within each color storage site register, our example is capable of generating numbers between zero and 64²⁵.

By simply detecting which color data positions contain known color bits, we can easily sum the values contained within the three registers. Zero (0) is expressed by all color register positions containing no color (empty). The sum of the three registers, which is equivalent to a polystate digital condition of solid black, yields zero. The number one (1) is understood by storing only a red color bit in position (1,1.1) (upper left position in the first register one). The number two (2) is understood by storing only a green color bit in position (1,1,1), and so on.

To derive the number four (4) result we store a red color in position (1,1,2) which is the upper left position in the second register two. The number five (5) is expressed by placing an additional red color bit in position (1,1,1). The sum of all registers, in this case, is equal to the number 5.

Let us start over, and store one blue color pixel in position (1,1,3), which is the upper leftmost position of register three. This yields a sum of all three registers equal to the number forty-eight (48). Storing a blue color pixel in position (1,1,2) yields a sum total of all three registers equal to the number sixty (60). By storing another blue color pixel in (1,1,1) we get a sum of all three registers equal to 63. To express 64 we empty the three registers, and store a red pixel at position 2,1,1 of register one. This is the discrete storage site referenced in the example as x=2, y=1,z=1.

In our crude model, we have shown the massive computational possibilities capable of being expressed by a single color, or combination of several colors. If the reader now uses a color spectrum beyond our solid use of red, green, and blue, to one which is a full color spectrum mixture, then huge values can be mapped, preassigned or interpreted within a single color, or combination of colors. The reader will appreciate that this kind of information travels and may be propagated at the speed of light.

The existence of commercially available hardware capable of being utilized by the present invention for allowing input of a plurality of polystate signals is well established. It will be apparent to the reader that singular devices comprising a combination of both color input and color output can be readily constructed using available technologies for both lightwave detection (color data input) and lightwave recording (color data output) means.

Although the present invention has been described above in terms of a specific embodiment, it is anticipated that alterations and modifications thereof will no doubt become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that the following claims be interpreted as covering all such alterations and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:

Claims

IN THE CLAIMS 1. A system for storing and interpreting information, comprising:

a color lightwave or color representation storage means having a plurality of storage sites;

a sensor means for detecting color spectrum;

a signal converter means for taking the first color lightwave or color representation input signal and operative to generate a second signal corresponding to a predetermined value, rule, or function associated with said first color lightwave or color representation input signal.

2. A system for storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 1 wherein said sensor means is capable of generating a signal corresponding to the spatial orientation or position of any given color lightwave or color representation read out from said storage sites.

3. A method of storing and interpreting information comprising the steps of : identifying a particular set of colors;

providing a data storage means for said colors having a plurality of discrete data storage sites;

identifying a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions each corresponding to one of said colors;

providing a signal conversion means operative to generate a second signal commensurate with the predetermined discrete value, rule, or function associated with a first color input signal;

storing data in said data storage means by electronically or physically depositing selected colors in selected storage sites;

detecting the color of the data stored in each said electronic or physical data storage site; and

using the signal conversion means to interpret or process the information content of the data read out of said storage sites.

4. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 3 and further comprising the steps of:

detecting the spatial position of a first color lightwave or color representation input signal relative to a given origin on said storage means or relative to a second color lightwave or color representation signal;

identifying a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions, each corresponding to any given possible combination of color and/or position; and using the signal conversion means to interpret or process the information content of the first signal read out of said storage means by generating a second signal commensurate with the predetermined value, rule, or function associated with the first detected input signal(s) indicating position or color or both.

5. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 3 and further comprising the steps of:

performing the storage step at a first location;

transmitting the stored data to a second location; and

performing the detection step at the second location.

6. A system means of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 1 and further comprising:

a mapping means for associating different discrete values, rules or functions with naturally occurring, existing, previously stored, or fixed color set (s); and said signal conversion means capable of generating a second signal corresponding to the first detected color lightwave or color representation signal indicating spatial relationship or position of a given color lightwave or color representation storage site relative to a specified origin or relative to any given color lightwave or color representation input signal.

7. A method of storing and interpreting information comprising the steps of: identifying a particular set of colors known to belong to said naturally occurring, existing, previously stored or fixed color set(s) contained within existing color storage sites or transmissible from a first location to a second location; mapping a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions to each of said existing color storage sites having a plurality of discrete sites;

providing a sensor means operative to detect the spatial position of said first color lightwave or color representation input signal relative to a given origin on said storage means or relative to a second color lightwave or color representation signal; providing signal conversion means operative to generate a second signal commensurate with the predetermined discrete value, rule, or function associated with a first color input signal or its spatial position or both;

detecting the color of the data stored in each of said existing electronic or physical color storage site;

detecting the spatial position of said first color lightwave or color representation input signal relative to a given origin on said storage means or relative to a second color lightwave or color representation signal; and

using the signal conversion means to interpret or process the information content of the data read out of said storage sites by generating a second signal commensurate with the predetermined value, rule, or function associated with the first detected input signals which indicate position or color or both.

8. A system for storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 1 whereby:

said storage means is alternatively capable of storing stable particle arrangements in a plurality of discrete storage sites;

said sensor means operative to detect known stable particle arrangements each capable of conveying more than on/off states; and

said signal converter means for taking the first particle input signal and operative to generate a second signal corresponding to a predetermined value, rule, or function associated with said first particle input signal.

9. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 8 as applied to the use of stable particles in lieu of color, and further comprising the steps of:

10. A system for storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 1 whereby:

said storage means comprises a radio frequency spectrum storage means; said sensor means operative to detect radio frequency spectrum signals; and said signal converter means comprises analog or digital signal processing means for taking a first radio frequency input signal and operative to generate a second signal corresponding to a predetermined value, rule, or function associated with said first radio frequency input signal.

11. A system for storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 10 as applied to use of radio frequency signals in lieu of color, wherein said sensor means is capable of generating a signal corresponding to the spatial orientation or position of any given color lightwave or color representation read out from said storage sites.

12. A system for storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 1 where said sensor means is capable of generating a signal corresponding to other color characteristics such as intensity, saturation, hue, of any given color lightwave or color representation signal read out from said storage sites.

13. A method of storing and interpreting information further comprising the steps of:

detecting additional color characteristics of a first color lightwave or color representation input signal; and

identifying a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions, each corresponding to any given possible combination of color and/or position and/or any other signal indicating detected color characteristics of the first color lightwave or color representation input signal; and

using the signal conversion means to interpret or process the information content of the first signal read out of said storage means by generating a second signal commensurate with the predetermined value, rule, or function associated with the first detected input signal(s) indicating position or color or other color characteristics or any combination thereof.

14. A method and system of storing and interpreting information whereby mathematical operations may be conducted by combining the values, rules, or functions associated with any given detected color lightwave, color representation, radio frequency, particle, or equivalent with the values, rules, or functions associated with any other given detected color lightwave, color representation, radio frequency, particle, or equivalent in a signal processing device.

15. A method and system of storing and interpreting information whereby: compiler functions may be constructed by providing values, rules, or functions associated with any given detected color lightwave, color representation signals, radio frequency, particle, or equivalents or a combination in a signal processing device; and

decompiler or interpreter functions may be constructed by a reverse process whereby color lightwaves, color representation signals, radio frequency, particle, or equivalents are converted into corresponding values, rules, or functions in a signal processing device.

16. A method and system of storing and interpreting information whereby operating system functions may be constructed by:

providing values, rules, or functions associated with any given first detected color lightwave, or color representation input signal in a signal processing device; and

providing output signal results to any internal or external device pathways based on the meanings recovered or interpreted from said first detected color lightwave or color representation signal where said output signal results correspond to various specified operational tasks.

17. A method and system of storing and interpreting information whereby random access memory functions may be constructed by:

electronically or physically storing or buffering color lightwaves or color lightwave representations in physical or electronic storage sites comprising the storage step recited in claim 3; and

performing the detection step as recited in claim 3.

18. A method and system of storing and interpreting information whereby read-only memory functions may be constructed by electronically or physically storing or buffering color lightwaves or color representations in physical or electronic storage sites comprising the storage step recited in claim 3.

19. A method and system of storing and reading out information, comprising the steps of:

identifying a particular set of colors;

providing a data storage medium having a plurality of discrete data storage sites;

identifying a set of different discrete values each corresponding to one of said colors;

providing a look-up table indicating the information content of each of said discrete values; storing data in said storage means by depositing selected colors in selected storage sites;

detecting the color of the data stored in each said storage site; and using the look-up table to identify the information content of the data read out of said storage sites.

20. A method as recited in claim 19, and further comprising the steps of: performing the storage step at a first location;

transmitting the stored data to a second location; and

performing the detection step at the second location.

21. A method of storing and reading out information, comprising the steps of: identifying a set of m colors;

providing a data storage medium having a plurality of n discrete data storage sites each having a particular position on the medium;

identifying a set of different discrete values each corresponding to a different combination of one of said colors and one of said storage sites;

providing a look-up table indicating the information content of each of said discrete values;

storing data in said storage means by depositing a selected set of colors in a selected set of said storage sites;

detecting the color of the data stored in each said storage site; and using the look-up table to interpret the information content of the data read out of said storage sites.

22. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 8 as applied to the use of stable particles in lieu of color, and further comprising the steps of:

performing the storage step at a first location;

transmitting the stored data to a second location; and

performing the detection step at the second location.

23. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 8 as applied to the use of stable particles in lieu of color, comprising the steps of: identifying a particular set of colors known to belong to said naturally occurring, existing, previously stored or fixed color set(s) contained within existing color storage sites or transmissible from a first location to a second location; mapping a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions to each of said existing color storage sites having a plurality of discrete sites;

24. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 10 as applied to use of radio frequency signals in lieu of color, and further comprising the steps of:

detecting the spatial position of a first color lightwave or color representation input signal relative to a given origin on said storage means or relative to a second color lightwave or color representation signal; identifying a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions, each corresponding to any given possible combination of color and/or position; and using the signal conversion means to interpret or process the information content of the first signal read out of said storage means by generating a second signal commensurate with the predetermined value, rule, or function associated with the first detected input signal(s) indicating position or color or both.

25. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 10 as applied to use of radio frequency signals in lieu of color, and further comprising the steps of:

performing the storage step at a first location;

transmitting the stored data to a second location; and

performing the detection step at the second location.

26. A method of storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 10 as applied to use of radio frequency signals in lieu of color, comprising the steps of: identifying a particular set of colors known to belong to said naturally occurring, existing, previously stored or fixed color set(s) contained within existing color storage sites or transmissible from a first location to a second location; mapping a set of different discrete values, rules, or functions to each of said existing color storage sites having a plurality of discrete sites;

detecting the color of the data stored in each of said existing electronic or physical color storage site; detecting the spatial position of said first color lightwave or color representation input signal relative to a given origin on said storage means or relative to a second color lightwave or color representation signal; and

27. A system for storing and interpreting information as recited in claim 3 where said sensor means is capable of generating a signal corresponding to other color characteristics such as intensity, saturation, hue, of any given color lightwave or color representation signal read out from said storage sites.