Image and video compression in very large self-indexing databases

Self-learning multimedia databases using parallel omni dimensional networks

Application Proposal: 1999

Abstract: Large image and video databases (and storage of video on CD-ROM or DVD) are now designed according to an information theory originally published by Claude Shannon in 1948. According to that theory data storage requirement is determined entirely by the hardware, such as screen size, resolution and frame rates in television. The images actually shown on the screen are irrelevant such that random noise images would require the same storage space as blank images. With the new Autosophy information theory, in contrast, storage space is determined only by the image content (motion and complexity) while image size, resolution and frame rates would become virtually irrelevant. Implementing the new information theory in software or chipsets may provide orders of magnitude lossless data compression and, if desired, a virtually unbreakable encryption method. Data storage is hyperspace saturating in that previously stored data is used to compress subsequent data. This leads to orders of magnitude increase in storage capacities. Using Content Addressable Memories the search access to any record or pattern becomes virtually instantaneous and independent of the database size. Thin film memories printed onto large stainless steel foils may result in Terabit sized storage modules for very large databases which would consume extremely low power and be virtually indestructible, self-repairing, and self-indexing.

Anticipated Applications: A software package will be developed to compress large image or video files in databases or Internet website servers. This may result in orders of magnitude lossless image compression. Video can be stored on CD-ROM or Digital Video Disc (DVD) for increased storage capacities. Compressing the images or video is a slow process and it may thus take seconds to compress each image frame. However, retrieving live video only requires software. Full length digitized movies may be stored in databases or discs and later played back with perfect image quality. A new Content Addressable Read Only Memory (CAROM) may be developed to store whole movies or music recordings on credit card sized plastic modules. The new memories do not require complex lasers or turntables for play back. The modules would withstand rough handling, vibrations, and dirt contamination. A very large memory module may look like a roll of stainless steel foil the size of a roll of bathroom tissue.

Keywords: Autosophy, data compression, Multimedia Databases, Archiving, Memory

Available downloadable documents:

Proposal document – MS Word doc

Related Publication 2004 – Webpage htm