RAPID: A Rotating Associative Processor for Information Dissemination,

Abstract : The applications of associative memories and processors to non-numerical symbol-manipulation problems, in particular information storage and retrieval, are reviewed. An associative processor is proposed that can perform string processing and pattern matching operations needed for information retrieval application. It uses a cyclic memory device with a very high data rate in conjunction with an array processor. This system is called RAPID, Rotating Associative Processor for Information Dissemination, since it uses a rotating memory device and processes information associatively. A specific design for the array processing section is given. Some applications of this associative processor are illustrated through examples. (Author)