4th Dimension (Imagine a 4^th Dimesional logo HERE )

We cannot create anything fourth dimensional in three-dimensional space, right? Actually, we can.

Figure A shows a one-dimensional array (1d), a two-dimensional array of computer memory (2d) and a three-dimensional matrix or cube (3d). Notice that each higher dimension is at 90 degrees to the previous dimension. We cannot add another dimension to fig 3d, because it is not possible to add another line at 90 degrees to the existing lines. Let's try another approach.

In figure B, the memory cells in the second dimension are "folded" down into the first dimension, such that we end with the configuration C. The address lines to each memory location is exactly the same as it was, just that everything is arranged in one dimension. Note that the actual position in the array is unimportant as long as each cell has two lines to it at 90 degrees

In figure D, another row of cells has been added to those of figure C. Note that it conforms to our requirement that each new memory "plane" is at 90 degrees to the previous one. The arrows pointing down show the direction of movement to make the array one-dimensional again.

Think of a cube made of Christmas lights. Grasp opposite corners of the cube, and pull. It once more resembles a string of lights, but the wiring remains as if it were a cube. In figure E, the array was left uncompressed for clarity, adding another layer above it to represent its fourth dimensional counterpart. The orange lines represent the fourth dimensional address lines. Obviously, things are becoming difficult to follow, but any number of "dimensions" can be added.

Is this only a novelty? Computers today are designed and manufactured by other computers. Once the appropriate algorithms were developed, implementation would be easy.

As a side note, neurons in the human brain can have several thousand inputs. The inputs may be digital or analog. Furthermore some are inhibitory, and some are differentially integrated.

E-mail: [email protected]