Domino computer
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A domino computer is a Turing-complete mechanical computer built using dominoes[1] to represent mechanical amplification of digital signals. Because of the existence of multiple schemes, domino computer will be used in this article as a collective noun, denoting any particular scheme that uses the mentioned base phenomenon (of domino sequences) for building machines equivalent to a computer. This choice of terminology may be somewhat arbitrary, because only few resources write on this topic.[2]
Contents |
[edit] Basic phenomenon
Sequences of standing dominoes (so that each topples the next one) can be arranged to demonstrate digital concepts such as amplification and digital signals. It is some digital information that is conducted by a string of dominoes, thus this effect differs from phenomena
- where energy is conducted without ampification, thus it dissipates
- or where amplification is applied to non-digital signals, thus noise effects occur.
The Domino Day event shows many constructs, mainly with purpose of entertainment. Some constructs may remind people to digital circuits. Some of them suggest that not only telegraph-like tools can be shown, but also simple information processing modules can be built.
It is possible to use this phenomenon for constructing unconventional computing tools [1] [2] [3]. The base phenomenon is sufficient to achieve this goal [2], but also sophisticated “mechanical synapses” can be used (see online [4]), to the analogy of electrical synapses or chemical synapses.
[edit] Other related unconventional computing schemes
Some other mechanical computing schemes may have theoretical or didactic relevance, see billiard ball or hydraulic ones. [5] Domino computer is another interesting mechanic computing scheme.
The kinetic artist Tim Fort, has worked out the basic AND, OR, NOT, control, and memory elements for a universal Turing computer using series of falling popsicle sticks in the 'herringbone' form. The basic schema could also be expanded to encompass dominoes and other chain-reaction phenomena. However, due to the extreme number of sticks needed to do even a simple calculation (such as adding two four-digit binary numbers), such a computer may remain theoretical.
[edit] Notes
- ^ a b Domino computer
- ^ a b c Domino computers, a detailed description written by David Johnston
- ^ James Maguire: IBM Creates Molecular Computer Circuit. NewsFactor Magazine Online, 2006. A topic in the intersection of [Domino Toppling|molecular computing] and domino computer
- ^ Perrucci, Mike: Domino Toppling.
- ^ Penrose, Roger: The Emperor's New Mind. Oxford University Press, 1990. See also corresponding article on it.
