| In this dissertation I investigate some of the enabling technologies required for next generation optical data storage devices based on three-dimensional (multi-layer) optical memories. Three-dimensional optical memories are seen as advantageous due to their potential for extremely high capacities, high data rates, parallel readout capability, and fast access times. I will begin with a look at performance issues relating to parallel-access, three-dimensional memories in general, and then I will focus particularly on the requirements for a 3D optical memory which has the specific application of large-scale physical data distribution.;I will present both the materials and recording architecture for a new type of three-dimensional optical memory which has been specifically designed to be capable of extremely rapid data storage, otherwise known as data stamping. The new media is based on a photopolymer material which has been doped with a fluorescent dye. Data is recorded by forcing the diffusional transport of fluorescent molecules within the polymer host. An intensity threshold observed in the recording response of this material permits layers within a volume to be recorded without inducing severe inter-layer crosstalk. The origin of this non-linearity is demonstrated through a numeric characterized experimentally.;A method for the simultaneous optical stamping of multi-lay dimensional, bit-oriented optical storage media is then described W. holographic element with multiple reference beams to compose thee into space. The expected performance of such a holographic stamping investigated through a model of the coherent noise effects which interference of the many data layers with each other. It is shown that noise values may be achieved through the use of semi-coherent light of the hologram. To demonstrate the concept, a two-layer stamping element and used to simultaneously stamp two layers of data into the 3D fluorescent photopolymer memory. |
