Abstract: A three dimensional photonic crystal and layer-by-layer processes of fabricating the photonic crystal. A substrate is exposed to a plurality of first microspheres made of a first material, the first material being of a type that will bond to the templated substrate and form a self-passivated layer of first microspheres to produce a first layer. The first layer is exposed to a plurality of second microspheres made of a second material, the second material being of a type that will bond to the first layer and form a self-passivated layer of second microspheres. This layering of alternating first and second microspheres can be repeated as desired to build a three dimensional photonic crystal of desired geometry. Charged polymers such as polyelectrolyte coatings can be used to create the bonds.

Abstract: A three dimensional photonic crystal and layer-by-layer processes of fabricating the photonic crystal. A templated substrate is exposed to a plurality of first microspheres made of a first material, the first material being of a type that will bond to the templated substrate and form a self-passivated layer of first microspheres to produce a first layer. The first layer is exposed to a plurality of second microspheres made of a second material, the second material being of a type that will bond to the first layer and form a self-passivated layer of second microspheres. This layering of alternating first and second microspheres can be repeated as desired to build a three dimensional photonic crystal of desired geometry.

Abstract: A wireless communication base station consistent with certain embodiments of the present invention collects user transmissions and creates and maintains a database storing data that relates communication parameters to a geographic location. A base station receiver receives data packets containing data describing a geographic location of a mobile communication node. The base station predicts a future geographic location of the mobile communication node, and transmits communication parameters to the mobile communication node associated with the predicted future geographic location. The mobile communication node consistent with certain embodiments of the invention has a GPS positioning device that determines a geographic location of the communication node. A transceiver transmits data representing the geographic location and receives data representing communication parameters determined as a function of the data representing the geographic location.