Abstract: In a method and system for the iterative and simultaneous comparison of a flow of data with a group of reference data items, the reference data items are recorded in the form of logical entities in a two dimensional memory table, one entity per column, each line containing data elements of the same order of each reference entity. The elements of the flow of data are compared in parallel and successively with those contained in the lines of the table, according to a first function provided by a logic unit. Each time, the results of a comparison are combined with the results already obtained (or, in the case of the first comparison results, with a set of initial register states, typically a "transparent" all-true set of states to pass on the first results to the next combination step which is usually the first meaningful combination step) according to a second function provided by a second logic unit, the result of the method being, in the simplest case, given by the final comparison.

Abstract: A characteristic message exchange procedure is performed by a set of contler units at separate stations and of functionally identical design. The combination of a controller unit and a utilization unit that characterizes the application of the station constitutes a complete station. Among other things, the controller units provide sequencing of the transmitting privilege among the stations one by one. All message data are classified into four basic message models representing the applications of the stations. The stations are interconnected by a single common transmission channel and the controllers are equipped to be sensitive to only four basic message models. No central control unit is required for monitoring transmissions between stations. All active stations receive all messages essentially simultaneously.