Abstract: A method of managing digital objects in a network is presented. The objects are stored at locations accessible in the network using a storage technique which renders the digital objects secure against unauthorized access. Pointer information which associates each digital object identifier with a pointer indicating the location of the stored digital object is also stored in the network. For each digital object validation information is stored, separately from the digital object, and is sufficient to permit a determination whether a purported instance of a digital object is identical to the original.

Abstract: One or more portions of a digital object are authenticated using verification information contained in a unique persistent identifier for the object as a whole.

Abstract: Tasks can be done on a network of multiple computers interconnected by communication links. At each of the computers, Knowbot programs may be received and transmitted on the communication links, and may be stored and created; and execution of the tasks associated with the Knowbot programs may be advanced. Each Knowbot program includes a globally unique identifier; navigation information defining a route through the network; and information concerning a task to be done. Knowbot programs may interact with each other and with other network resources. Authenticated Knowbot service stations and Couriers may be used to protect data as well as control its application in the network environment according to stated terms and conditions.

Abstract: A method of managing digital objects in a network is presented. The objects are stored at locations accessible in the network using a storage technique which renders the digital objects secure against unauthorized access. Pointer information which associates each digital object identifier with a pointer indicating the location of the stored digital object is also stored in the network. For each digital object validation information is stored, separately from the digital object, and is sufficient to permit a determination whether a purported instance of a digital object is identical to the original.

Abstract: Tasks can be done on a network of multiple computers interconnected by communication links. At each of the computers, Knowbot programs may be received and transmitted on the communication links, and may be stored and created; and execution of the tasks associated with the Knowbot programs may be advanced. Each Knowbot program includes a globally unique identifier; navigation information defining a route through the network; and information concerning a task to be done. Knowbot programs may interact with each other and with other network resources. Authenticated Knowbot service stations and Couriers may be used to protect data as well as control its application in the network environment according to stated terms and conditions.

Abstract: A method of managing digital objects in a network is presented. The objects are stored at locations accessible in the network using a storage technique which renders the digital objects secure against unauthorized access. Pointer information which associates each digital object identifier with a pointer indicating the location of the stored digital object is also stored in the network. For each digital object validation information is stored, separately from the digital object, and is sufficient to permit a determination whether a purported instance of a digital object is identical to the original.

Abstract: An unconstrained pointing interface for natural human interaction with a display-based computer system includes a hand-manipulated pointer configured to permit it to be (1) aimed by line of sight to point at any arbitrary position within the user's field of view, including positions beyond the user's natural reach, and (2) swept along any arbitrary path and at any arbitrary speed within the user's natural capability. A detector detects emanations from at least some positions at which the pointer may be aimed; and circuitry identifies the locations of positions at which the user is aiming the pointer. The interface enables the user to point to a position within his field of view and beyond his reach, move his hand along any arbitrary path and at any arbitrary speed within the user's natural capability to point to another position, and so on, and to have the circuitry automatically identify the locations of the series of positions to which he has pointed.

Abstract: Methods of managing digital objects in a network are presented. Holders of rights in digital objects are enabled to control terns and conditions under which they are accessed by users in a network, or are granted to others.

Abstract: An unconstrained pointing interface for natural human interaction with a display-based computer system includes a hand-manipulated pointer configured to permit it to be (1) aimed by line of sight to point at any arbitrary position within the user's field of view, including positions beyond the user's natural reach, and (2) swept along any arbitrary path and at any arbitrary speed within the user's natural capability, A detector detects emanations from at least some positions at which the pointer may be aimed; and circuitry identifies the locations of positions at which the user is aiming the pointer. The interface enables the user to point to a position within his field of view and beyond his reach, move his hand along any arbitrary path and at any arbitrary speed within the user's natural capability to point to another position, and so on, and to have the circuitry automatically identify the locations of the series of positions to which he has pointed.