Sparse distributed memory

Sparse distributed memory (SDM) is a mathematical model of human long-term memory introduced by Pentti Kanerva in 1988 while he was at NASA Ames Research Center.

This memory exhibits behaviors, both in theory and in experiment, that resemble those previously unapproached by machines – e.g., rapid recognition of faces or odors, discovery of new connections between seemingly unrelated ideas, etc. Sparse distributed memory is used for storing and retrieving large amounts (${\displaystyle 2^{1000}}$ bits) of information without focusing on the accuracy but on similarity of information. There are some recent applications in robot navigation and experience-based robot manipulation.