Patent ID: 8082271

Claim:
A data retrieval system comprising: a) a data retrieval apparatus comprising a base unit having a spherical body having a map of the world, whose surface bearing a predetermined set of optically coded index information on geographical areas on said spherical body; said base unit further comprising: i) a memory device for storing data information associated with said optically coded index information, said data information comprising voice data information; ii) a controller for retrieving from the memory device the data information; iii) a first wireless receiver connected to said controller; iv) a second wireless transceiver for communicating with a remote network; said second wireless transceiver connected to said controller; v) a display unit, said display unit connected to said controller; vi) a voice output unit connected to said controller: b) a handheld operator, said operator further comprising: i) an optical sensor for optically sensing said optically coded index information when the sensor is brought close to the surface of the base unit; ii) a first wireless transmitter, said first transmitter sending said optically coded index information to said first wireless receiver in said base unit; wherein when said first wireless receiver receives said optically coded index information from said first wireless transmitter, said controller retrieves from said memory device the data information based on a first reference to said optically coded index information sensed by said sensor, displays said data information on said display unit and outputs said voice data information on said voice output unit; c) a first network connected to said data retrieval apparatus; d) a central server connected to said first network; and e) a second network connected to said central server containing data information and image corresponding to said sensed optically coded index information; wherein when said user selects a piece of said optically coded index information on said data retrieval apparatus, said data retrieval apparatus requests and receives from said central server said the data information and image, whereby said data information corresponding to any selected location can be displayed by said data retrieval apparatus and output by said audio output unit.