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Title: Inference-based constraint satisfaction supports explanation

Conference ·
OSTI ID:430674
;  [1]
  1. Univ. of New Hampshire, Durham, NH (United States)

Constraint satisfaction problems are typically solved using search, augmented by general purpose consistency inference methods. This paper proposes a paradigm shift in which inference is used as the primary problem solving method, and attention is focused on special purpose, domain specific inference methods. While we expect this approach to have computational advantages, we emphasize here the advantages of a solution method that is more congenial to human thought processes. Specifically we use inference-based constraint satisfaction to support explanations of the problem solving behavior that are considerably more meaningful than a trace of a search process would be. Logic puzzles are used as a case study. Inference-based constraint satisfaction proves surprisingly powerful and easily extensible in this domain. Problems drawn from commercial logic puzzle booklets are used for evaluation. Explanations are produced that compare well with the explanations provided by these booklets.

OSTI ID:
430674
Report Number(s):
CONF-960876-; TRN: 96:006521-0049
Resource Relation:
Conference: 13. National conference on artifical intelligence and the 8. Innovative applications of artificial intelligence conference, Portland, OR (United States), 4-8 Aug 1996; Other Information: PBD: 1996; Related Information: Is Part Of Proceedings of the thirteenth national conference on artificial intelligence and the eighth innovative applications of artificial intelligence conference. Volume 1 and 2; PB: 1626 p.
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English