Problem Solving: Methods, Programming and Future Concepts
By O. V. German, Dimitri V. Ofitserov
* Publisher: Elsevier Publishing Company
* Number Of Pages: 434
* Publication Date: 1995-11-01
* ISBN-10 / ASIN: 0444822267
* ISBN-13 / EAN: 9780444822260
* Binding: Hardcover
Problem solving is the very area of artificial intelligence (AI) which, probably, will
never result in a complete set of formalized theories, in a kind of pragmatic philosophy,
or in a "universal" applied discipline. Studying the questions concerning this area
encompasses different concepts, models and theories.
In this connection the main accent falls on the theoretical framework (paradigm) of a
problem solving system which should be considered from the viewpoint of the triad
"human-problem-computer". In order to be effective, problem solving systems (or, more
exactly, computer-aided problem solving systems (CAPSS)) should integrate human-
solver's skill and abilities. That is, while humans are responsible for the "informal" part
of problem solving activities the computer solves the "formal" part respectively.
When solving a problem, the human's properties are put to the forefront. It is the
human's level of skill, role in the informal and creative aspects of problem solving, and
the human's interpretation of the solution which affects the outcome most strongly.
Humans capture, as we are often reminded , the " art of problem solving" while
computers are ideal for carrying out extensive calculations and conducting search
through the problem space.
Within this framework, both theoretical (mathematical) background and
programming concept should be developed to provide solution for the following tasks:
• organizing the search activities of the human;
• automating the solving processes of the computer;
• creating program environment which provides an interface between the human
and the computer;
• partitioning the tasks between the human and the computer in some optimal way.
These tasks are considered in the book. Our consideration is based on a new concept
of CAPSS which incorporates the theory of weak methods, meta-procedures, and a
programming paradigm which serves to support solving activities in CAPSS. (It should
be noted here that some new terms, e.g. "weak methods", "meta-procedures", "CAPSS",
etc., are explained in the following text. The reader can use the glossary for help at the
end of the book.)
It is necessary to note that we consider weak methods mainly in the mathematical
light. It is supposed, therefore, that the reader has a definite level of the mathematical
culture (especially in the fields of discrete optimization theory and mathematical logic).
However, the examples from these fields can be omitted without harm.
The book is oriented to the different groups of readers: mathematicians, specialists in
computer sciences, and programmers. It can be useful for the post-graduates and the
students, specializing in AI and applied mathematics.
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