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Non-systematic Search and Learning: An empirical study

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Principles and Practice of Constraint Programming — CP98 (CP 1998)

Part of the book series: Lecture Notes in Computer Science ((LNCS,volume 1520))

Abstract

This paper explores the performance of a new complete nonsystematic search algorithm learn-SAT on two types of 3-SAT problems, (i) an extended range of AIM problems [1] and (ii) structured unsolvable problems [2]. These are thought to present a difficult challenge for non-systematic search algorithms. They have been extensively used to study powerful special purpose SAT algorithms. We consider two of these, viz. the tableau-based algorithm of Bayardo & Schrag [2] and relsat. We compare their performance with that of learn-SAT, which is based on restart-repair and learning no-goods. Surprisingly, learn-SAT does very well. Sometimes it does much better than the other two algorithms; at other times they are broadly equivalent; and then there are some “anomalies”. One thing at least is clear, learn-SAT solves problems which many would predict are beyond its scope. The relative performance of the three algorithms generates several interesting questions. We point to some of them with a view to future research. The empirical paradigm in this paper reflect some of the views outlined by Mammen & Hogg [10].

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Richards, E.T., Richards, B. (1998). Non-systematic Search and Learning: An empirical study. In: Maher, M., Puget, JF. (eds) Principles and Practice of Constraint Programming — CP98. CP 1998. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 1520. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-49481-2_27

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-49481-2_27

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  • Print ISBN: 978-3-540-65224-3

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-540-49481-2

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