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ICLP
2009
Springer

Encoding Table Constraints in CLP(FD) Based on Pair-Wise AC

15 years 25 days ago
Encoding Table Constraints in CLP(FD) Based on Pair-Wise AC
We present an implementation of table constraints in CLP(FD). For binary constraints, the supports of each value are represented as a finite-domain variable, and action rules are used to propagate value exclusions. The bit-vector representation of finite domains facilitates constant-time removal of unsupported values. For n-ary constraints, we propose pair-wise arc consistency (AC), which ensures that each value has a support in the domain of every related variable. Pair-wise AC does not require introducing new problem variables as done in binarization methods and allows for compact representation of constraints. Nevertheless, pair-wise AC is weaker than general arc consistency (GAC) in terms of pruning power and requires a final check when a constraint becomes ground. To remedy this weakness, we propose adopting early checks when constraints are sufficiently instantiated. Our experimentation shows that pair-wise AC with early checking is as effective as GAC for positive constraints.
Neng-Fa Zhou
Added 22 Nov 2009
Updated 22 Nov 2009
Type Conference
Year 2009
Where ICLP
Authors Neng-Fa Zhou
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