ABSTRACT

In the CSP approach, a problem is described by (1) a finite number of state variables, (2) the definition domains of those variables, and (3) a set of constraints the variables must satisfy in every solution to the problem. For example, suppose an audiovisual system is made up of seven components that one can choose from catalogues (amplifiers, tuners, CD or cassette players, recorders, antennas, speakers, and TV screens). The constraints to be satisfied involve compatibility, quality, and cost. A CSP solution to the problem assigns a value to each variable in its definition domain while complying with all problem constraints.