Project Title:
Incremental Mixed-Initiative Planning and Scheduling Using Constraint Hierarchies
94-1 06.02 7828
Incremental Mixed-Initiative Planning and Scheduling Using
Constraint Hierarchies
Abstract:
NASA is challenged by large, complex planning and scheduling
problems. These problems require powerful problem solving
techniques and sophisticated knowledge representation schemes.
This research proposes to further advance the technology
available for effectively solving large, complex planning and
scheduling problems. Specifically, this research will focus on
using constraint hierarchy technology, developed at the
University of Washington, to support automated planning and
scheduling of NASA missions, development efforts, and
organizational tasks. This technology has been formalized through
the development of a constraint hierarchy theory. This theory
defines an architecture in which constraints are represented in
a priority hierarchy. Computational mechanisms have been
developed that perform incremental constraint satisfaction and
automated constraint relaxation. This will be the first
application of this promising new technology to the planning and
scheduling domain. This technology will provide the capability
to perform incremental, mixed initiative planning and scheduling.
Constraint hierarchy theory concepts allow preferential
constraints, which often influence planning and scheduling
decisions, to be used in the automated solution of complex
planning and scheduling problems. During Phase I of this project,
the feasibility of applying constraint hierarchy technology to
planning and scheduling will be verified and demonstrated.
The primary product would be a constraint-based reasoning system
based on constraint hierarchy technology and marketed as a C++
class library that could be integrated into a wide range of
applications. Another product would be an automated planning and
scheduling engine that would be integrated into existing
scheduling products.
Key words
Merritt Systems, Inc.
P.O. Box 542103
Merritt Island, FL 32954-2103