Constraints Solving as the Coordination of Inference Engines

Abstract

In this chapter we consider the application of coordination to (cooperative) constraint solving. This topic raises several issues and questions, such as: Why use coordination models for (cooperative) constraint solving? What are the possible approaches and what categories of coordination models are best suited for this task? Are coordination languages just a new way of implementing solver (cooperation), or do they also improve solving techniques/methodologies and open new directions? What can constraint solving expect from coordination languages and models?