Applying Lattice Theory to study a Recursive Scheme based on Inheritance
by
Nicolae Tandareanu
University of Craiova, Faculty of Math./Comp.Sci., A.I.Cuza 13, 1100-Craiova,Romania

Using some formalism for a knowledge system based on inheritance we obtain its answer function as a partial recursive mapping of several variables. Because it is a partial mapping, the values of the function for some arguments can not be computed. These arguments are not before known. The computation of the function values for such arguments in a computer system can be avoided if the computational properties of the function are known. In order to study these properties we build some lattice of ordered trees such that some properties are characterized by the existence of the greatest element in this lattice.

Date received: February 26, 2003