Knowledge-based configuration of computer systems using hierarchical partial choice

A novel inference scheme is introduced which is called hierarchical partial choice and which efficiently generates configurations from a knowledge base of structural descriptions of computer components. This approach combines the acquisition and maintenance advantages (over rule-based systems) of a declarative system with an inference scheme that efficiently generates solutions, often with little backtracking. The inference scheme is presented in the context of XKEWB, a shell for building computer configuration expert systems. The system contains several improvements over its predecessor Cossack