International Computers Limited

Vincent D West

Edward Babb

An electronic spreadsheet consists of an array of cells into which a user can enter formulas and values. The contents of the spreadsheet cells are translated into a query in a high-level logic language such as the Pure Logic Language (PLL). The query is then re-written according to the rules of the logic language, to produce an answer. The answer is then translated back into formulas and values which can be displayed on the spreadsheet. The system provides a number of facilities not available on conventional electronic spreadsheets: it provides the ability to give generalised answers containing formulas rather than simply numbers, and provides the ability to solve goal-seeking problems, working backwards from a desired result.

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Reading, United Kingdom

Vincent D West