Larch Prover
Encyclopedia
Larch Prover, or LP for short, is an interactive theorem
proving system for multisorted first-order logic
. It is currently used at MIT and elsewhere to reason about designs for circuits
, concurrent algorithm
s, hardware
, and software. Unlike most theorem provers, which attempt to find proof
s automatically for correctly stated conjectures, LP is intended to assist users in finding and correcting flaws in conjectures — the predominant activity in the early stages of the design process.
LP works efficiently on large problems, has many important user amenities, and can be used by relatively naïve users. It was developed and is being maintained by Stephen J. Garland and John V. Guttag
at the MIT Laboratory for Computer Science.
Theorem
In mathematics, a theorem is a statement that has been proven on the basis of previously established statements, such as other theorems, and previously accepted statements, such as axioms...
proving system for multisorted first-order logic
First-order logic
First-order logic is a formal logical system used in mathematics, philosophy, linguistics, and computer science. It goes by many names, including: first-order predicate calculus, the lower predicate calculus, quantification theory, and predicate logic...
. It is currently used at MIT and elsewhere to reason about designs for circuits
Electrical network
An electrical network is an interconnection of electrical elements such as resistors, inductors, capacitors, transmission lines, voltage sources, current sources and switches. An electrical circuit is a special type of network, one that has a closed loop giving a return path for the current...
, concurrent algorithm
Algorithm
In mathematics and computer science, an algorithm is an effective method expressed as a finite list of well-defined instructions for calculating a function. Algorithms are used for calculation, data processing, and automated reasoning...
s, hardware
Hardware
Hardware is a general term for equipment such as keys, locks, hinges, latches, handles, wire, chains, plumbing supplies, tools, utensils, cutlery and machine parts. Household hardware is typically sold in hardware stores....
, and software. Unlike most theorem provers, which attempt to find proof
Mathematical proof
In mathematics, a proof is a convincing demonstration that some mathematical statement is necessarily true. Proofs are obtained from deductive reasoning, rather than from inductive or empirical arguments. That is, a proof must demonstrate that a statement is true in all cases, without a single...
s automatically for correctly stated conjectures, LP is intended to assist users in finding and correcting flaws in conjectures — the predominant activity in the early stages of the design process.
LP works efficiently on large problems, has many important user amenities, and can be used by relatively naïve users. It was developed and is being maintained by Stephen J. Garland and John V. Guttag
John Guttag
John V. Guttag is an American Computer Scientist, Professor and former Head of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at MIT....
at the MIT Laboratory for Computer Science.