The on-line firing squad simulator

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate man/machine interaction in the context of solving a conceptually difficult, formal problem. We want a problem that requires no specialized knowledge, so that a fair comparison can be made between computer-aided and unaided attempts at solution. We also want a problem that is graphic. The firing squad synchronization problem satisfies these criteria extremely well. It has the added advantage that no optimal solution has yet been produced.