Problem-solving is a multi-faceted endeavor that takes various forms across different disciplines. In the context of computer science, it manifests as the application of artificial intelligence (AI) methods. These methods include the creation of efficient algorithms, the implementation of heuristics, and conducting root cause analysis to identify effective solutions.

Oh yeah. AI is a problem-solver. Not the opposite. Don’t believe it?

Let’s have a call!

Common AI Challenges

Developers globally harness AI to streamline processes and use time and resources effectively. AI routinely tackles challenges that range from mathematical and logical puzzles to well-known games like Sudoku and Chess. Among the typical problems AI has managed to solve are:

• Chess

• N-Queen problem

• Tower of Hanoi Problem

• Travelling Salesman Problem

• Water-Jug Problem

Understanding Reflex Agents in AI

Artificial Intelligence utilizes various agents to facilitate problem-solving:

• Simple Reflex Agents

• Model-Based Reflex Agents

• Goal-Based Agents

• Utility-Based Agents

• Learning Agents

While these agents are helpful for state-action mapping, they sometimes struggle with complex issues. That’s where specialized problem-solving agents step in, applying techniques such as B-trees and heuristic algorithms.

Read more: What Is The Role Of Planning In AI?

Key Problem-Solving Techniques in AI

Heuristics

The heuristic method helps decipher a problem and establishes a solution through experimentation and trial and error. Although not always the most optimal, heuristics offer quick, efficient solutions. Developers often use them in conjunction with optimization algorithms for better efficiency.

Example: Travelling Salesman Problem

One classic application of heuristics is in solving the Travelling Salesman Problem, where the aim is to find the most efficient route for a salesman who must return to the starting city after visiting all listed cities.

Searching Algorithms

Searching algorithms are fundamental in AI problem-solving. They are mostly goal-oriented and utilize properties like completeness, optimality, time complexity, and space complexity to gauge the quality of solutions.

Types of Searching Algorithms

• Informed Search: Uses domain knowledge for efficient solutions.

  • Greedy Search

  • A* Search

• Uninformed Search: Lacks domain-specific insights but still navigates through problems.

  • Breadth-First Search

  • Depth First Search

  • Uniform Cost Search

Evolutionary Computation

This method draws from the concept of evolution, wherein the fittest organisms survive and pass on their traits. In AI, this manifests as a trial and error mechanism, refining solutions over time.

Genetic Algorithms

Here, biological evolution serves as an inspiration. Genetic algorithms mix the best traits from a given population to create more fitting solutions.

Real-world Applications of AI: A Focus on Healthcare

AI’s capacity to sift through extensive data rapidly is particularly useful in healthcare. For example, a recent collaboration between the Barrow Neurological Institute and IBM Watson Health led to a significant breakthrough in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) research. Another promising application lies in AI’s capability to predict drug treatment efficacy, saving both time and money.

Read more: Add AI Email to Boost Productivity

Reimagining the Education Landscape with AI

At Georgia Tech University in the United States, students discovered that their teaching assistant was not human, but an AI-driven bot. After resolving initial challenges, the bot managed to answer students’ queries with an astounding 97% accuracy rate. Research at the institution highlighted that insufficient support is a significant factor contributing to student attrition. Artificial intelligence is poised to revolutionize the way we educate by providing personalized learning experiences. While it’s unrealistic to allocate a human tutor for every learner, AI-driven tutors can efficiently fill this void.

Revolutionizing Wildlife Conservation

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in wildlife conservation, particularly in the analysis of extensive data sets. By tracking animal movements, AI technology aids in identifying the most suitable regions for creating wildlife corridors in Montana, benefitting wolverines and grizzly bears. These corridors are crucial for the safe passage of animals, connecting ecologically important areas.

Redefining Transportation with Self-Driving Cars

Recent studies indicate that self-driving cars have the potential to significantly reduce fatalities and injuries caused by road accidents. According to research from a reputable private university, autonomous vehicles could also reshape our lifestyles, influencing where people choose to live and how they spend their time, thanks to the added convenience and decreased cognitive load.

Problem-Solving in the Realm of AI

Effective problem-solving in AI involves a sequence of well-defined steps. Initially, the AI agent sets a specific goal, requiring a careful examination and clarification of the problem at hand. A description of the problem then follows, which necessitates specifying the initial state, collecting necessary data, and planning the subsequent actions.

Read more: Narrow AI: Strengths, Weaknesses, And Best Practices

Factors in Problem Formulation

One of the pivotal stages in AI problem-solving is problem formulation, which outlines the strategies to achieve the set goals. Complexity arises when there are multiple pathways to attain the objectives, leading to inefficiencies. Thus, problem formulation involves several layers, such as defining the initial condition and potential actions, as well as establishing transition rules.

Artificial Agents in Problem-Solving

Problem-solving agents dissect the issue into smaller, manageable parts. The outcomes from each segment are integrated to form the final solution, demanding meticulous planning and strategic implementation. A performance comparison follows, where the agent’s results are matched against the intended goal. Costs associated with various paths are then evaluated to determine the most efficient approach.

Performance Metrics in AI

Several metrics are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of problem-solving algorithms in AI. These include:

• Completeness: Assesses the algorithm’s ability to find a solution, if one exists.

• Optimality: Evaluates the efficiency of the algorithm in finding the best solution.

• Time Complexity: Measures the time taken by the algorithm to arrive at a solution.

• Space Complexity: Quantifies the memory required for the algorithm’s operation.

Methods and Applications

Various techniques, such as trees, heuristics, and b-trees, are employed depending on the problem type. AI problem-solving is increasingly being integrated into everyday applications, from gaming to software development, offering more efficient solutions to complex challenges.

In summary, artificial intelligence is significantly influencing multiple sectors, from education and wildlife conservation to transportation and problem-solving mechanisms. While AI technology continues to evolve, its role in providing innovative solutions to real-world challenges cannot be overstated.

Image credits: Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay