2 replies to this topic

[mr mike]

Hello everyone:

I have a side project for my mathematical logic class. My professor is offering extra credit for a student who can make a turing machine simulator with gui interface based off the notation from our book that he can use with future classes. If it comes out good, I will probably make it opensource. I have decent knowledge of java(minus the data structures) and ruby. Currently I am learning scheme, C(ansi), and data structures(Scheme, C, Java). I am thinking about doing this in ruby and add it to tutorials but I need to use WX with it, so maybe not now. What language would be most suited for a turing machine simulator?

A. Gui interface

B. Turing Machine has only four actions and moves on an unlimited tape-
1. Write 1's
2. Replace 1's with zeros(erase)
3. Move right
4. Move left

C. Needs to add, subtract, multiply, quadruples, ...

Please support your answers so I can determine the plan for this project.
Thanks sooooo much in advance.

[WingedPanther]

The functions aren't that big a deal, but the big thing is going to be the interface. You'll have to find a way for someone to easily create the state transition rules.

I don't really think the language will matter that much, so I would use whatever you're most comfortable with. I would probably represent the tape with a doubly linked list (using left and right pointers) so you can easily add new tape as needed.

[mr mike]

Thanks for you insight. I kinda figured the programming language was just a formality. I should just do the program in machine language...lol...just kidding, Im not proficient enough yet to take on that task but one day...hopefully. I will use tip about using the pointers.
Thanks again for your insight.