On a language for discrete dynamic programming and a microcomputer implementation

This paper presents a new modeling language (DDPL) for dynamic programming in addition to MOR/DP its microcomputer environment. DDPL is a programming language specifically tailored to the needs of dynamic programming; it is based upon a general and flexible recursion equation and supports common mathematical constructs such as arrays, sequences and functions. Programming statements such as IF/THEN/ELSE, REPEAT/UNTIL, WHILE, DOCASES and PRINT are also provided. The system addresses the broad class of problems having a finite number of stages, with each stage having a single state and decision variable. This class includes most common structures such as: shortest path problems, knapsack problems, a variety of nonserial problems, and Markov decision problems. Several examples are provided to illustrate the syntax and capabilities of MOR/DP. The environment consists of a text editor with pulldown menus and provides an on-line help facility.