Crossword Puzzle Generation Algorithm for High-Density Word Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crossword puzzle generation techniques have low degrees of freedom due to predetermined black cell positions, limiting the density and placement of words on a board without black cells.
Innovation Solution
A crossword puzzle generating apparatus that sets a target area for word placement, ensuring the widest free area without restrictions from existing characters, allowing for high freedom in placing character strings lengthwise and widthwise on a board of arbitrary size without black cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a predetermined face of board with black cell positions determined in advance is used, then the crossword puzzle generation follows a clear algorithm, but the degree of freedom for placing words is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing candidate areas and their corresponding next word free areas before actual word placement. This allows the system to have freedom in placement while maintaining algorithmic clarity through pre-prepared options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the board configuration flexible rather than fixed. The face of board is not predetermined with fixed black cells, but adapts dynamically based on word placement requirements, allowing the structure to change as words are placed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If words are placed one by one on a board without predetermined black cells, then the degree of freedom increases, but the number of black cells increases reducing word density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculation of candidate areas and next word free areas before placement. This advance preparation ensures that words can be placed densely while maintaining freedom, as the system knows in advance where placements will be most efficient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by considering the 'next word free area' when selecting placement positions. Each placement decision is made with feedback about how it will affect future placement options, ensuring optimal density while maintaining freedom.
3Productivity
If words are placed without considering future placement restrictions, then placement is simple and fast, but the number of black cells increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent calculates candidate areas and next word free areas in advance, before actual placement occurs. This preliminary action enables fast placement decisions to be made based on pre-analyzed information, maintaining productivity while optimizing density.
Data Source
AI summary
A target area setting unit 1 sets a target area for placement of one word made up of an arbitrary number of characters, in a face of board that does not include black cells in an initial stage. A word placing unit 2 places, in the set target area, one word made up of an arbitrary number of characters falling within an area length of the target area. The target area is set at a position that secures a widest free area capable of placement of a next word without restriction owing to an existing character in a crossing cell and restriction owing to an existing character in an adjoining cell, in a remaining area except the target area and an existing area where a word has already been placed. Therefore, a larger number of words can be placed in such a manner that words are placed one by one while leaving a room for enlarging an area where a next word is freely placeable, as much as possible.