Reliable and efficient computation of modal interval arithmetic operations

Abstract

A computer executable method of performing a modal interval operation, and system for performing same is provided. The method includes providing representations of first and second modal interval operands. Each modal interval operand of the operands is delimited by first and second marks of a digital scale, each mark of the marks comprises a bit-pattern. Each bit-pattern of the bit-patterns of the marks of each of the modal interval operands are examined, and conditions of a set of status flags corresponding to each bit-pattern of the bit-patterns of the marks are set. A bit-mask is computed wherein the mask is based upon the set condition of the status flag sets and a presence/absence of an exceptional arithmetic condition, and a presence/absence of an indefinite operand are each represented by a bit of said bits of said bit mask.

1 - 47 . (canceled) 
     
     
         48 . A method of performing a modal interval operation comprising:
 a. providing representations of first and second modal interval operands such that each modal interval operand of the modal interval operands is delimited by first and second marks of a digital scale, each mark of the marks comprising a bit-pattern;   b. constructing a bit-mask based upon each bit-pattern of the marks of the first and second marks, a presence or absence of an exceptional arithmetic condition and a presence or absence of an indefinite operand, or division by zero, each represented by a bit of bits of said bit mask; and,   c. ascertaining said exceptional arithmetic condition in advance of ascertaining said presence or absence of an indefinite operand or division by zero, and subsequently, separately and selectively treating said exceptional arithmetic condition.