On size reduction techniques for multitape automata

We present a method for size reduction of two-way multitape automata. Our algorithm applies local transformations that change the order in which transitions concerning different tapes occur in the automaton graph, and merge suitable states into a single state. Our work is motivated by implementation of a language for string manipulation in database systems where string predicates are compiled into two-way multitape automata. Additionally, we present a (one-tape) NFA reduction algorithm that is based on a method proposed for DFA minimization by Kameda and Weiner, and apply this algorithm, combined with the multitape automata reduction algorithm, on our multitape automata. Empirical results on the performance of our method when applied on some multitape automata originating from string predicates are reported. (C) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.