MINERVA could be called JavaProlog.
MINERVA provides the functionality of Prolog as a Java Class and can itself access Java Objects. MINERVA itself is implemented in Java.
Prolog is the most prominent logic programming languages, standardized by ISO/IEC 13211-1 in recognition of its maturity and spreading commmercial use. Prolog is acknowledged for its expressiveness and software engineering aspects. An area of outstanding success for Prolog is in the processing of engineering and other artificial languages from commercial codes to DNA sequences.
Java is an object oriented language designed to be platform language for programs to be executed over the internet or other networks.
MINERVA combines both worlds and brings the expressiveness and programmer productivity of logic programming in the most deployable and distributable technology available today.
The tight integration of MINERVA into Java allows to use programs and data hosted on one or more servers and execute them on virtually any Java-enabled internet browser including e.g. Netscape and Internet Explorer.
IF Computer expects that MINERVA programs will therefore be executable not only on office and home computers, but also on consumer devices like personal digital assistants, video game machines, and internet enabled TV sets.