reprover

A reprover is a software component used in automated theorem proving and formal verification to reproduce, reconstruct, or re-check a proof that was produced by another prover. The goal of a reprover is to provide independent verification of a proof certificate, increasing trust in the result by reanimating the proof steps within a separate checking environment or formal framework.

In typical use, a primary solver (such as a SAT or SMT solver) emits a compact proof certificate or a sequence of inference steps. A reprover reads this certificate and replays or expands the steps to generate a fully explicit, verifiable derivation. This often involves translating the certificate into a form compatible with a proof checker or a proof assistant, and may result in a detailed proof view or a certificate that can be independently checked for correctness.

Reprovers are commonly used in domains where formal verification and reliability are critical, such as SAT/SMT solving, formal methods, and proof-carrying code. They complement general proof assistants and proof checkers by providing an additional layer of verification, sometimes enabling cross-checking across different systems or representations.

Implementation characteristics of reprovers vary, but typical components include a translator from the solver’s certificate to the target verification format, a replayer that reconstructs the proof steps, and a verifier that confirms the correctness of each inference. Limitations include reliance on the quality and compatibility of the original certificate and potential performance overhead.

See also: proof checker, proof assistant, certificate-based verification, DRAT, UNSAT proof reconstruction.