in reply to Re^2: x objects in y containers where all objects are used
in thread x objects in y containers where all objects are used

The OP problem is easier if you think of it as assigning bins to items, and not as assigning items to bins. Each item MUST have one and only one bin. If you switch your thinking to assign on value in set Y to each of the items in X, then it becomes a much more clear problem.

Each item in X can be assigned exactly one of the values in Y. It is now the same class of a problem as counting in binary.

--MidLifeXis

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Re^4: x objects in y containers where all objects are used
by ack (Deacon) on Nov 06, 2009 at 19:55 UTC

    Thanks. Now I get it. As sometimes bites me, it is always constructive to step back and see if there are other ways to look at a problem. Your advice is right on...it *is* much easier to visualize the OP's challenge from the perspective you suggest.

    ack Albuquerque, NM