A knowledge-based approach to relational database design

摘要

An approach for creating automated tools for database design is outlined. proex, a knowledge-based system for the conceptual and logical design stages, is presented. The system has its main goal the provision of an interactive methodological environment for relational database design. It employs a semantic data model. proex accepts a description (possibly incomplete) of the modelled slice of reality (universe of discourse), constructs a conceptual schema and then attempts to produce some form of computer processible relational database schema. The embedded design methodology and the overall architecture of the system are discussed.