Database Abstraction Model for Related Entity Query Composition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current relational databases require complex SQL queries to identify instances of an entity based on conditions evaluated against related entities, which is difficult for average users due to the need to understand the database structure and query language syntax.
Innovation Solution
A database query application that allows users to compose abstract queries using a database abstraction model with logical fields and model entities, enabling conditions to be evaluated against related entities, transforming the abstract query into a physical query consistent with the underlying database representation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users compose queries using complex SQL query language, then queries can retrieve data from relational databases, but the complexity of query composition becomes difficult for average users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical query builder as an intermediary layer between the user and the SQL query language. This intermediary provides a visual interface with drag-and-drop functionality, allowing users to construct queries through graphical elements rather than writing complex SQL syntax. The graphical query builder translates user-friendly graphical selections into executable SQL queries, thereby resolving the contradiction by improving ease of operation while managing query language complexity through abstraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the database schema and query structure through graphical elements. Instead of requiring users to directly manipulate SQL text, the system provides graphical copies of tables, columns, and query structures that users can interact with visually. This copying approach allows users to work with simplified visual representations while the system handles the complex SQL translation, thus improving ease of operation without losing the capability to execute complex queries.
2Reliability
If users need to evaluate conditions against related entities, then comprehensive data retrieval is achieved, but the query composition difficulty increases due to sophisticated SQL requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex task of querying related entities into manageable graphical components. The graphical query builder allows users to separately define base queries and related entity conditions as distinct visual elements. Users can attach conditions to related entities through visual connectors or dropdown selections, breaking down the sophisticated SQL requirements into discrete, easily configurable graphical steps. This segmentation maintains reliability of data retrieval while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by automatically generating the complex SQL join logic and related entity condition syntax based on user selections in the graphical interface. When users configure queries against related entities through the graphical builder, the system pre-computes and prepares the necessary SQL structure, including join conditions and related entity filters, before final query execution. This preliminary processing of complex logic behind the scenes maintains data retrieval reliability while keeping the user interface simple and easy to operate.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide methods, systems and articles of manufacture for constructing a database abstraction model over an underlying physical database. Typically, queries of the database abstraction model are directed to queries of a model entity defined for the database abstraction model. To compose an abstract query, users select conditions evaluated using data associated with instances of the model entity. Using the database abstraction model, users may compose an abstract query according to logical or intuitive relationships among data elements stored in the underlying database. One addition to the database abstraction model is the ability to apply query criteria against related instances of a model entity. Because model entities may share a predefined relationship, embodiments of the invention allow for users to specify query criteria applied against related instances. Related instances may be identified by invoking a path function provided by the database abstraction model. A path function may be configured to return instances of the model entity that are related to an instance input to the path function.