Graphical Query Builder for Heterogeneous Data Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for querying complex graphical models require in-depth knowledge of the underlying data structures and are not adaptable to heterogeneous modeling techniques, making it difficult to formulate correct and meaningful queries across different data sources.
Innovation Solution
A system with a graphical query builder that allows users to define queries using data source-independent building blocks, coupled with adapters that translate these queries into specific formats for various data sources, enabling querying of heterogeneous models without requiring knowledge of the data source structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional scripting languages or SQL interfaces are used for querying models, then query functionality is achieved, but user complexity and knowledge requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical query builder as an intermediary layer between the user and the underlying data sources. This visual interface allows users to construct queries by selecting and connecting graphical elements representing data sources, queries, and parameters, without needing to know the complex scripting languages or SQL interfaces of the underlying systems. The graphical query builder translates these visual queries into executable formats, effectively mediating between user-friendly interaction and system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If data source specific query formats are used, then compatibility with individual data sources is achieved, but adaptability to heterogeneous modeling techniques is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal graphical query builder that can interact with multiple heterogeneous data sources through a common interface. The system defines standardized graphical elements for data sources, queries, and parameters that work across different modeling techniques and data source types. This universal approach allows the same graphical query construction methods to be applied regardless of the underlying data source, achieving both adaptability to diverse systems and reliability through consistent query formulation.
3Ease of operation
If graphical query builders are implemented, then ease of use improves, but the ability to handle complex relationships across multiple models deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where graphical queries can contain sub-queries, and parameters can reference other queries. This nesting capability allows complex relationships across multiple models to be built by combining simpler query components. Users can create hierarchical query structures where outer queries reference inner queries, enabling the expression of complex cross-model relationships through composition of manageable graphical elements rather than requiring monolithic complex queries.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain example embodiments relate to techniques for creating queries on model data of at least one data source (DS1, . . . , DS3) in accordance with at least one data source specific format. A graphical query builder (QB) is configured to enable a user to graphically define a query including multiple building blocks in accordance with a data source independent format (MM). At least one adapter (A1, . . . , A3) for the at least one data source (DS1, . . . , DS3) is configured to translate the query in the data source independent format (MM) into at least one corresponding query in the data source specific format.