OLAP Query Generation via Relational Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing OLAP systems face challenges in applying relational constructs in a way that produces consistent results regardless of the data storage method, leading to potential discrepancies in query outcomes depending on whether data is stored relationally or in an OLAP system.
Innovation Solution
A method is developed to generate OLAP queries from report specifications that include relational constructs, by determining a mapping from a relational model to a dimensional model and applying operations in a specific order to preserve the semantics of the report specification, allowing for consistent results across different data storage methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If relational constructs are applied directly to OLAP systems without mapping, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inconsistent query results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mapping layer that translates relational constructs into OLAP-compatible operations. The mapping determines a specific order to apply constructs (e.g., filters before aggregations) and converts relational queries into equivalent OLAP queries, ensuring consistent results while maintaining ease of use. This intermediary layer acts as a mediator between the relational and OLAP paradigms.
2Productivity
If data is stored in OLAP systems instead of relational databases, then productivity is improved through faster analytical queries, but reliability deteriorates due to semantic discrepancies in query outcomes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters of query execution by determining a specific application order for relational constructs that is optimized for OLAP systems. By adjusting how and when filters, aggregations, and other constructs are applied, the system maintains semantic consistency with relational databases while leveraging OLAP's performance advantages for analytical queries.
3Measurement precision
If relational constructs are converted to OLAP queries with determined mapping and order, then measurement precision is improved through consistent results, but device complexity increases due to the mapping process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the mapping from relational constructs to OLAP operations and establishing a fixed application order before query execution. This upfront preparation creates a reusable framework that, while adding initial complexity, simplifies the actual query execution process and ensures consistent results without requiring complex runtime decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed for generating a dimensional query that includes dimensional and relational constructs. A report specification for retrieving data from a dimensional data model is received. The report specification includes the dimensional and relational constructs. The dimensional query is generated from the report specification, based on a predetermined sequence of applying the dimensional and relational constructs.