SQL query generator utilizing matrix structures
US6578028B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 14, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 14, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S707/99944
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A graphical SQL query generator and query operators are disclosed. The query tool embeds matrix objects that are used for building and transforming SQL based queries, views, data cubes and other relations including “virtual” or calculated relations. The matrix objects trace the structure of a relation to its source data and thereby make the structure of complex multilayered database queries transparent to the end-user. The methods are especially useful in data warehousing where the buildup of fact tables in star or other schemas needs to be transparent to the user. Thus, a system is disclosed that is able to quickly reveal how data warehousing schemas and relations in SQL and similar relational type databases evolve from source data and each other into more complicated structures. It supports the creation and maintenance of complex database structures such as scientific studies and other decision support structures as well as simplifying ad-hoc querying of SQL databases. The methods disclosed are used to implement a more transparent and yet powerful relational algebra on top of the standard SQL relational algebra used in most SQL databases.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.