An algebraic language for graphical query formulation using an extended entity-relationship model

The Entity-Category-Relationship (ECR) model extends the Entity-Relationship (ER) model with the concepts of subclass and generalization categories. In this paper a graphical representation of the ECR model and its application as the basis for an interactive query language are discussed. The proposed query language is based on algebraic operators that can be used to transform an ECR diagram so that it represents a desired query. Semantics of the algebraic operators are formally defined. A method of implementing the graphical ECR interface for accessing relational database systems is proposed.

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