Relational database as an ontology framework

Abstract

In this paper we discuss application of relational data model and attributive logic as an alternative for knowledge modelling tools which are based on descriptive logic. Our experiences indicate that the most effective solution, capable of direct cooperation with majority of industrial information systems, which simultaneously provides decidability, is a combination of relational model with inference system, which utilizes attributive logic. Such solution, named Inference with Queries (IwQ) is realized in accordance with principles of Variable Set Attributive Logic (VSAL). The use of IwQ method for formulation of knowledge requires creation of data metamodel as well as increase in flexibility of inference engine by introduction of so called variable formula mechanism. Such framework is very useful, in the sense that: (i) direct access to information sources stored in relational databases is possible, (ii) well-known and reliable SQL language can be utilized, (iii) introduction of explicit knowledge structure and inference engine control is possible. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.