Classification abstraction: An intrinsic element in database systems

Abstract

The Classification Abstraction is a fundamental concept sup- porting the existence of database systems. However, it has been seldom supported as a database modeling element. This paper presents a technic to support classification as a semantic constructor, enabling its represen- tation in target modeling. It is also shown that this concept can unify the commands for data definition and data manipulation in query lan- guages, thus generating tight environments including the data model, the database management system and the software design techniques. Through classification, object types and object instances can be treated in a uniform manner, allowing the unification of concepts and commands. This approach is illustrated using the SIRIUS model and its schema edi- tor. SIRIUS data model is a full featured, abstraction-based data model, including a semantic constructor based on the classification abstraction that supports the concepts presented here.