An N-dimensional data structure in support of electronic data interchange (EDI) translation

ABSTRACT

A method is described by which data in a database system are named using sets. The sets exist in an n-dimensional data space in which each axis represents a homogeneous set and all axes (sets) are orthogonal. Data are represented as mathematical functions of relationships between the sets. Data are named using an ordered combination of the names of the sets. An executable language is used to describe relationships between the sets and to query the database. This methodology lends itself quite conveniently to APL and currently forms the foundation for a robust commercial application performing electronic data interchange (EDI) translation.

REFERENCES

• 1: Sakti P. Ghosh, Data base organization for data management (2nd ed.), Academic Press Professional, Inc., San Diego, CA, 1986
• 2: S. Bing Yao, Principles of Database Design: Logical Organizations, Prentice Hall PTR, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 1985
• 3: C. J. Date, An introduction to database systems: vol. I (4th ed.), Addison-Wesley Longman Publishing Co., Inc., Boston, MA, 1986

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  D. Software
  D.3 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
      D.3.2 Language Classifications

          Nouns: APL

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.1 Logical Design
          Subjects: Data models
      H.2.4 Systems

General Terms:
Design, Languages