A graphical query language supporting flexible database access

Abstract

GRAF-ASQ (GRaphical And Fully Accessible Structure-based Queries) is a graphical query language designed to provide flexible, wide access to data via the use of n-tuples and Prolog concepts. It is also designed to provide the ability to view the database schema graphically and to store queries which can be retrieved and from which more complex queries can be built. The system is built to interface with MacDRAW so that it can store and retrieve information connected to graphical objects. The system is independent of MacDRAW, however. It accepts data in a general format that other programs can give it. Implemented so far is the ability to view the schema with different central foci and to make atomic attributes invisible. Also implemented is the ability to get data about graphical objects from MacDRAW, including type and simple attribute information, and to query and search for data via menues. If the data found relates to MacDRAW objects, those objects can be highlighted within MacDRAW. The graphical query language itself has not been implemented.