Download Introduction to Constraint Databases

Introduction to Constraint Databases
Peter Revesz
Constraint databases provide extra expressive power over relational databases in a largely
hidden way. They keep the view of the database for a user or application programmer
almost as simple as in relational databases. At the data-storage or physical level
constraints, such as linear or polynomial equations, are used to represent infinite sets in a
compact manner.
Introduction to Constraint Databases comprehensively covers both constraint-database
theory and several sample systems. The book reveals how constraint databases bring
together techniques from a variety of fields, such as logic and model theory, algebraic
and computational geometry, and symbolic computation, to the design and analysis of
data models and query languages. Constraint databases are shown to be powerful and
simple tools for data modeling and querying in application areas -- such as environmental
modeling, bioinformatics, and computer vision -- that are not suitable for relational
databases. Specific applications are examined in geographic information systems,
spatiotemporal data management, linear programming, genome databases, model
checking of automata, and other areas.
Topics and features:
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Offers a database perspective and a focus on simplicity at the user level
Utilizes simple tools for determining whether queries are safe or not
Incorporates scientist-supplied descriptions of applications
Explains constraint databases from a developer's viewpoint
Provides extensive exorcise sets, and sample software systems, that facilitate
rapid learning of the topic within a real-word software context
This new text/reference presents a comprehensive introduction to the theory and
applications of constraint database systems, which provide new methods for the design of
data models and query languages. It is an essential resource for advanced students,
practitioners, and professionals in computer science, database systems, and information
system.