Semantic Heterogeneity in Database and Data Dictionary Integration for Command and Control Systems
Marion G. Ceruti, Magdi N. Kamel · 1994
Abstract : Semantic heterogeneity has been investigated in connection with the database and data dictionary integration efforts that support Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence (C3I) systems. Based on this investigation, a systematic approach to the resolution of semantic heterogeneity has been developed and illustrated with examples derived from the component C3I system databases in a federation. A methodology is introduced for resolving semantic conflicts to construct a tightly coupled federated database system by facilitating the development of a global schema derived from the individual schemas of the component databases. This methodology of resolving semantic conflicts results in the formation and modification of synonym-homonym groups (SHG), a concept introduced and developed in the paper. A detailed analysis using a three-phased procedure is introduced, with each phase exploring semantic heterogeneity at progressively finer levels of information granularity For the purpose of illustration, the simplest case of a two-component database integration into a tightly coupled federated database system is considered, but the methodology can be generalized to include three or more component databases in a federated system. It also can be applied in the case of a fully merged database integration involving any number of component databases. A variety of inconsistencies were identified using the heuristics implemented in the algorithm. Resolutions of the problems arising from semantic heterogeneity are suggested, and directions for future research are explored.