In this paper different types of data structures for database modeling are reviewed in order to suggest the one which most suits the needs of a database management system dedicated to the study of the mechanical systems. Topology is proposed as the classification criterion, this inspiration being due to the separation of the concepts of structure and function, as proposed for the first time by Freudenstein and Maki [Environ. Planning B 6 (1979) 375-39l]. An example of d local database is herein presented and, finally, the adopted codes are briefly commented upon which, on the base of the evaluation of the power of the adjacency matrices, identify the kinematic chains (KCs) and mechanisms.
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