Document Retrieval from a Relational Database Management System: An Investigation of Multiple-Line Query Formulation Using Sequel

摘要

The design and implementation of a working document retrieval system based on a commercial relational database management system is reviewed. Free-text retrieval is supported from a database of energy-related patent documents. Multiple line query formulation of the type generally found in special-purpose document retrieval software has been provided. This is done through the use of macros which provide a parametric user-interface to the database enabling search intermediaries such as librarians and document retrieval specialists to interrogate the database in a manner similar to the way in which they interrogate special purpose document retrieval systems. The macros translate parametric queries into SEQUEL commands suitable for processing by the database management system.