Integrate object-oriented data data storage device integrated environment a non-object-oriented data mechanism and object-oriented database

摘要

A method and apparatus for accessing and effectively integrating non-object oriented data stores with object applications. An integrating environment is implemented wherein an application using a distributed object database and object database management system (ODBMS) is provided with an interface to external data stores in a manner so as to effect location transparency. The application, accessing data via the ODBMS, can manipulate data in foreign data stores which include external data that is mapped and converted into objects for use by object applications. A storage management application program interface ("SM API"), effects a functional interface for handling objects, referencing objects, implementing iteration and indexing of objects, and implementing object transaction and cache handling. The SM API is part of a modular architecture that includes an external storage manager which implements classes that provide the foundation for engaging external data stores, and which maps and converts external data into objects that can be manipulated by an application using the ODBMS.