Ontology-Based Semantic Models for Databases

A key characteristic of database systems is the layered structure and the accomplished independencies as is defined in the ANSI SPARC database reference model. This level-wise approach is also applied in the database development processes. According to the design triangle, the problem area to be mapped into the database is described by a human-oriented description at the initial phase of the design activity. Semantic data model (SDM) as a design tool uses concept-level elements in contrast to database schemas that are models at the logical and physical levels. The main role of semantic models is that they provide an abstract approach; they are easy to understand and they provide database independence.