An Object-Oriented Approach for Temporal Data

Abstract

There is a growing need for easier access to temporal data. Recent developments of object-oriented data models represent the most promising approach to modeling complex aspects of the real world. Here, we present an object-oriented data model for supporting the storage and access of temporal information. The model consists of two parts. In the first part, we present the definition of a class for time object. The class is general enough so that it can be applied for various applications. Another part of the data model integrates time objects with entity objects and their attributes by following the pervasive three-dimensional metaphor of time. Particularly, the model incorporates with object-oriented technique all the three primary dimensions, which are time, entity, and attribute, of the metaphor.