Axiomatization of Dynamic Schema Evolution in Objectbases

The schema of a system consists of the constructs that model its entities. Schema evolution is the timely change and management of the schema. Dynamic schema evolution is the management of schema changes while the system is in operation. We propose a sound and complete axiomatic model for dynamic schema evolution in objectbase management systems (OBMSs) that support subtyping and property inheritance. The model is formal, which distinguishes it from the traditional approach of informally defining a number of invariants and rules to enforce them. By reducing systems to the axiomatic model, their functionality with respect to dynamic schema evolution can be compared within a common framework.