Using Conceptual Graph Theory to Support Schema Integration

Two major problems in schema integration are to identify correspondences between different conceptual schemas and to verify that the proposed correspondences are consistent with the semantics of the schemas. This problem can only be effectively addressed if the conceptual schema is expressed in a semantically rich modelling formalism. We introduce such a modelling formalism, the distinguishing feature of which is the use of case grammar. We show that it is easier to identify correspondences between schemas expressed in this formalism than in schemas formulated in traditional modelling languages. The main reason for this is that case grammar standardizes the terminology in conceptual schemas by providing a set of meaningful and established labels for conceptual relations.