System R

TLDR

System R is a relational database management system that offers a high‑level interface, strong data independence, relational views, and comprehensive data‑control features such as authorization, integrity assertions, and recovery. The paper describes System R’s overall architecture and design, positioning it as a research platform rather than a commercial product. System R is currently under implementation, with its design being evaluated during development.

Abstract

System R is a database management system which provides a high level relational data interface. The systems provides a high level of data independence by isolating the end user as much as possible from underlying storage structures. The system permits definition of a variety of relational views on common underlying data. Data control features are provided, including authorization, integrity assertions, triggered transactions, a logging and recovery subsystem, and facilities for maintaining data consistency in a shared-update environment. This paper contains a description of the overall architecture and design of the system. At the present time the system is being implemented and the design evaluated. We emphasize that System R is a vehicle for research in database architecture, and is not planned as a product.