A model for schema evolution in temporal relational databases

In temporal databases, transaction time and valid time are added to the data. In this context, the modification of the schema which a database management system (DBMS) can undergo during its lifetime, known as schema changes, must develop into the higher concept of scheme evolution. Changes to the schema produce versions of previous schemas along both time axes and these versions must be maintained and managed during the whole database life. An overview on the issues of temporal relational databases and relational schema changes is presented. A basic outline for the integration of these two aspects into a temporal relational database model supporting schema evolution is given.<>