Fuzzy query translation for relational database systems

The paper presents a new method for fuzzy query translation based on the /spl alpha/-cuts operations of fuzzy numbers. This proposed method allows the retrieval conditions of SQL queries to be described by fuzzy terms represented by fuzzy numbers. It emphasizes friendliness and flexibility for inexperienced users. The authors have implemented a fuzzy query translator to translate user's fuzzy queries into precise queries for relational database systems. Because the proposed method allows the user to construct his fuzzy queries intuitively and to choose different retrieval threshold values for fuzzy query translation, the existing relational database systems will be more friendly and more flexible to the users.