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ERD To Data Model Transformation
The purpose of the Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD) to Data Model transformation is to create a data model from the ERD logical model, generating a model targeted at the default database type ready for DDL generation. Before doing the transformation, make sure you have defined the common data type for each attribute and selected a database type as the default database. The data modeling diagram can then be automatically generated. This data model can be used for generating DDL statements to run in one of the Enterprise Architect supported database products.
The transformation uses and demonstrates support in the intermediary language for the following database-specific concepts:
Reference
Concept |
Definition |
See also |
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Table |
Mapped one-to-one onto Class elements.
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Column |
Mapped one-to-one onto attributes.
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Primary Key |
Lists all the columns involved; this ensures that they exist in the Class and creates a primary key method for them.
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Foreign Key |
This is a special sort of connector. The Source and Target sections list all of the columns involved; this ensures that they exist and that a matching primary key exists in the destination Class, and that the transformation creates the appropriate foreign key.
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Generalization
Generalization can be handled in ERD technology, as illustrated by the following example. Note that the copy-down inheritance is currently supported with two levels only.
Example
This transforms to:
Notes
• | Sometimes you might go back to the ERD, make some changes and then want to do another transformation. To achieve better results, always delete the previous transformation package before doing the next transformation |
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