Abstract: A graphical user interface and method of use thereof that allows users to interact with an entity relationship model. The user interface includes zones that allow users to navigate among the entities, roles and fields to create queries that are run against the model. Clicking on an entity in the shows the available fields for the entity. Users can drag and drop entities and fields onto a design surface to quickly and easily build queries. Rules are applied when either an entity or a field is dropped onto the design surface based upon the item being dropped (either an entity or a field), the position of the drop and also the properties that are associated with the item. Entities may be grouped and filtered to sort and limit the results of the query. After query is run, the results may be displayed in a separate area to the user.

Abstract: A preferred path between two selected entities is determined. Initially, there is provided a representation of the data structure in the form of a plurality of entities having relations between them indicative of roles and the relations reflecting a cardinality of one of a one-to-one, one-to-many and a many-to-one relationship between the entities. A query is entered that provides an indication of a first selected entity and a second selected entity. A preferred path is selected through the entities and relations that couples the first selected entity to the second selected entity. The preferred path is selected from a plurality of paths as a function of the number of changes in cardinality along the plurality of paths and a indicator indicative of a preferred role relating two entities.

Abstract: A data query and reporting method and system are provided. The method and system allow non-technical computer users to build and execute complex database queries. The method and system accommodate the need for a simple, easy-to-understand interactive and iterative means for generating and validating database queries. The method and system reduce the complexity and costs associated with retrieving useful information for organizations of all sizes, especially smaller businesses. The method and system support a robust security model, enabling organizations to protect sensitive data while providing broad data access.

Abstract: A method and system for creating and following drill links in a report are disclosed. A relational abstraction of a data store is defined, the definition including a plurality of views, scalar or aggregate fields associated with the views, and relations between the views. A report is generated that includes at least one drill link associated with a sequence of one or more relations originating at a base view of the relational abstraction. Upon selecting a drill link contained in a first report, information about the drill link is extracted from the report, and the extracted information and the destination view associated with the drill link are used to create a second report.

Abstract: A method and system for displaying a relational abstraction data store are disclosed. A relational abstraction of a data store is defined, the definition including a plurality of views, scalar or aggregate fields associated with the views, and relations between the views. The fields and relations associated with views are displayed and related to a base view through a sequence of relations. The fields displayed are constrained based upon the sequence of relations from the base view. Scalar fields are displayed where the sequence of relations does not contain a to-many relation. Aggregate fields are displayed where the sequence of relations contains at least one to-many relation. Distinct aggregate fields are displayed where the relation path sequence contains a to-many relation followed by a many-to-one relation. A field may be displayed with additional information indicating how, or whether, the fields may be used. The display of fields may be constrained in predetermined ways.

Abstract: A retention pin redundancy system and installation method provides a housing having multiple shoulders to encapsulate an installed retention pin and its connecting pin only when the retention pin is fully engaged. Another aspect includes a living hinge. A further aspect provides engagement devices to lock the redundancy clip.

Abstract: A retention pin redundancy system and installation method provides a housing having multiple shoulders to encapsulate an installed retention pin and its connecting pin only when the retention pin is fully engaged. Another aspect includes a living hinge. A further aspect provides engagement devices to lock the redundancy clip.