Integrating diverse CIM databases: the role of natural language interface

The problems of heterogeneous, distinct computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) databases and alternative methods to approach these problems are discussed. The literature in three related areas-natural language (NL) interface for database access, database integration, and CIM data requirements-is reviewed. The architecture of the total system is presented. The detailed design of the NL user interface, which is composed of the DCG (definite clause grammar) parser, the semantic interpreter and the query generator, is described. An experimental prototype of the NL user interface and a demonstration of how the system handles a global NL query are presented. Future issues in the integration of CIM databases are discussed