Re: Looking for how to model 3D objects in 2D relational databases

Doug C wrote:
> Hi - I am looking for sources of any kind that have to do with
> modelling objects, specifically organic molecules and are 3D, in a 2D
> relational database. Can anyone suggest anything?

The first thing you need to observe is that relational databases are not 2D. A dimension is a measure independent of any other dimensions. The columns of a relational table are independente; they are dimensions.

You could have a table with three columns: x, y, and z. The rows model points in space. Notice how you now have 3D data in the table. Notice also that you could add 11 other columns and have 14 dimensional data.

If you just want to model points in space with various attributes, it's easy to extend the above technique. If you want to also model edges, faces, colors, various rendering parameters, etc. then you need to first figure out what you want to model, and then design the tables for it. You'd likely have a table for each of edges, faces, etc. Parameters of each go in the same table as columns.

HTH Marshall Received on Sun Oct 09 2005 - 18:01:56 CEST