Domain Ontology Representation Model Based on Graph Databases

Abstract

The article presents an approach to modeling domain ontologies based on graph databases. Ontology is traditionally considered as a means of studying and formalizing the subject area. Based on ontologies, knowledge bases of information systems are formed, which can later be replenished and used to study certain applied aspects of the subject area. At the same time, with the development of NoSQL technologies and graph databases aimed at optimizing work with related data, it becomes possible to design a data warehouse without a strict pre-established domain model. Due to the obvious graph nature of ontologies, graph databases are a promising solution for storing and working with ontologies. However, with all the similarities, the ontology and data models used in graph DBMSs are not so easy to combine. The paper proposes an approach to the integration of ontological and graph models of knowledge representation and considers its application in creating a database for a prototype of a web ontology editor. Visual tools for editing ontologies are described, an algorithm for layer-by-layer rendering of a directed graph is given, a mechanism for generating dynamic forms for editing classes and ontology instances is described, and basic support for ontological design patterns is implemented.