RDF framework
The RNA-project makes use of RDF (Resource Description Framework) and OWL (Web Ontology Language) to describe metadata and reference structures. RDF describes information in subject-predicate-property triples.
For example: Vase_19354 --> time_period --> 1600-1700
RDF is part of the infrastructure of the RNA project. Advantages of RDF (and OWL) are:
- expandibility (add new descriptions without the need to change schemes)
- connectivity (facilities to connect and relate information - i.e. it is possible to seamlessly link thesauri and object descriptions).
In all cases, we use a RDF database framework called Sesame for storage and retrieval of metadata and reference structures. Sesame is open source software (BSD license) and is supported by an active community.
The RDF framework is a storage location that is equipped with a knowledge-sharing mechanism that is able to process RDF queries; complex composite search queries that exactly match the RDF format. RDF structures in this storage system that can be accessed in a uniform way. That is the role of the RDF framework.
Topics we work on in this product group:
- Sesame - distributed model
- Search in RDF
- Authorisation
Friday, April 13, 2007