IMPRECISE INPUTS FOR SUPPORTING UNPLANNED DATABASE QUERIES ON MOBILE PHONES

Abstract

Providing a database query formulation system for small mobile devices with a large range of queries as found in conventional devices is a challenge. Due to the small size and limited resources of these devices, currently, most reported query systems are only offering a small set of pre-determined queries for users to possibly pose. This approach not only limits the usage of such systems, it also hinders them from being used for querying other databases. Thus, we believe that a database query formulation system for these devices should allow for unplanned (ad hoc) queries. This can be achieved by accepting imprecise inputs as terms for queries. This paper proposes a method that can be implemented by any database query formulation system for mobile devices, in particular, mobile phones, in order for them to have the capability as mentioned above. Results produced from conducting a functionality test on a prototype developed based on the method are also presented.