Overview

The Query Builder application enables administrators to build reusable AML queries using a graphical user interface (GUI). The intended use of the Query Builder application is to create queries that can be used in other applications, e.g., Tree Grid Views, Graph Navigation, Access Control, etc. Query Builder can be thought of as the common mechanism that allows users to define and execute queries against Aras Innovator data and data structures to provide useful results for any application needing it.

A Query can be defined to traverse a Relationship structure downward as in a sub-assembly, or upward in a “where-used” manner depending on business requirements. In addition, results can be refined using Where Conditions to produce highly selective output. User-defined Parameters allow input of search parameters to be deferred until runtime.

Specific property values to be returned from the Query can be defined, including xProperties. Output can be sorted according to user-specified order. (For more information about xProperties and xClasses, refer to the Aras Innovator Extended Classification document.)

The Query Builder User Interface includes an Execute Query function that displays query results to a subwindow to provide a preview of Query results. This allows end users to test their query, examine the results, and refine their search as needed.

A built-in Exists() function allows users to filter items based on the existence or absence of related items. Users can also duplicate Query Definition items and use them to create a Query Definition that is similar to the original.

A common usage of Query Builder results is to be formatted and displayed in a Tree Grid View. The Tree Grid View can generate a Relationship Tab for an ItemType where end users can access the structure display easily. (For more information on the Tree Grid View, refer to the Aras Innovator 37 – Tree Grid View Administrator Guide.)

This guide walks through building the following sample query:

Figure 1.