RelateDB

Product Introduction

1. Definition: RelateDB is a browser-based Entity-Relationship Diagram (ERD) tool and database schema designer operating entirely offline via IndexedDB storage. It falls under the technical category of visual database modeling software.
2. Core Value Proposition: It eliminates cloud dependencies and account requirements by enabling offline-first schema design, allowing users to visually model database tables, relationships, and schemas with unlimited local projects while supporting SQL/DBML import/export and diagram rendering.

Main Features

1. Visual ERD Canvas:

   • How it works: Uses a node-based interface where tables appear as draggable nodes and relationships as edges. Supports multi-schema visualization within a unified workspace.
   • Technology: Built on SVG/Canvas rendering with real-time editing and ELK-based auto-layout algorithms for dynamic diagram arrangement aligned to sidebar hierarchies.

2. Offline-First Persistence:

   • How it works: Automatically saves all work to IndexedDB, a browser-native storage system. Projects persist across sessions without internet connectivity.
   • Technology: Leverages IndexedDB API for transactional data storage, enabling unlimited local schemas, tables, and workspaces without server calls.

3. SQL/DBML Import & Export:

   • How it works: Parses SQL CREATE TABLE statements or DBML code to generate visual diagrams. Exports to Postgres/MySQL-compatible SQL, DBML, or PNG/JPG/SVG images.
   • Technology: Utilizes ANTLR-based parsers for SQL/DBML conversion and headless browser rendering for image exports.

4. Multi-Schema Workspace Management:

   • How it works: Organizes projects into discrete schemas (e.g., billing, analytics) with cross-schema relationship visibility. Supports drag-and-drop reorganization.
   • Technology: Implements graph-based packing algorithms to auto-arrange schemas while maintaining relational context.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Cloud-based ERD tools require subscriptions, internet access, and impose table/diagram limits, disrupting offline productivity and data privacy.
2. Target Audience:
   • Database Architects designing complex multi-schema systems.
   • Full-Stack Developers iterating on local database prototypes.
   • Technical Educators teaching ERD concepts without cloud dependencies.
3. Use Cases:
   • Rapid Prototyping: Visually design a microservices database schema offline during flights/commutes.
   • Legacy Documentation: Import existing SQL schemas to auto-generate ERDs for audits.
   • Team Collaboration: Export PNG/SVG diagrams for PR reviews or architecture docs.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike cloud tools (e.g., Lucidchart, dbdiagram.io), RelateDB offers truly offline functionality, no account walls, and unlimited local scalability—addressing data sovereignty and cost barriers.
2. Key Innovation: ELK auto-layout + IndexedDB integration enables complex schema visualization and persistent storage without backend infrastructure—a rarity in browser-based modeling tools.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does RelateDB work without internet?
   Yes, RelateDB is fully offline-capable using IndexedDB storage to save projects locally. All features—including import, export, and diagramming—function without internet.

2. Can I import existing PostgreSQL/MySQL schemas?
   Absolutely. RelateDB supports SQL CREATE TABLE imports (Postgres/MySQL syntax) and DBML files, converting them into editable visual diagrams instantly.

3. Is there a limit to tables or schemas?
   No. RelateDB imposes no restrictions on tables, schemas, or workspaces for local projects, leveraging browser storage scalability.

4. How does RelateDB handle cross-schema relationships?
   It visualizes inter-schema relationships in a unified workspace using color-coded nodes and auto-aligned layouts, maintaining referential integrity during exports.

5. Can I collaborate with teams using RelateDB?
   While collaboration requires manual sharing (via exported SQL/DBML/PNG), its image/SVG export and standard SQL generation streamline feedback in PRs or documentation.