I'm working on a database and hope someone could help me with a direction to head. I don't have all of the details worked out yet but the database is exactly like an autoparts selection database. I'm using VB.NET and SQL.

Here's what I want to do:
Make: Model: Engine: Part:
 Chevy
      Corvette
              425
                       Headlight
              350
                       Headlight
      Camaro
      S-10
 Ford
 Dodge

Looking at my example there are selections based on a previous answer and if you were to select Ford for example you wouldn't see Camaro, etc but you would get the Ford cars. I need to ultimately drill to a SKU type number for the last items in the "Trail". Every car has a headlight but Mustang headlights are different from Corvette.

Does anyone have a clue to this? I'm looking for how to structure the tables. I think I can figure out the VB selection tree once I get the tables setup. I also want to maintain 3rd normal as much as possible. I know it has to be a common thing.

Thanks,
Phil

It`s really a very common thing!!!

Try using multiple keys on your tables...

(e.g. Brand:Corvette Model:425 is a unique key... different from Corvette 300. )

So when you`ll search for e.g.

SELECT * FROM table1 WHERE BRAND=FORD
you`ll not get as a result the Camaru model!

I hope that I can understand your problem... If so I think that you `ll find the solution very easy! :)