Overview
IEC TS 62656-2:2013 is a technical specification published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that provides an application guide for standardized product ontology register and transfer by spreadsheets. This part 2 of the series focuses on the use of data parcels specified in IEC 62656-1 for defining domain data dictionaries that can be imported from and exported to the IEC Common Data Dictionary (CDD). The IEC CDD, maintained as part of IEC 61360-4, serves as a global repository of standardized electronic data for product ontologies.
The document ensures the correct interpretation and use of IEC 62656-1 data constructs within software applications, minimizing the risks of misuse and promoting consistent data dictionary development and exchange. By leveraging spreadsheet-based parceling, it enables easier creation and transfer of complex ontology elements in compliance with international standards.
Key Topics
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Data Dictionary Structure
Guidance on structuring domain-specific data dictionaries that align with the IEC CDD. It covers classification trees, composition trees, and reuse of properties, ensuring semantic consistency.
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Data Parcels in Spreadsheets
Instructions on implementing and exchanging data parcels via spreadsheets to register and transfer product ontology elements. This includes well-defined formats, cell delimiters, character encoding, and spreadsheet templates.
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Ontological Elements Definition
Methods for defining core ontological components including:
- Semantic definitions and assigning unique identifiers
- Definition classes and attribute considerations
- Enumeration types, named data types, units of measurement, and external resource information
- Relationships between ontological elements and their representation in data parcels
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Advanced Concepts
Handling complex ontology aspects such as:
- Conditions and cardinality constraints
- Blocks and lists of properties (LOPs)
- Polymorphism, including alternate IDs for flexible data modeling
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Conformance and Exchange
Guidance to ensure conformity with IEC CDD implementation and recommendations for consistent data file representations especially in CSV format.
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Supporting Annexes
Includes normative and informative annexes with examples of pattern constraints, attribute values, sample data, and parcellation tools to support implementation.
Applications
IEC TS 62656-2:2013 is essential for organizations and software developers engaged in:
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Product Ontology Management
Developing and maintaining standardized ontologies that describe product characteristics, enabling global interoperability and data sharing.
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Data Dictionary Development
Creating domain-specific dictionaries that harmonize with the IEC CDD, facilitating streamlined import/export of standard-compliant product data.
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Software Integration
Implementing software solutions to read, write, and manage ontology data parcels through spreadsheets in compliance with IEC standards.
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Manufacturing and Product Lifecycle Management
Supporting digital continuity and semantic interoperability from product design through manufacturing and maintenance by adopting harmonized data models.
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International Standardization
Aligning product data exchanges across industries and countries by applying the standardized ontology register and transfer mechanisms defined by IEC.
Related Standards
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IEC 62656-1 - Defines the technical specification for data parcels as a basis for standardized product ontology registration and transfer.
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IEC 61360 Series - Contains the International Standard on Common Data Dictionary (CDD) structure (Part 1) and its maintenance (Part 4).
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IEC 61360-4 - Provides specifications for maintaining the IEC CDD database holding the standardized electrotechnical terms and data.
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ISO/IEC 11179 - Covers metadata registries related to data element definitions, related to standardized ontology practices.
By supporting structured and standardized product ontology transfer via spreadsheets, IEC TS 62656-2:2013 delivers a practical and interoperable approach to semantic data dictionary management consistent with global IEC standards. This makes it a critical resource for stakeholders seeking to enhance product data interoperability, reduce ontological confusion, and ensure compliance with internationally recognized practices.