Overview
ISO 25297-2:2011 - part of the ISO 25297 series on optics and photonics - electronic exchange of optical data - defines how the terms used in the NODIF information model (ISO 25297-1) are mapped to the classes and properties in the ISO/TC 172 reference dictionary (ISO 23584‑2). Its purpose is to facilitate interoperability between NODIF-based optical data and the ISO 23584 reference dictionary, enabling consistent electronic exchange of optical data across tools and organizations.
Key topics
- Scope and purpose
- Specifies relationships between NODIF terms and ISO 23584 properties and classes.
- Provides mapping tables (Table 1 and Table 2) and a class hierarchy (Annex A) for reference.
- Notes that not all attributes of ISO 23584-2 properties are redefined in this part.
- Mapping conventions
- Uses NODIF application object and attribute names as preferred names in the reference dictionary.
- Explains naming conventions (e.g., underscores in NODIF terms are omitted in the reference dictionary).
- Indicates that reference dictionary ID numbers will be populated when registered in the ISO/TC 172 database.
- Deliverables in the document
- Class mapping table (NODIF keywords → reference dictionary classes).
- Property mapping table (NODIF keywords → reference dictionary properties, data types and units where specified).
- Informative class hierarchy annex to aid implementation.
- Normative references
Applications
ISO 25297-2 is practical for anyone needing standardized, machine-readable exchange of optical design and specification data:
- Optical engineers and designers integrating NODIF outputs with a shared reference dictionary.
- Software developers of CAD/optical-design, PLM and data-exchange tools who implement mapping between NODIF and ISO 23584-compliant representations.
- Manufacturers and suppliers exchanging optical specifications, tolerances, coatings, material data and evaluation results.
- Quality assurance and metrology labs that rely on standardized property names and units for test results and reports.
- Standards committees and data modelers harmonizing terminology across optics and photonics ecosystems.
Related standards
- ISO 25297-1:2010 - NODIF information model (defines the application objects and attributes referenced here)
- ISO 23584-1 - Reference dictionary organization and structure
- ISO 13584-42 - Methodology for structuring parts families
Using ISO 25297-2 improves interoperability, reduces ambiguity in optical data exchange, and supports consistent integration of optical information into engineering workflows and PLM systems. Keywords: ISO 25297-2, electronic exchange of optical data, NODIF, ISO 23584, optics and photonics, reference dictionary, mapping.