Standard data element types with associated classification scheme - Part 1: Definitions - Principles and methods

This part of IEC 61360 specifies principles for the definition of the properties and associated
attributes and explains the methods for representing verbally defined concepts with
appropriate data constructs available from IEC 61360-2. It also specifies principles for
establishing a hierarchy of classification from a collection of classes, each of which
represents a technical concept in the electrotechnical domain or a domain related to
electrotechnology.
The use of this document facilitates the exchange of technical data through a defined
structure for the information to be exchanged in a computer-sensible form. Each property to
be exchanged has an unambiguously defined meaning and consistent naming, where relevant
a defined value list, a prescribed format and defined units of measure for all quantitative
values. There is also provision for:
a) control of changes to definitions of the properties through version and revision numbers;
b) inclusion of notes and remarks to clarify and help in the application of the definitions;
c) indication of the sources of definitions and value lists;
d) associated figures and formulae.
NOTE IEC TCs and SCs, or other organizations can take this document as a basis for the development of their
own dictionaries.
Out of scope of this document are subjects concerning the information technology
infrastructure such as:
– security;
– database locking mechanisms;
– access rights management.