Overview
ISO 23584-1:2009 - "Optics and photonics - Specification of reference dictionary - Part 1: General overview on organization and structure" defines the framework for a standardized, electronic reference dictionary of product properties for the optics and photonics sector. It sets out the organization, data model and classification principles needed to create unambiguous, machine‑readable property and class definitions that support e‑Business, e‑product catalogs and lifecycle data exchange.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Purpose and scope: Establishes the basis for preparing and delivering a complete reference dictionary of standardized product properties in electronic form for optics and photonics.
- Data model & classification: Properties are described by attributes and allocated to definition classes to provide context. A hierarchical “reference hierarchy” prevents ambiguity and supports inheritance rules.
- Attribute sets: Specifies sets of attributes for both properties and classes (examples of important attributes include Code, Version, Preferred name, Definition, Domain and Unit of measure), plus ISO/TC 172 specific attributes (e.g., ownerTCSC, ebXML URI, Classification to ICS).
- Definition vs application classes: Distinguishes between generic definition classes (where properties are defined) and application classes (which reference properties to describe concrete objects for data interchange).
- Compatibility with existing standards: Implements rules from ISO 13584‑42, IEC 61360‑1 and ISO/IEC Guide 77‑2 and aligns with ICS (International Classification for Standards).
- Electronic delivery: Emphasizes making the dictionary available in processable electronic form (online database, downloadable files or media) to enable direct import into software systems.
Applications and who uses it
ISO 23584-1 is intended for organizations that need consistent, unambiguous optical product data for automated processes:
- Optical manufacturers and component suppliers (for parts catalogs and procurement)
- Engineering and design teams using optical software (e.g., lens design, CAD)
- ERP, PIM and PLM system integrators who require standardized properties for data exchange
- e‑marketplaces, e‑product catalog providers and lifecycle management platforms
- Standards bodies and ISO/TC 172 working groups developing Part 2 and database implementations
Benefits include reduced data conversion errors, improved interoperability across tools (simulation, CAD, ERP), clearer supplier–customer communication, and streamlined product lifecycle information flows.
Related standards
- ISO 13584‑42 (Parts library - structuring part families / data model)
- IEC 61360‑1 (Standard data element types)
- ISO/IEC Guide 77‑2 (Specification of product properties and classes)
- ISO 31 (Quantities and units)
- ISO 23584‑2 (Part 2: Classes' and properties' definitions)
Keywords: ISO 23584-1, optics and photonics, reference dictionary, standardized product properties, electronic data exchange, ISO/TC 172, ISO 13584-42, IEC 61360-1, definition classes, reference hierarchy.
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