Multidimensional Values

The MultiDimensionalValue concept is used to describe properties that are represented by multiple values across different dimensions — for example, a characteristic curve.

The dimensions, e.g., tripping time and current for a fuse characteristic, of a MultiDimensionalValue are defined by referencing the corresponding QuantityKinds in which the dimensions are expressed. The QuantityKind also defines a consistent Unit of measurement for values in a specific dimension.

To provide a standardized semantic meaning for specific use cases, subclasses of MultiDimensionalValue are introduced. These subclasses reference the defined QuantityKind in role-specific contexts. However, those references only define a specific semantic for the dimensions defined by the MultiDimensionalValue itself. That means, those specific QuantityKinds shall also be included in the dimension-association of the MultiDimensionalValue.

For instance, a FuseCharacteristic must reference at least two dimensions:

• I = the tripping current
• T = the time it takes for the fuse to disconnect

Additional dimensions may be included in certain use cases (e.g., temperature). By explicitly referencing the required dimensions in the FuseCharacteristic, these are marked as mandatory and receive a clearly defined semantic meaning.

The value definition consists of a series of DataPoints. Each DataPoint of a MultiDimensionalValue shall define exactly one DataPointValue for each QuantityKind that is defined as dimension of the MultiDimensionalValue, and only for those.