Representing Business Data Semantics In CIM using UML

The IEC TC 57 common information model (CIM) started with a focus on the power system models in the energy management systems (EMS) domain. The need for a common model in distribution management systems (DMS) and market operations drove CIM into those areas. The CIM was created in order to provide an information exchange format to facilitate the integration of applications and systems independent of their vendors and implementation. The current CIM model, including 61970 Part 301 and 61968 Part 11, intends to provide a standard semantic foundation for applications and systems to move toward interoperability. Given the fact that more and more integration projects are leveraging the standard CIM and using it as one of the input models forming the basis of an enterprise-wise model, the semantics (meaning "meanings") of the model are the key aspect that enables applications and systems (developers) to understand the data that is shared or exchanged among them. This paper provides an overview of how the business data semantics are represented in CIM using UML syntax. It elaborates on the meanings of the UML modeling concepts, which are further examined in the context of CIM. A set of recommendations is then proposed, regarding the modeling of CIM