ASTM F3490 : 21

1.1 The scope of this document outlines the interpretation of additive manufacturing (AM) data. Currently, legacy AM data is stored in different databases or data management systems, each of which uses its own data dictionary. A common data dictionary allows AM data pedigree to be discovered, mapped, federated, and analyzed to improve both the understanding and qualification of AM processes and parts.

1.2 A common data dictionary facilitates the interoperability, searchability, and reusability of AM data by (1) identifying the general AM data pedigree elements already defined in a standardized terminology and (2) defining those salient terms with indisputable semantics (meanings). The goal of this document is to provide a first subset of the common data dictionary by which AM data may be collected, curated, and shared, regardless of which technology platform and software are used for data storage and exchange.

1.3 The common data dictionary also specifies a way to group AM data pedigree into fifteen information modules pertaining to different aspects of the entire additive manufacturing process.

1.4 The common data dictionary approach specifies data element names that serve to uniquely identify the AM data elements. The data type, value domain, and term definition for each data element are also specified in this practice. References are provided for those data elements with established definitions in existing standards.

1.5 The data elements identified in this common data dictionary are considered essential, because they are most frequently encountered in AM, process agnostic and technology independent. They are broadly applicable to all the process categories defined in ISO/ASTM 52900. It is intended to be a starting point, not all-encompassing.

1.6 The common data dictionary does not specify:

1.7 Additional data elements beyond those defined in existing ASTM, ISO, AWS, NASA and SAE standards have been introduced to provide increased utility for AM. These new data items are generally common-sense and frequently used in the AM industry.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.