Integrated data management in a heterogeneous CIM environment

The state of the art in CIM is characterized by islands of automation. In order to bridge the gaps between such islands of automation, appropriate frameworks must be developed for the integration of heterogeneous CIM application systems. One aspect of such frameworks, i.e., data integration is discussed. Different alternative approaches to data integration are presented, and their relative merits and shortcomings are discussed. The approach developed within the SUKTIS project which is dedicated to the integration of heterogeneous application systems within the area of mechanical engineering is described.<>