P1-REQ-13-4-012

Return to Part 1 Requirements

The Conceptual Architecture SHALL distinguish a Data Structure Definition from a Data Structure Instance.

Part 1, Section 13.4: Core Conceptual Element Requirements.

A Data Structure Definition describes the structure, meaning, and constraints of a class of information. A Data Structure Instance identifies a populated occurrence of that definition.

Distinguishing definition from instance prevents a single occurrence of information from redefining the class of information and supports consistent interpretation, validation, and traceability.

This requirement applies to Data Structure Definition and Data Structure Instance references within the Conceptual Architecture.

It applies specifically to:

• Definition-to-instance relationships
• Information classes
• Populated occurrences
• Information interpretation
• Information traceability

Verification SHALL confirm that the Conceptual Architecture distinguishes Data Structure Definitions from Data Structure Instances.

Verification activities include review checks confirming that:

• Data Structure Definitions describe classes of information
• Data Structure Instances identify populated occurrences
• Instances reference definitions without redefining them
• Diagrams and text preserve the distinction between definition and instance

Related source section:

• 13.4 Core Conceptual Element Requirements

Related requirement identifiers:

• P1-REQ-13-4-001
• P1-REQ-13-4-007
• P1-REQ-13-4-008
• P1-REQ-13-4-011

Draft