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Data Modeling Strategy for CIM Serialization

Context and Problem Statement

We need to implement serialization/deserialization of CIM profiles (particularly IEC 61970) in our energy management system.

Decision Drivers

The solution must:

  • Accurately represent CIM standard entities.
  • Support both XML (primary CIM format) and JSON.
  • Be maintainable and extensible.
  • Handle large power system models efficiently.

Considered Options

  • Strongly-typed POCO-based Approach
  • XDocument/XElement Approach
  • Dynamic/ExpandoObject Approach
  • Code Generation from XSD

Decision Outcome

Chosen option: "Strongly-typed POCO-based approach" because,

  1. Core Modeling Principles;

  2. Serialization Strategy

    • XML
    • JSON
    • Validation

  3. Performance Optimization

    • Implement lazy-loading for complex relationships
    • Use value-type collections for measurement data
    • Pool frequently used objects

Consequences

Positive:

  • Compile-time safety for data access.
  • Better tooling support (IDE completion, static analysis).
  • Easier unit testing.
  • Natural fit for Entity Framework if needed later.

Negative:

  • Increased initial development effort.
  • Slightly more verbose than dynamic approaches.
  • Requires careful versioning strategy

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