The TDM data model arranges data in three hierarchical levels: files, channel groups, and channels. You can associate custom properties with each level of hierarchy.

Figure 33. TDM Data Model
Diagram of TDM data model with the file, channel groups, and channels hierarchy.
  • The file level can contain an unlimited number of channel groups.
  • Each channel group can contain an unlimited number of channels.
  • Each channel contains a 1D array of data values.
  • Each level of hierarchy can have associated properties that you define.

The TDM Data Model has distinct benefits:

  • You can organize your data flexibly and make the data easy to understand. For example:
    • You can have one group for raw data and another group for the analyzed data in one single file.
    • You can also have multiple groups that correspond to sensor types or locations.
  • At each level of the hierarchy, you can store an unlimited number of custom scalar properties. Each level accepts an unlimited number of custom properties to achieve well-documented and search-ready data files.

    The descriptive information located in the file is a key benefit of this data model. This information provides an easy way to document the data without having to design your own header structure. As your documentation requirements increase, you do not have to redesign your application. Because of this structure, you only need to extend the current model to meet the specific requirements.

    The more custom properties you use to document the measurement data, the more easily you can locate the data at a later time.