TS EN 81714-2

TS EN 81714-2 addresses how graphical symbols used in the technical documentation of products are defined, stored, and exchanged in a computer-readable form. The focus of this part is not only the visual appearance of a symbol, but also its specification as data within a reference symbol library. In practice, this supports consistent reuse of the same symbol across different software tools used for technical documentation.

Computer-sensible symbol specification

In general technical context, graphical symbols are used in manuals, diagrams, labels, and related product documentation to convey information in a language-independent way. The scope of this standard covers requirements for graphical symbols included in a reference library in computer sensible form, as well as requirements for their interchange among computer-aided tools. This means the symbol is treated as editable and reusable content, not merely as a static graphic output.

Why reference libraries and interchange matter

A reference symbol library can provide a common foundation for document design and editing workflows, helping maintain symbol consistency across CAD, documentation, and content-management environments. The interchange aspect in the title points to a structured basis for moving symbol libraries and related documents between computer-aided tools. That is important for reuse, maintainability, and data integrity in technical product documentation.

This part is positioned as a horizontal standard, supporting the broader use of symbols in technical documentation rather than a single product family. Its practical value lies in making symbol content portable across systems while preserving consistency of use across documents.