Concepts
Core Concepts
Understanding the fundamental concepts of the Eclipse Dataspace Connector
Core Concepts
The Eclipse Dataspace Connector (EDC) is built around several core concepts that enable secure, sovereign data exchange between organizations. Understanding these concepts is essential for effectively using the Management API.
Data Space Principles
A Data Space is a virtual environment where organizations can share data while maintaining control over their data assets. Key principles include:
- Data Sovereignty: Data owners retain control over who can access their data and under what conditions
- Decentralization: No central authority controls the data; it flows directly between participants
- Interoperability: Standard protocols enable different systems to communicate
- Trust: Participants can verify each other's identity and policies
EDC Architecture Overview
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ EDC Connector │
├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ ┌─────────────┐ ┌─────────────┐ ┌─────────────────────────┐ │
│ │ Assets │ │ Policies │ │ Contract Definitions │ │
│ └─────────────┘ └─────────────┘ └─────────────────────────┘ │
│ │ │
│ ▼ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐│
│ │ Federated Catalog ││
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘│
│ │ │
│ ▼ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐│
│ │ Contract Negotiation ││
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘│
│ │ │
│ ▼ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐│
│ │ Transfer Process ││
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘│
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘Key Components
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Asset | A digital resource with metadata and a data address |
| Policy | Rules governing access and usage of data |
| Contract Definition | Links assets to access and contract policies |
| Contract Negotiation | Process of agreeing on terms between provider and consumer |
| Contract Agreement | The finalized, binding agreement |
| Transfer Process | The actual data exchange workflow |
| Catalog | Federated listing of available data offers |
Data Exchange Flow
- Provider creates an Asset and defines Policies
- Provider creates a Contract Definition linking the Asset to Policies
- Consumer discovers the offer through the Catalog
- Consumer initiates Contract Negotiation
- Both parties reach a Contract Agreement
- Consumer initiates a Transfer Process
- Data flows from Provider to Consumer according to the agreement