Complex Types (XSM)

You can only create complex types in a model targeted with XSD.

A complex type is a data type definition used to define attributes and child elements of a parent element. It is a template for a data type definition that can be reused and derived by extension or restriction.

A complex type has:

a global scope when it has no parent element in the diagram and when it is directly linked to the <schema> tag. It can then be reused or derived, by extension or restriction, in other parts of the schema.
a local scope when integrated into an <element> tag. It applies only to its containing element.

The following illustration shows a diagram containing a complex type:

In the example above, HighDefinition is a global complex type, reused as data type for the deluxeTV element.

The generated schema is the following:

Warning!

Global complex types appear in the model as objects, with their corresponding symbol in the diagram. Local complex types only appear in the schema (see Preview tab of an element property sheet).

Creating a Complex Type
You can create a complex type from the Toolbox, Browser, or Model menu.
Complex Type Properties
To view or edit a complex type's properties, double-click its diagram symbol or Browser or list entry. The property sheet tabs and fields listed here are those available by default, before any customization of the interface by you or an administrator.
Linking a Child Object to a Complex Type
XML objects do not support standard link objects. To link a child object to a complex type, you must click the child object tool in the Toolbox and then click the complex type symbol in the diagram. This will automatically create a link between both objects.
Specifying the Type of Content of a Complex Type
A complex type can contain either:

Parent topic: XML Diagrams