Redefining Nodes

Once you reference an XML Schema by redefining it, you are able to redefine that XML Schema's complexTypes, simpleTypes, groups, and attributeGroups. This section describes how to redefine nodes using the Diagram tab.

Extensions and Restrictions

There are two ways to redefine a node: by extension and restriction. An extension extends the base type - adding an element or an attribute definition, for example. A restriction constrains the base type - limiting a type to a certain range of values, for example.

Specifying Restriction Facets

If you define a restriction using a simpleType, the Properties window displays a section that allows you to define the facets that restrict that type, as shown in Figure 305.

Restriction facets include length, minLength, maxLength, and totalDigits. For each facet you specify, you provide the facet name, a value, and, for some facets, whether or not the value is fixed. Note that not all facets apply to all types.

See About Facet Types for simpleTypes for more information on facets.

How to Redefine a Node

To redefine a node in the Diagram view:
1. Right-click the schema node .
2. Select Redefine from the shortcut menu.

The Redefine Schema Symbols dialog box appears.

The redefined node is added to the diagram, and the text for the redefined node appears in the text pane. For example, <xsd:complexType name="PublicationType"/>.

4. Right-click the redefined node.
5. From the shortcut menu, select Quick Edit > and then either Derive by extension or Derive by restriction.

The Type Derivation dialog box appears.

The node you added in Figure 3 is modified in the diagram to display the restriction or extension you are using to redefine it, as shown in Figure 308.

The code displayed in the text pane is also modified. For example:

<xsd:complexType name="PublicationType"> 
   <xsd:simpleContent> 
     <xsd:restriction base="SKU"/> 
   </xsd:simpleContent> 
</xsd:complexType> 

 
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