For automation interface information about a Type Definition (TypeDef through the automation interface), see
Typedef (automation interface).
A Type Definition supports the representation of constructed data types, that is, a data type that is more complex than a data type that is intrinsic to a system, such as integer and char. Type Definitions allow the detailed specification of a data type. This detailed specification covers the form of construction of the typedef, either an alias, array, enumeration or sequence.
Create a Type Definition through a Modeler explorer pane or a Class Diagram:
• In a Modeler pane, right-click the Package, point to New, point to UML, point to Structure, point to Type Definition, and then click the command for the Type Definition type you want to create.
• On a Class Diagram, click the Type Definition toolbar button, and then click in free space. Modeler creates a Type Definition of Enumeration construction.
In addition, you can also create a Type Definition by copying an existing Type Definition. Modeler copies the Type Definition's links. For more information, see
Copying items.
When used on a Class Diagram, a Type Definition's notation is as follows:
If you select the UML\Type Definitions folder in the Dictionary pane, the Contents pane displays the following information about each Type Definition in the model: Name, Type, Package, Visibility, Changed By and Changed On.
In the Modeler panes, a short-cut symbol on the Type Definition's icon indicates that the item is a
stub.
The following sections provide information about how a Type Definition is used in the model. For more information about a property, item, model part or diagram, click it.
Properties
In addition to the
standard properties, a Type Definition has these properties:
• Construction — Enumeration, Alias, Sequence or Array
Dependency — The Dependency is owned jointly by the Type Definition and the other associated item. The access permissions you have to a Dependency are determined by the access permissions of the dependent item.
When used as a data type, Modeler creates a special link between the Type Definition and the referencing item. You cannot navigate this link through the Links Editor.
When a Type Definition uses an item as a data type, Modeler creates a special link between the Type Definition and the referenced item. You cannot navigate this link through the Links Editor.