[DFDL-WG] Standard way of expressing semantics of DFDL when scoped properties are involved

[Mike Beckerle]

(revised)
 
In the DFDL spec., the problem exists of how to express the behavior of a
construct in the situation where there are properties in scope surrounding
the construct. 
 
I believe this kind of syntax can be used in the spec. to make clear the
implications of scope:
 
 Properties in scope: lengthKind="implicit"
             representation="text" 

<sequence dfdl:separator="," dfdl:terminator=";" 
          dfdl:lengthKind="delimited">   // these are local
    <element name="f1" type="string" /> 
    <element name="f2" type="string" /> 
</sequence> 

 
I would suggest the above syntax for the DFDL spec as a way to discuss
property semantics. The only way properties can get in scope is by way of an
enclosing complexType definition; but using that syntax explicitly begs the
question of whether one means true lexical enclosure, can there be other
enclosing complexTypes also, etc. The above style eliminates these issues.
 
 
Mike Beckerle | OGF DFDL WG Co-Chair | CTO | Oco, Inc.
Tel:  781-810-2100  | 504 Totten Pond Road, Waltham MA 02451 |
<mailto:mbeckerle.dfdl at gmail.com> mbeckerle.dfdl at gmail.com 
 
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