How Do I Get Entity Framework To Update Complex Types?

Question

I'm using the Entity Framework (EF) to create a complex type from a stored procedure. Recently, the stored procedure changed (more return values were added. I would like to update the complex type that maps to this stored procedure. Is this possible and if so, how? I am currently deleting my function import and complex type each time a stored procedure changes, which is most likely not the best approach.

Answer 1

I found another way of doing this without deleting the complex type. You can update your Complex Type and Visual Studio will add any changed columns. Here's how:

1. Open your .edmx file and go to the model browser.
2. If your stored proc changed, right-click on any white area in the model browser and select Update Model From Database, click "Finish". This will refresh your stored procedure.
3. Now drill down into XModel.edmx > XModel > EntityContainer:XEntities > Function Imports (X is your entity name) and right-click the one that you need to update. Select Edit.
4. Click "Get Column Information". Now, next to the Complex Type radio button, there is a Update button. Press this to update your complex type and then press the OK button.

That should do it!