KomplexFeldtyp

KomplexFeldtyp (German for "complex field type") is a data-type concept used in data modeling, databases, and form design to represent values that consist of multiple subfields and may be nested or repeated. It contrasts with primitive field types such as string, integer, or boolean by providing a structured container for related data. A KomplexFeldtyp defines a collection of subfields, each with its own type, constraints, and optionality. Subfields can be primitive or other complex types, allowing arbitrary nesting and, in many systems, support for arrays and maps.

In practice, a KomplexFeldtyp supports validation at the subfield level and may impose cross-field rules. Serialization and deserialization enable transfer and storage in formats such as JSON or XML, preserving the hierarchical structure. Default values and optional fields can be specified for flexibility, while indexing or querying strategies may target specific subfields to improve performance.

Common use cases include form data capture with structured responses, API payload schemas, content metadata, configuration schemas, and data interchange between services. Design considerations include handling of optionality, defaulting, versioning of schemas, and the potential performance impact of deeply nested structures.

As a simple example, a KomplexFeldtyp called "Address" might contain subfields: street (string), city (string), and coordinates (another KomplexFeldtyp) with latitude (float) and longitude (float).

See also: Datentyp, Feldtyp, JSON-Schema, XML-Schema.