10.2. Complex Embedded Objects

In Chapter 4, we looked at embedding objects within entities, and how an embedded object becomes part of, and dependent upon, the entity that embeds it. We will now explain how more can be done with embedded objects, and how they can contain more than just basic mappings.

10.2.1. Advanced Embedded Mappings

Embedded objects can embed other objects, have element collections of basic or embeddable types, as well as have relationships to entities. This is all possible under the assumption that objects embedded within other embedded objects are still dependent upon the embedding entity. Similarly, when bidirectional relationships exist within an embedded object, they are treated as though they exist in the owning entity, and the target entity points back to the owning entity, not to the embedded object.