How to read Dbml file and map it into an object model in .net?

Question

Im planning to write a code generator to generate UI (forms, grids, etc.). Since i'm using Linq i'm planning to read dbml file for metadata extraction purposes. I wonder if there is some Api to read the Dbml object model (database, tables, columns, asociations).

I've opened SQLMetal.exe with Red Gate's .NET Reflector, it contains a namespace called LinqToSqlShared.DbmlObjectModel and it seems it contains everything i need to read dbml object model. The bad news is: that namespace is not exposed for external consumption and all classes are declared as "Friend" (or sealed).

Once again, do somebody knows if exists something like LinqToSqlShared.DbmlObjectModel namespace to read dbml to an object model in .net.? or do i have to write it my self...? :'(

Answer 1

Have you taken a look at a tool like Reegenerator (http://www.reegenerator.com/)? We're considering this as a replacement for the L2S code generator because we've got some specific code generation requirements.

Answer 2

Have a look at how the model is read here in the L2ST4:

http://l2st4.codeplex.com/

you could reuse the tt file.