How To Fix /IWBEP/SBOD161 - Function Import '&1': Return type expected (check Return Type Kind)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /IWBEP/SBOD -

• Message number: 161

• Message text: Function Import '&1': Return type expected (check Return Type Kind)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /IWBEP/SBOD161 - Function Import '&1': Return type expected (check Return Type Kind) ?

  The SAP error message /IWBEP/SBOD161 Function Import '&1': Return type expected (check Return Type Kind) typically occurs in the context of SAP Gateway and OData services when there is an issue with the definition of a function import in your OData service. This error indicates that the system is expecting a return type for the function import, but it is either not defined or incorrectly specified.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Return Type: The function import does not have a return type defined in the service metadata.
  Incorrect Return Type: The return type specified does not match the expected format or is not recognized by the system.
  Service Metadata Issues: There may be issues with the service metadata that prevent the return type from being correctly interpreted.
  Function Import Configuration: The function import might not be properly configured in the OData service definition.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Function Import Definition:
  
  Go to the SAP Gateway Service Builder (transaction code SEGW).
  Locate the function import that is causing the error.
  Ensure that the return type is defined correctly. If it is a collection, ensure that it is marked as such.
  
  
  
  Define Return Type:
  
  If the return type is missing, define it in the function import settings.
  You can specify a complex type or an entity type as the return type based on your requirements.
  
  
  
  Regenerate the Service:
  
  After making changes to the function import definition, regenerate the service.
  Use the "Generate" option in the Service Builder to update the service metadata.
  
  
  
  Check Service Metadata:
  
  After regeneration, check the service metadata (using the service URL with $metadata) to ensure that the function import and its return type are correctly defined.
  
  
  
  Test the Function Import:
  
  Use tools like SAP Gateway Client (transaction /IWFND/GW_CLIENT) or Postman to test the function import and verify that it returns the expected results.
  
  
  
  Check for Errors in Implementation:
  
  If you have implemented the function import logic in the backend (e.g., in ABAP), ensure that the implementation is correct and that it returns the expected data structure.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  OData Services: Understanding how OData services work in SAP Gateway is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the concepts of entity types, complex types, and function imports.
  SAP Gateway Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for detailed information on creating and managing OData services.
  Debugging: If the issue persists, consider debugging the service to trace where the return type is being set or interpreted incorrectly.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and ensure that your function import is correctly defined and functional.