How To Fix WFF_FORM_SERVER502 - Class CL_WFF_FORM_DATA: Copying not permitted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WFF_FORM_SERVER - Web Financials Forms: Form Server

• Message number: 502

• Message text: Class CL_WFF_FORM_DATA: Copying not permitted

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WFF_FORM_SERVER502 - Class CL_WFF_FORM_DATA: Copying not permitted ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation regarding the SAP error message:
  
  SAP Error Message:
  WFF_FORM_SERVER502 Class CL_WFF_FORM_DATA: Copying not permitted
  
  Cause:
  This error typically occurs in SAP Workflow when there is an attempt to copy or duplicate an instance of the class CL_WFF_FORM_DATA, but the class does not allow copying. The class CL_WFF_FORM_DATA is designed to handle workflow form data, and it has restrictions on copying its instances to maintain data integrity and consistency.
  In ABAP Object-Oriented programming, if a class does not implement the COPY method or explicitly forbids copying (e.g., by not implementing the CLONE interface or by raising an exception in the copy constructor), trying to copy an object of that class will result in this error.
  In the context of SAP Workflow Forms, this can happen if the workflow runtime or a custom code tries to duplicate form data objects improperly.
  
  When does it occur?
  
  During workflow execution when forms are processed.
  When a workflow container or form data object is being copied internally by the workflow engine or custom code.
  Possibly during workflow restart, reprocessing, or when a form is being resubmitted or duplicated.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Custom Code:
  
  If you have custom workflow or form processing code that tries to copy or clone instances of CL_WFF_FORM_DATA, review it.
  Avoid copying the object directly. Instead, create a new instance and manually transfer the required data.
  
  
  
  Use Provided Methods:
  
  Use the methods provided by the class to manipulate form data rather than copying the object.
  For example, use GET_DATA, SET_DATA methods to read and write form data.
  
  
  
  Avoid Direct Copying:
  
  Do not use = operator or COPY statement on objects of this class.
  If you need a duplicate, instantiate a new object and populate it accordingly.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Patches:
  
  Check for relevant SAP Notes that might address this issue or provide patches.
  Sometimes, SAP releases corrections if this is caused by a bug in standard workflow components.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  Debug the workflow runtime to identify where the copy attempt is made.
  Trace back to the code or standard function module causing the copy.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Class: CL_WFF_FORM_DATA is part of the SAP Workflow Framework and handles form data.
  Workflow Forms: These are used to collect user input during workflow execution.
  SAP Workflow: Workflow engine manages the process flow and data handling.
  ABAP OO: Understanding of object copying and cloning in ABAP is essential.
  SAP Notes: Search SAP Support Portal for notes related to WFF_FORM_SERVER502 or CL_WFF_FORM_DATA.
  
  
  Summary:
  
  Cause: Attempt to copy an instance of CL_WFF_FORM_DATA which does not permit copying.
  Solution: Avoid copying the object; use provided methods to manipulate data; check and correct custom code.
  Additional: Debug and check SAP Notes for patches or further guidance.
  
  
  If you provide more context (e.g., custom code snippets or workflow steps), I can help you with a more specific solution.