How can I extend a compiler generated copy constructor

Question

I frequently run into the problem, that I must extend a compiler generated copy constructor. Example:

class xyz;
class C
{
    ...
    int a, b, c; 
    std:         


        

Answer 1

I'd say create a smart pointer that handles the copying, and then use it as a member of your class. These codes may give you an idea:

Depending on how the base call constructor is initiated, the member's constructors will be called the same way. For example, let's start with:

struct ABC{
    int a;
    ABC() : a(0)    {   printf("Default Constructor Called %d\n", a);   };

    ABC(ABC  & other )  
    {
        a=other.a;
        printf("Copy constructor Called %d \n" , a ) ;
    };
};

struct ABCDaddy{
    ABC abcchild;
};

You can do these tests:

printf("\n\nTest two, where ABC is a member of another structure\n" );
ABCDaddy aD;
aD.abcchild.a=2;

printf( "\n Test: ABCDaddy bD=aD;  \n" );
ABCDaddy bD=aD; // Does call the copy constructor of the members of the structure ABCDaddy ( ie. the copy constructor of ABC is  called)

printf( "\n Test: ABCDaddy cD(aD); \n" );
ABCDaddy cD(aD);    // Does call the copy constructor of the members of the structure ABCDaddy ( ie. the copy constructor of ABC is  called)

printf( "\n Test: ABCDaddy eD; eD=aD;  \n" );
ABCDaddy eD;
eD=aD;          // Does NOT call the copy constructor of the members of the structure ABCDaddy ( ie. the copy constructor of ABC is not called)

Output:

Default Constructor Called 0

Test: ABCDaddy bD=aD;
Copy constructor Called 2

Test: ABCDaddy cD(aD);
Copy constructor Called 2

Test: ABCDaddy eD; eD=aD;
Default Constructor Called 0

Enjoy.