Create a Record Type declaration in code at run-time?

[corsair2]

I'm interested in creating database tables at run-time based on information supplied by the user.
Now, I've used the on-line tutorials I've found and they've been very useful and informative BUT!...
The requirements for creating the Db tables have altered (my boss changed his mind again...) and I now think they can be most easily filled if I can figure out a way to use a record type with a variant part.
Trouble is, I don't know if its' even possible to create the Record Type declaration at run-time.
Can anyone save my sanity?

regards

Steve

 

[footpad]

Steve,

I don't believe it's possible to declare a record type at runtime, at least not a RECORD type.

You can, however, create tables at runtime. Thus, one way to do this might be to create a "details" detail table linked to the master record, one that maps custom "fields" as records in a detail table.

Hope this helps...

-- Lance

 

[rfedyk]

Hi Steve,

Variant records still require a declaration so you have to know something abot the field structure in advance.

I have tackled similar problems to yours by using "pseudo" tables aka flat files. However, even here you need to have a reasonable idea of how big a record might be because your "variant" record must have enough room to be represented. Invariably you have a flat file structure with a lot of in-built padding to allow for field changes. To control this you have to build some structures which approximate the "field by name" access features of Delphi

Roger