Adding new command that needs access out of RichTextBox

[Mihajlo]

When we create a new command (inherited from RichTextBoxCommandBase) we have the access to this.AssociatedRichTextBox. But I need the access to properties of the form in which the editor and ribbon bar are just two more properties.

One workaround would be to have empty ExecuteOverride method for the command, and handle the command in CommandExecuting handler of the form.

Another workaround would be to pass the form's reference to custom ribbon bar, and then pass this reference further to the command on command creation.

What is the difference between the two, what is the recommended way? 

[Dimitar]

Hi Mihajlo,

In my opinion, the command should not be tied with the form in any way. If it is you will not be able to reuse it with other forms. The ExecuteOverride method has a single parameter and you should pass all the information needed for the command in it (perhaps you can create a custom object and store all needed inforation in it). For example, the ChangeFontFamilyCommand checks if the parameter is a valid font object or name and changes the font according to the parameter. Here is the code (taken from our source): 

protected override void ExecuteOverride(object parameter)
{
    FontFamily fontFamily = null;

    if (parameter is FontFamily)
    {
        fontFamily = parameter as FontFamily;
    }
    else if (parameter is string)
    {
        fontFamily = new FontFamily((string)parameter);
    }
    else if (parameter is FrameworkElement)// this is for backward compatibility with 2010 Q2 SP1 and previous
    {
        FrameworkElement frameworkElement = (FrameworkElement)parameter;
        fontFamily = new FontFamily(frameworkElement.Tag as string);
    }

    if (fontFamily != null)
    {
        this.AssociatedRichTextBox.ChangeFontFamily(fontFamily);
    }
}

I hope this helps. Should you have any other questions do not hesitate to ask.

 

Regards,
Dimitar
Progress Telerik