Builder Pattern
The Builder pattern in C# is a creational design pattern that focuses on the construction of complex objects step by step. It separates the construction of a complex object from its representation, allowing the same construction process to create different representations. This pattern is useful when the creation of an object involves multiple steps, and different representations or configurations of the same object are needed.
The Builder pattern is particularly useful in scenarios where the creation of complex objects involves multiple steps or configurations, and when there is a need to create different variations of the same object structure. Here are some common usage scenarios where the Builder pattern can be effectively applied:
Usage Scenarios
- Creating Configurable Objects: Building configuration objects for applications where different configurations affect the behavior or appearance of the application. For instance, configuring a user interface with different themes or settings.
- Database Query Builders: Building SQL queries dynamically where different query types (select, insert, update) and conditions (filters, sorting) are constructed step by step. Each builder can handle specific types of queries and conditions.
- Document Generation: Generating documents (like PDFs or reports) with complex structures and formatting requirements. Builders can handle different sections, formatting styles, headers, and footers based on user preferences or business rules.
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Product Configurators: Configuring products with optional features or customizations where the user can select different options (e.g., color, size, material) that affect the final product. Builders can handle the assembly of the product based on selected options.
- Web Service Request Builders: Constructing HTTP requests to interact with web services, where requests may vary in terms of headers, parameters, and payload structure. Builders can facilitate the creation of different types of requests (GET, POST, PUT) with varying parameters.
- Vehicle Assembly: Building vehicles (cars, bikes) with different configurations of engines, interiors, and optional features. Each builder can handle specific types of vehicles (e.g., sports car, sedan, motorcycle) with their unique components.
- Complex Form Builders: Building forms or wizards in applications where each step requires different input fields, validations, and actions. Builders can manage the creation of form elements dynamically based on user interactions or predefined templates.