Re: [boost] [serialization] register_type and dll/so module

From: Robert Ramey (ramey_at_[hidden])
Date: 2004-04-16 10:55:36

Li Lirong wrote:

> In the serialization library, when classes are never serialized directly 
> but rather through a pointer to the base class, the user need to call 
> register_type so that the archive contains information about the derived 
> classes.

> However, sometimes those derived classes are implemented in another 
> dynamic loaded (dll/so) module.  The type of the derived classes will 
> not be known at compile time.  How can cope with this?  Does the library 
> provide any facilities to help the user in this situation?

This is still under consideration.  Right now its not clear what the best
way to handle this is.  The package contains demo_pimpl and I have a
demo_plugin example on my desk - but I don't think I'm ready to give a good
answer to this question.  Just going into speculation mode I would consider:

a) build the library as a DLL.
b) build the serialization of another type as another DLL
c) use BOOST_CLASS_EXPORT for the ser
d) pray that the type registration maintains a single type/key table in the
main program or library DLL data space.

So clearly we're into new territory here.

Your questions suggest that you're taking the serialization library to
places were no one has gone before.  Just out of curiosity, what is the
application you're working on?

Robert Ramey