Using arrays with strings with a while loop

Question

I am writing some code to create fields automatically, which will save me a load of time. I have got most of my code working, but I have came across one error with the code, which is preventing me from achieving my final goal.

The code is as follows:

while ($i <= $numFields) {

    $type               = "\$field{$i}_Data['type']";
    $name               = "\$field{$i}_Data['name']";
    $placeholder        = "\$field{$i}_Data['placeholder']";
    $value              = "\$field{$i}_Data['value']";

    echo '<input type="'.$type.'" name="'.$name.'" placeholder="'.$placeholder.'" value="'.$value.'">';

    $i++;

}

The $numFields variable is defined at the top of my script, and I have worked out that it is something to do with how I am setting the variables $type, $name etc.

The end result is to create inputs depending on properties set in variables at the top of the script, The only issue I am having is with the settings of the variables, as said above.

If any extra code/information is needed, feel free to ask.

Thank you.

NOTE - There is no physical PHP error, it's purely an error with this:

"\$field{$i}_Data['value']";

do you have n array named field1_Data with a variable of type ? — user557846
– user557846, Commented Sep 30, 2014 at 19:33
There is no physical PHP error, it's just that all fields created are text, and their names, values and placeholders are all "$field_Data[""]" with their alterations for each variable. I just wanted to know how I would join the array name with the $i variable to allow the multiple field process. — Ryan
– Ryan, Commented Sep 30, 2014 at 19:38
@Dagon, I have the correct variables, It's just an issue with how I am trying to get the value: "\$field{$i}_Data['value']"; — Ryan
– Ryan, Commented Sep 30, 2014 at 19:39
well i mjust confused and know thers got to be a better approach — user557846
– user557846, Commented Sep 30, 2014 at 19:41

newfurniturey · Accepted Answer · 2014-09-30 20:07:16Z

1

There are a few ways we could write this one out, but they are all extensions of variable expansion and/or variable-variables.

Basically, we just need to put the variable name in a string and then use that string as the variable (much like you're currently doing with $i inside the string):

$type = ${"field{$i}_Data"}['type'];
$name = ${"field{$i}_Data"}['name'];
// ...

However, if you don't mind an extra variable, this can be written more cleanly by saving it like so:

$data = ${"field{$i}_Data"};
$type = $data['type'];
$name = $data['name'];
// ...

answered Sep 30, 2014 at 20:07

newfurniturey

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1 Comment

Ryan Over a year ago

Working perfectly now! Much appreciated.

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