Advanced SmartBox
In K2 SmartObject properties and methods are created using the default system services and settings. To ensure that business objects derived from back end systems are represented correctly in the K2 for Visual Studio or K2 Studio, services are deployed ensuring the mapping of data and methods are accurate.
In the SmartObject Advanced Mode the user can determine which SmartObject properties and methods are to be created as objects in the K2 SmartBox.
The SmartBox check box is displayed on the SmartObject screen next to the SmartObject properties.
Fig. 1. TransactionID set as a property in the K2 SmartBox
- When selected the SmartObject property will be created in the SmartBox server.
- De - selecting the check box signifies that the SmartObject property is derived from an external service.
 |
The SmartBox can only be cleared on creation of the SmartObject property in Advanced Mode. Selecting the Add button will add a new property field to the configuration screen allowing the user to capture the SmartObject property details and select whether or not the property must be created in the SmartBox. |
What is SmartBox
K2 SmartBox is the default back end system available to K2 blackpearl when an external back end system is not available or required. K2 SmartBox is used to store the SmartObject and exposes the properties and methods for other systems or services to use. When SmartBox is used the service methods are created at the same time as the SmartObject. If SmartBox is not used, a ServiceObject with service methods that are exposed must be created first and surface within the K2 Object browser so that they can be used by the SmartObject creation wizard.
SmartBox Deployment Scenarios
When deploying the SmartObject, at least one property must be enabled to deploy to SmartBox. If the SmartBox check box has been disabled, this means that an alternative back end system that is not SmartBox is going to be used. For the properties that are not enabled a warning is produced as part of the deployment as shown below. When disabled, the property will not be deployed and may be deleted from the SmartBox service depending on whether there is data in the SmartObject or not.
Fig. 2. Warning when a property's SmartBox deployment option is disabled
 |
If the SmartObject is being deployed for the second time, and a property's SmartBox option is disabled this will delete the property from SmartBox so long as there is no data stored there. If data has been associated with the property, then this data will be orphaned until such time as the property has been re-enabled and the SmartObject redeployed. |
