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one variable to hold different types?

silothesuper · 2006-04-17T13:57:51

I have a struct with a bunch of variables in it. I want to be able to assign either a float, int, bool or a char array to a variable in my struct. Is there a way I can have it so that I only have to have one variable to hold either the float, int, bool or char array instead of having one of each type and only using one of them? I read something about void pointers somewhere from google, I tried to use void pointers but I couldn't get it to work.

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Started by silothesuper April 17, 2006 03:50 AM

10 comments, last by Rebooted 18 years ago

izhbq412

204

April 17, 2006 01:48 PM

A more general solution to your problem is to use a type that can hold different types at run-time, like VCL's Variant type (inherited from Object Pascal).

A quick search revealed boost::any - it might be just what you're looking for ;)

_______________The essence of balance is detachment. To embrace a cause, to grow fond or spiteful, is to lose one''s balance after which, no action can be trusted. Our burden is not for the dependent of spirit. - Mayar, Third Keeper

Rebooted

612

April 17, 2006 01:57 PM

A discriminated union class is usually a better solution than a raw C union, assuming you are using C++ and not C.

I'd suggest using boost::variant.

There is also boost::any, but you can't restrict the types it takes - it can hold anything.