In my current project, I am developing a graph visualization tool that utilizes Lift on the server side and d3 (a JavaScript visualization framework) for all the graphical representations. However, I am facing a challenge where I need to retrieve session-specific data from the server within my script.
My goal is to implement lift-valid Ajax callbacks in a static JS script in order to achieve this functionality.
Attempts so far
If you believe that a solution I have already tried would be the best approach, please provide detailed instructions on how to utilize it effectively to address my issue.
Creating an Ajax callback in a separate script using Lift and then invoking it from the primary script
This potential solution appears promising, akin to a hidden text input mechanism. Yet, while it may work, it lacks elegance and requires loading multiple scripts upon launch, which is not ideal.
This method seems to be favored within the Lift community, as discussed in this mailing list thread.
Implementing a REST interface
Typically, one would establish a RESTful interface to obtain data from a JavaScript function in Lift. However, this interface will not be tied to any particular session, as previously mentioned in an earlier query.
Passing functions as arguments to scripts
Another option involves supplying the Ajax callback as an argument to the main script responsible for generating the graph. Nevertheless, handling numerous callbacks without altering the script's parameters can be cumbersome.
Coding the entire script in Lift and serving it to the client
While elegant, transitioning the lengthy script entirely into Lift may not be preferable, as maintaining its static nature is essential.
Objectives
Client-side Requirements
Upon inspecting my webpage's source code, I identified an AjaxSelect callback with the syntax:
<select onchange="liftAjax.lift_ajaxHandler('F966066257023LYKF4=' + encodeURIComponent(this.value), null, null, null)" name="F96606625703QXTSWU" id="node_delete" class="input">
Additionally, there is a variable storing the page state at the end of the webpage:
var lift_page = "F96606625700QRXLDO";
I am exploring the possibility of simulating a valid Ajax call by leveraging the liftAjax.lift_ajaxHandler function. However, I require assistance with the correct syntax to achieve this.
Server-side Considerations
After emulating a request on the client side, I aim to receive and direct the request to the appropriate function. The LiftRules.dispatch object seems suitable for this task, as it manages session authentication and linking requests, but I seek guidance on crafting the required code in the append function.
Additional Note
In Lift, variables are anonymized for security purposes. I intend to preserve this behavior in my application, even if it entails communicating these random values to the JavaScript. Managing an array of 15 string values still appears more feasible than integrating 15 functions as arguments within a JavaScript function.
Update
During my research, I came across a resource: Mapping server functions to client actions. While it sheds light on the significance of named functions, it has yet to guide me towards a functional solution.