The Universal Container
Mantra: Bind folders & files to tables & records.
Tagline: Files close to data.
wob_Boxes provides a managed, Dropbox-like repository for files, without storing them in the database as BLOBs. It offers a structured hierarchy for file storage at the global, table, and individual record levels, keeping your database lean and efficient while providing a familiar file management interface for users.
- Structured File Repository: A root folder on the server is designated for all file storage.
wob_Boxesthen creates a structured hierarchy for global files, table-specific files, and individual record-specific files. - Client-Server Interface: Generic widgets are provided for easy placement on any form. These widgets open a Finder-like interface, allowing users to drag & drop files, view, organize, and recover files stored in their dedicated boxes.
- Programmatic Access: Low-level methods enable server-side automation. You can programmatically retrieve files (
Get file from Box), save files (Save file to Box), and use them for automated tasks like attaching files to outgoing emails. - Technical Foundation: The entire system is built on robust, standard POSIX paths and utilizes 4D's built-in
FileandFolderclasses for reliable cross-platform operation. - Widget Integration: The resizable widget displays the file count of the related folder. On click, it opens a form in a separate process, providing a bounded view of this folder. The widget's file count is automatically updated when the contents of the opened
ogBoxare modified. - Key Benefits:
- Database Efficiency: Keeps user files out of the database, maintaining optimal performance and size.
- Ease of Use: Provides a familiar, intuitive file browser experience anywhere in your application.
- Flexibility: Offers structured storage at the global, table, and individual record levels.
- Powerful Automation: Supports both user interaction and fully programmed file management.
- Multi-Language Support: Fully localized in English (EN), French (FR), Spanish (ES), and German (DE).
- 4DPop toolbar Compatible. It includes a 4DPop.json manifest for easy integration.
- 4D 21 or higher (Project mode recommended).
- wok_Krolific – Licensing component (mandatory dependency).
- wox_Xlibrary – Core utilities (mandatory dependency).
- woc_Colours – Color management engine (mandatory dependency).
- The SVG with Classes must be available in your project.
Starting with 4D 21, the recommended way to install wob_Boxes (and any ogTools component) is through the Dependencies Manager using the GitHub repository:
- In your 4D project, open the Dependencies Manager (
Project > Dependencies). - Click the
+button and select Add a dependency from a Git URL. - Enter the following Git URL:
protee/wob_Boxes - Choose the desired version (e.g.,
main,latest, or a specific release tag). - Confirm the installation – the component will be automatically fetched from GitHub, and linked to your project.
- Don't forget to open your database structure settings dialog and go to the Security page to enable, if necessary, the Execute the "On host database event" method of the component option. This ensure your component is well initialised automatically.
Note: For team development, commit the dependency configuration file (
dependencies.json) to your source control so all team members automatically fetch the same version from GitHub.
wob_Boxes is the file repository pillar of the comprehensive ogTools suite – an integrated development ecosystem for 4D. Other key components include:
| Icon | Component | Description |
|---|---|---|
 |
wok_Krolific | License manager. |
 |
wox_Xlibrary | Core utilities for everyday development tasks. |
 |
woc_Colours | Advanced, indexed color management engine. |
wob_Boxes is a commercial component and is part of the paid ogTools suite. A valid license is required for use. For licensing options and trial requests, please contact the sales team directly.
wob_Boxes supports the following languages out‑of‑the‑box:
- 🇺🇸 English (EN), 🇫🇷 French (FR), 🇪🇸 Spanish (ES), 🇩🇪 German (DE)
- More on demand
Localization affects error messages, UI prompts, and built‑in pane texts.
- Official Website: https://www.protee.org
- Documentation: Full documentation and HDI (Host Database Interface) demos are included with your purchase.
For direct inquiries:
- Email: [email protected]
wob_Boxes and the ogToolsSuite are developed by Protée sarl, a company with over 30 years of expertise in 4D development. Led by Olivier Grimbert, the team focuses on delivering high‑quality, production‑grade tools that enhance developer productivity and application reliability.