Trying to update the value of the datetime_picker via JS using Backpack for Laravel
This article addresses a common issue encountered when working with Backpack for Laravel's datetime_picker field and trying to update its value dynamically using JavaScript.
The problem lies in the fact that while the hidden input field (<input type="hidden">) storing the datetime value is correctly updated, the UI element (the datetime_picker itself) doesn't reflect the change.
Let's break down the issue and its solution.
Understanding the Issue
Backpack's datetime_picker field relies on a combination of a hidden input element (for data storage) and a UI element (the datetime picker widget) for user interaction. While updating the value of the hidden input, we need to explicitly trigger a refresh of the UI element to reflect the new value.
The Solution
We need to leverage the functionality provided by the datetime_picker library to update its UI component after modifying the hidden input value. Here's the adjusted JavaScript code that accomplishes this:
crud.field('listing_appointment_date').onChange(function(field) {
if (field.value) {
if (!crud.field('video_post_date').value) {
var date = new Date(field.value);
var newTime = date.setTime(date.getTime() + 3600000);
var newDate = new Date(newTime);
var year = newDate.getFullYear();
var month = String(newDate.getMonth() + 1).padStart(2, '0');
var day = String(newDate.getDate()).padStart(2, '0');
var hours = String(newDate.getHours()).padStart(2, '0');
var minutes = String(newDate.getMinutes()).padStart(2, '0');
var seconds = String(newDate.getSeconds()).padStart(2, '0');
var formattedDate = `${year}-${month}-${day} ${hours}:${minutes}:${seconds}`;
crud.field('video_post_date').input.value = formattedDate;
// Update the UI element of the datetime picker
crud.field('video_post_date').element.data('DateTimePicker').date(newDate);
}
}
}).change();
Explanation
- Updating the Hidden Input: The code remains the same for calculating the new date and setting the hidden input value.
- UI Refresh: The key addition is
crud.field('video_post_date').element.data('DateTimePicker').date(newDate);.crud.field('video_post_date').element: Retrieves the DOM element of the datetime picker.data('DateTimePicker'): Accesses the jQuery plugin instance of the datetime picker..date(newDate): Triggers a refresh of the UI element, setting the date value tonewDate.
Important Notes
- Datetime Picker Library: Ensure you're using a compatible datetime picker library (e.g., Bootstrap DateTimePicker). The specific methods and syntax for updating the UI may vary depending on the library. Refer to the library's documentation for more information.
- Event Handling: The
.change()method in your original JavaScript code might be causing some issues. It's recommended to remove that call and rely on the.onChange()method for handling the field's change events.
By implementing these changes, the datetime_picker UI will now reflect the updated value after the hidden input field is modified using JavaScript. This provides a seamless user experience where changes are reflected both in the data and the visible component.
