Sep
12
2010

Design Patterns : Iterator pattern

Article by Haneez Haroon Comments

What is iteration?

In computer science, an iterator is an object which allows a programmer to traverse through all the elements of a collection, regardless of its specific implementation. An iterator is sometimes called a cursor, especially within the context of a database.

Intent

Provide a way to access the elements of an aggregate object sequentially without exposing its underlying representation.

Diagram

Applicability

Use Iterator pattern

To access an aggregate object’s contents without exposing its internal representation.
To support multiple traversals of aggregate objects.
To provide a uniform interface for traversing different aggregate structures (that is, to support polymorphic iteration)

Post by: Haneez Haroon