While Loop Node in Pathways

The While Loop node in Pathways is used to repeatedly execute a sequence of tasks while a specified condition remains true. This is particularly useful for iterative processes or workflows that require continuous execution until a logical condition is no longer satisfied.

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Configuration Options

1. Name
   • Description: A descriptive label for the While Loop node to easily identify its purpose in the workflow.
   • Input: Text field.
   • Example: "Validate Data Input Loop".
2. Condition
   • Description: The logical condition that determines whether the loop continues to execute. The loop will run as long as this condition evaluates to true.
   • Input Type: Dropdown with two options for defining the condition:
     • Script: Allows the user to define a condition using custom script logic for complex evaluations.
     • Handlebars Template: Enables the use of Handlebars expressions for simple, template-driven logic.
   • Required: Yes.
   • Example:
     • Script: data.value < 100
     • Handlebars Template: {{data.isValid}}.

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How It Works

• The node evaluates the Condition before every iteration.
• If the condition is true:
  • Executes the sequence of tasks defined in the loop.
  • Rechecks the condition after execution.
• If the condition is false:
  • The loop stops, and the workflow continues to the next step.

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Practical Example

Suppose you want to monitor a data stream until a specific value exceeds a threshold:

1. Configure the Condition as data.temperature < 75.
2. Inside the loop, define tasks such as logging the current temperature and sending alerts if required.
3. Once the temperature reaches 75 or higher, the loop stops, and the workflow proceeds.

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Notes

• Ensure the condition is well-defined to avoid infinite loops.
• Use appropriate error handling or exit strategies if the condition might result in extended iterations.
• Combine with nodes like Break to programmatically exit the loop under specific scenarios.

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This node is a flexible tool to add iterative functionality to your Pathways workflow, enabling dynamic and responsive execution paths.