How to update a Vector layer with WFS protocol, after updating the filter?

Question

I am using a Vector Layer with WFS protocol to show only a subset of the data. The filter which defines the subset, changes dynamically from the code. How do I refresh the layer, to show only the data that satisfies the new filter?

layer.refresh(); does not work.

Answer 1

If your vector layer is called wfslayer, use the the force option on the refresh method like this:

wfslayer.refresh({force: true}); 

Answer 2

you could also do this:

var refresh = new OpenLayers.Strategy.Refresh({force: true, active: true});

and then as a strategy on the WMS layer :

strategies: [new OpenLayers.Strategy.Fixed(), refresh],

then call this where and when needed:

refresh.refresh();

edit:

If you want to test, try this from your init() (onload property content) or in a document.ready block:

  /* Now reload the vector data every 20 seconds */
  setInterval(function () {
        refresh.refresh();
  },20000);

It has to show the async requests in the firebug console and under the tab too, if not your not calling it for some reason.