Include Require.JS (r.js build) into the Middleman build

Question

I work with Middleman to develop, test and build my HAML & SASS Projects.

Now I also like to work with require.js. Is there any way i could integrate the R.js build into the Middleman build?

Did you make any experience with it? How do you handle require.js in middleman?

Answer 1

As far as just "running r.js" is concerned, it's pretty straightforward:

1. Save r.js into the project's root.

2. Define a custom extension (config.rb) which executes r.js after the build:

   module RequireJS
       class << self
           def registered(app)
               app.after_build do |builder|
                   exec('node r.js -o build/javascripts/app.build.js');
               end
           end
           alias :included :registered
       end
   end
   
   ::Middleman::Extensions.register(:requirejs, RequireJS)
   

3. Activate custom extension (config.rb):

   configure :build do
       …
       activate :requirejs
   end
   

Answer 2

r.js can be used with node via the command line, just like middleman. I don't know how exactly you use middleman, but incorporating another command in your workflow shouldn't be a problem. You can find instructions on how to use r.js from the command line here.