Fail to Convert `.ui` to `.py` File in PyQt6

What You Will Learn

In this tutorial, you will master the art of converting a .ui file to a .py file using PyQt6. This skill is crucial for seamlessly integrating user interfaces within your Python applications.

Introduction to the Problem and Solution

When working with PyQt6, there arises a need to convert UI files created in Qt Designer (.ui files) into executable Python code (.py files). This conversion process enables us to dynamically generate the user interface defined in the UI file. The solution lies in leveraging the PyQt6.uic.loadUiType() method provided by PyQt6.

Code

from PyQt6 import uic

# Load the .ui file and generate corresponding Python code
form_class, base_class = uic.loadUiType("your_ui_file.ui")

# Create a class that loads the UI from the converted form class
class Ui_Form(base_class, form_class):
    def __init__(self):
        super().__init__()
        self.setupUi(self)

# Usage: creating an instance of your generated class above        
app = QApplication([])
window = Ui_Form()
window.show()
sys.exit(app.exec())

# Copyright PHD

Explanation

  • Importing uic: We import the uic module from PyQt6.
  • Loading UI File: Using loadUiType(), we load the .ui file and retrieve two classes – form_class and base_class.
  • Creating Custom Class: We define a custom class that inherits both classes obtained above.
  • Initializing UI: In the constructor of our custom class, we call setupUi() method which initializes our user interface.
  • Launching Application: Finally, we create an application instance, instantiate our custom class window, show it, and run the application.
    How do I install PyQt6?

    To install PyQt6, you can use pip:

    pip install pyqt5 
    
    # Copyright PHD

    What is Qt Designer?

    Qt Designer is a tool bundled with Qt libraries used for designing and building graphical user interfaces.

    Can I convert multiple .ui files into .py files at once?

    Yes, you can iterate over all your .ui files and convert them into .py files using this process.

    Is it possible to modify the converted Python code manually?

    Absolutely! You can customize or extend the generated Python code according to your application’s requirements.

    Do I need Qt installed on my system for this conversion process?

    No separate installation of Qt is necessary as long as you have PyQt library installed in your environment.

    Can I use other GUI design tools instead of Qt Designer with PyQt?

    While you can use other tools, converting their output may require different approaches depending on how they store layout information.

    How do I handle signals and slots after converting UI forms into Python code?

    You can still connect signals emitted by widgets in your form to slots defined in your Python code just like when working directly with pure Python-based GUI creation without conversions.

    Does this approach work with older versions of PyQt like PyQt5 or PySide2?

    While similar concepts apply across versions like PySide2 or even earlier versions of PyQt5/PyQt4, slight variations may exist due to changes in library versions.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, mastering the conversion of .ui files to executable Python scripts empowers us to seamlessly integrate dynamic user interfaces within our applications. This proficiency is vital for efficient GUI development using tools like Qt Designer alongside frameworks such as PyQt.

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