how can I leverage Validation framework for input parameter collection when I don't have/need to persist to database (i.e. no activerecord table) ???

Hi,

How can I leverage Validation framework for input parameter collection when I don't have/need to persist to database (i.e. no activerecord table) ???

I have a set of parameters I want to collect from a form that will be used as input to a 2nd stage. I want to collect the parameters and use the Rails validations framework to assist here however how do I do this when I don't have a database table? (i.e. I won't have an active record model)?

Which is the most popular method for this, for example:

(a) I see there is an activerecord_base_without_table plugin (http://agilewebdevelopment.com/plugins/activerecord_base_without_table) - but it seems like a shame to have to jump into a plugin just to use the validation framework no?

(b) another I see is http://rorblog.techcfl.com/2008/04/02/custom-form-validations-without-activerecord/   (http://validatable.rubyforge.org/)

(c) Is there a direct way to use the validation / activecontroller framework without needing a plugin?

Thanks