Use inputs of a user defined Matlab function block as global variables whithin the block

In my simulink model there is a Matlab function which consists of many functions:

function block_output = MatFun1(input1, input2, ...)
  ...
  block_output = MatFun2(x, t)
end

 function y = MatFun2(x, t)
    y = f(x, t, input1, input2, ...)
 end

Mathematically MatFun2 is just a function of x and t. Therefore, I would like to keep the notation intact. However, the function requires the block's inputs as well. I tried to globalize the variables input1, input2, ... to be able to use them in MatFun2 as well:

 function block_output = MatFun1(input1, input2, ...)
    global block_inputs
    block_inputs = [input1, input2, ...]
    ...
    block_output = MatFun2(x, t)
  end

However, I encounter the following error:

 Global declaration not resolved to a Data Store Memory block registered via the Ports and Data Manager.

As I mentioned, I do not want to pass input1, input2, ... to MatFun2 as arguments. Moreover, I want these variables to be known just within this block (not the whole simulink model). Nested functions are also not desirable. What options do I have and how can I resolve the problem?

[Swarooph]

Can you clarify how you access the variables x and t inside MatFun1? Also, which one is the main MATLAB function here? MatFun1 or MatFun2? Could you attach a model that kind of does this so we can see the same error and try to resolve it?

[Ali Baradaran]

Dear Swarooph,

x and t are persistent variables whose initial values are known within this block. They evolve inside the block. MatFun1 is the main function and the inputs of the block are the arguments of this function. However, these inputs are undefined inside MatFun2.

Please find attached an example which resembles my model.

[Swarooph]

Good news: I was able to make the error disappear. Please find the modified model attached. I declared a Data Store Memory called inputs in the Edit Data dialog of MATLAB function.

And I also put in a Data Store Memory block in the Simulink model referring to the same.

Running this model does not error anymore.

Not so good news: In my experience of using Simulink, it seems like you are trying to model something in MATLAB that is perhaps easier to just do in Simulink itself using other blocks.. Of course I don't have the big picture and maybe you have come to this design pattern after a lot of research. I am just guessing here. But the path you are set on doesn't seem very promising to me with MATLAB functions, global variables and such. Just my 2 cents.

[Ali Baradaran]

Dear Swarooph,

Thanks for your reply. Since you have commented under my question (instead of answering it), I am not able to vote for it. But thanks again. Regarding your tip, I will reconsider my design.

Answer 1

[Swarooph]

This documentation shows how to do this: How to Use Data Store Memory Blocks

Specific fix to the question in the comments to the question.