Using Simulink to import data tables and apply algorithms

I’d like some assistance in creating a Simulink model – I’m a MATLAB user, but haven’t used Simulink in about 10 years. Basically, I need to import two tables (one static and one dynamic) which shall include row/column names and numbers (doubles). Subsequently, a third table will be created to include results from Tables 1 and 2, then an algorithm shall be applied to the third table. After applying the algorithm, I wish update table 2 and repeat this process every 5 seconds.

My first step is to simply import the data tables. I am considering the ‘constant’,’ import from .mat’, and ‘import from workspace’ blocks. Any recommendations on the best method for doing this?

Any help is appreciated.

Answer 1

[Kaustubha Govind]

The From File and From Workspace blocks are best if you have a vector of input (time) samples. However, since your tables (or at least one of them) are constant w.r.t. time, I would recommend using the Constant block. However, you will need to remove the row/column names and create array constants of type 'double', since Simulink cannot handle non-numeric datatypes.

For Table 2 - you could use something like a Unit Delay block whose initial output is the constant value at t=0. Its input should be connected to the output of your algorithm that updates Table 2.