MATLAB: How is the use of matrices in Embedded MATLAB Function blocks supported by Simulink HDL Coder 1.2 (R2007b)

Question

In Simulink HDL Coder 1.2 (R2007b) Embedded MATLAB chapter, the Language Support section is unclear about the use of matrices in Embedded MATLAB code versus the connection of matrix signals to Embedded MATLAB I/O ports.

Open the documentation for MATLAB 7.5 (R2007b), and from the "Contents" tab, expand "Simulink HDL Coder", then expand "Generating HDL Code with the Embedded MATLAB Function Block", then select "Language Support".

Under the heading "Variables and Constants", there is a discussion of data type support, and the phrase "Matrices are not supported in the current release" is used. This seems to imply that the use of matrices is not supported.

However, under the heading "Arithmetic Operators", there is a discussion of operator support, and the following operators are among those listed as supported: "Matrix power", "Matrix transpose", "Matrix concat". This seems to imply that matrices are supported. This contradicts with the section mentioned above.

Answer 1

The following statements clarify the use of matrices in Embedded MATLAB Function blocks intended for use in HDL code generation:

- Matrix use is supported within the MATLAB code of an Embedded MATLAB Function block.

- Matrices are not supported data types for signals connected to the inports or outports of an Embedded MATLAB Function block.