Control Algorithm Modeling Guidelines

Using MATLAB®, Simulink®, and

Stateflow®

Version 5.0

MathWorks Advisory Board (MAB)

1
History
Date Revision
February 2001 Initial document Release, Version 1.00
April 2007 Version 2.00, Update release
July 2011 Version 2.20, Update release
August 2012 Version 3.0, Update release
March 2020 Version 5.0, MAAB guidelines revised and reintroduced as
the MathWorks Advisory Board (MAB) Modeling Guidelines

Trademarks
MATLAB, Simulink, and Stateflow are registered trademarks of The MathWorks, Inc. See
www.mathworks.com/trademarks for a list of additional trademarks. Other product or brand names may be
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

2
Table of Contents

1. Introduction ........................................................................................................... 8
Purpose of the guidelines ............................................................................................................. 8

Guideline template ......................................................................................................................... 8

Rule ID 9
Sub ID Recommendations 9
MATLAB® Versions 9
Sub ID 9
Title 9
Description 9
Custom Parameters 10
Rational 10
See Also 10

2. Naming Conventions .......................................................................................... 11

General Conventions ................................................................................................................... 11
ar_0001: Usable characters for file names 11
ar_0002: Usable characters for folder names 12
jc_0241: Length restriction for model file names 13
jc_0242: Length restriction for folder names 13

Content Conventions ................................................................................................................... 14

jc_0201: Usable characters for subsystem names 14
jc_0231: Usable characters for block names 15
jc_0211: Usable characters for Inport block and Outport block 17
jc_0243: Length restriction for subsystem names 19
jc_0247: Length restriction for block names 19
jc_0244: Length restriction for Inport and Outport names 19
jc_0222: Usable characters for signal/bus names 20
jc_0232: Usable characters for parameter names 20
jc_0245: Length restriction for signal and bus names 21
jc_0246: Length restriction for parameter names 22
jc_0795: Usable characters for Stateflow data names 22
jc_0796: Length restriction for Stateflow data names 23
jc_0791: Duplicate data name definitions 23
jc_0792: Unused data 24
jc_0700: Unused data in Stateflow block 24
na_0019: Restricted Variable Names 25

3. Simulink............................................................................................................... 26
Configuration Parameters ........................................................................................................... 26
jc_0011: Optimization parameters for Boolean data types 26
jc_0642: Integer rounding mode setting 26
jc_0806: Detecting incorrect calculation results 27
jc_0021: Model diagnostic settings 28

Diagram appearance .................................................................................................................... 28

na_0004: Simulink model appearance settings 28
db_0043: Model font and font size 30
jm_0002: Block resizing 30
db_0142: Position of block names 31

3
 jc_0061: Display of block names 32
db_0140: Display of block parameters 33
jc_0603: Model description 34
jc_0604: Using Block Shadow 35
db_0081: Unconnected signals / blocks 36
db_0032: Signal line connections 37
db_0141: Signal flow in Simulink models 38
jc_0110: Direction of block 41
jc_0171: Clarification of connections between structural subsystems 42
jc_0602: Consistency in model element names 44
jc_0281: Trigger signal names 46
db_0143: Usable block types in model hierarchy 49
db_0144: Use of subsystems 50
jc_0653: Delay block layout in feedback loops 52
hd_0001: Prohibited Simulink sinks 53

Signal ............................................................................................................................................. 54
na_0010: Usage of vector and bus signals 54
jc_0008: Definition of signal names 54
jc_0009: Signal name propagation 55
db_0097: Position of labels for signals and busses 61
na_0008: Display of labels on signals 62
na_0009: Entry versus propagation of signal labels 63
db_0110: Block parameters 64
db_0112: Usage of index 64
jc_0645: Parameter definition for calibration 68
jc_0641: Sample time setting 69
jc_0643: Fixed-point setting 69
jc_0644: Type setting 70

Conditional subsystem relations ................................................................................................ 71

db_0146: Block layout in conditional subsystems 71
jc_0640: Initial value settings for Outport blocks in conditional subsystems 72
jc_0659: Usage restrictions of signal lines input to Merge blocks 74
na_0003: Usage of If blocks 75
jc_0656: Usage of Conditional Control blocks 76
jc_0657: Retention of output value based on conditional control flow blocks and Merge blocks 77

Operation blocks .......................................................................................................................... 81

na_0002: Appropriate usage of basic logical and numerical operations 81
jc_0121: Usage of add and subtraction blocks 84
jc_0610: Operator order for multiplication and division blocks 86
jc_0611: Input sign for multiplication and division blocks 88
jc_0794: Division in Simulink 88
jc_0805: Numerical operation block inputs 89
jc_0622: Usage of Fcn blocks 96
jc_0621: Usage of Logical Operator blocks 96
jc_0131: Usage of Relational Operator blocks 97
jc_0800: Comparing floating-point types in Simulink 98
jc_0626: Usage of Lookup Table blocks 98
jc_0623: Usage of continuous-time Delay blocks and discrete-time Delay blocks 99
jc_0624: Usage of Tapped Delay blocks/Delay blocks 100
jc_0627: Usage of Discrete-Time Integrator blocks 101
jc_0628: Usage of Saturation blocks 104
jc_0651: Implementing a type conversion 104

Other blocks ................................................................................................................................ 105

db_0042: Usage of Inport and Outport blocks 105
jc_0081: Inport/Outport block icon display 108
4
 na_0011: Scope of Goto/From blocks 109
jc_0161: Definition of Data Store Memory blocks 109
jc_0141: Usage of Switch blocks 109
jc_0650: Block input/output data type with switching function 110
jc_0630: Usage of Multiport Switch blocks 111
na_0020: Number of inputs to variant subsystems 113
na_0036: Default variant 114
na_0037: Use of single variable for variant condition 115

4. Stateflow............................................................................................................ 116
Stateflow blocks/data/events .................................................................................................... 116
db_0122: Stateflow and Simulink interface signals and parameters 116
db_0123: Stateflow port names 117
db_0125: Stateflow local data 118
db_0126: Defining Stateflow events 122
jc_0701: Usable number for first index 124
jc_0712: Execution timing for default transition path 126
jc_0722: Local data definition in parallel states 127

Stateflow diagram ....................................................................................................................... 128

jc_0797: Unconnected transitions / states / connective junctions 128
db_0137: States in state machines 130
jc_0721: Usage of parallel states 131
db_0129: Stateflow transition appearance 132
jc_0531: Default transition 135
jc_0723: Prohibited direct transition from external state to child state 142
jc_0751: Backtracking prevention in state transition 144
jc_0760: Starting point of internal transition 145
jc_0763: Usage of multiple internal transitions 147
jc_0762: Prohibition of state action and flow chart combination 150
db_0132: Transitions in flow charts 152
jc_0773: Unconditional transition of a flow chart 154
jc_0775: Terminating junctions in flow charts 157
jc_0738: Usage of Stateflow comments 158

Conditional transition / Action .................................................................................................. 160

jc_0790: Action language of Chart block 160
jc_0702: Use of named Stateflow parameters/constants 161
jm_0011: Pointers in Stateflow 162
jc_0491: Reuse of Stateflow data 163
jm_0012: Usage restrictions of events and broadcasting events 165
jc_0733: Order of state action types 169
jc_0734: Number of state action types 170
jc_0740: Limitation on use of exit state action 171
jc_0741: Timing to update data used in state chart transition conditions 172
jc_0772: Execution order and transition conditions of transition lines 173
jc_0753: Condition actions and transition actions in Stateflow 175
jc_0711: Division in Stateflow 177
db_0127: Limitation on MATLAB commands in Stateflow blocks 180
jc_0481: Use of hard equality comparisons for floating point numbers in Stateflow 182
na_0001: Standard usage of Stateflow operators 183
jc_0655: Prohibition of logical value comparison in Stateflow 186
jc_0451: Use of unary minus on unsigned integers 187
jc_0802: Prohibited use of implicit type casting in Stateflow 188
jc_0803: Passing values to library functions 190

Label description ........................................................................................................................ 192

5
 jc_0732: Distinction between state names, data names, and event names 192
jc_0730: Unique state name in Stateflow blocks 193
jc_0731: State name format 194
jc_0501: Line breaks in state labels 194
jc_0736: Uniform indentations in Stateflow blocks 195
jc_0739: Describing text inside states 197
jc_0770: Position of transition label 199
jc_0771: Comment position in transition labels 201
jc_0752: Condition action in transition label 204
jc_0774: Comments for through transition 204

Miscellaneous ............................................................................................................................. 205

jc_0511: Return values from a graphical function 205
jc_0804: Prohibited use of recursive calls with graphical functions 206
na_0042: Usage of Simulink functions 208
na_0039: Limitation on Simulink functions in Chart blocks 209

5. MATLAB ............................................................................................................ 210

MATLAB Appearance ................................................................................................................. 210
na_0018: Number of nested if/else and case statements 210
na_0025: MATLAB Function headers 210

MATLAB Data and Operations .................................................................................................. 211

na_0024: Shared data in MATLAB functions 211
na_0031: Definition of default enumerated value 213
na_0034: MATLAB Function block input/output settings 214

MATLAB Usage ........................................................................................................................... 214

na_0016: Source lines of MATALAB Functions 214
na_0017: Number of called function levels 214
na_0021: Strings in MATLAB functions 215
na_0022: Recommended patters for Switch/Case statements 216
jc_0801: Prohibited use of the /* and */ comment symbols 217

6. Glossary ............................................................................................................ 219

7. Determining Guideline Operation Rules ......................................................... 221

Process Definition and Development Environment ................................................................ 221

MATLAB/Simulink Version ........................................................................................................ 221

MATLAB/Simulink Settings ....................................................................................................... 221

Usable Blocks ............................................................................................................................. 221

Using Optimization and Configuration Parameters ................................................................ 222

Optimization parameters 222
Configuration Parameters 222

Applying Guidelines for a Project ............................................................................................. 222

Using the model analysis process when applying guidelines 222
Adoption of the guideline rule and process settings 223
Setting the guideline rule application field and the clarifying the exclusion condition 223
Parameter recommendations in the guidelines 223

6
 Verifying adherence to the guidelines 223
Modifying adherence to a guideline 223

8. Model Architecture Explanation ...................................................................... 225

Roles of Simulink and Stateflow ............................................................................................... 225

Hierarchical Structure of a Controller Model ........................................................................... 226

Types of Hierarchies 226
Top Layer 226
Function Layers and Sub-Function Layers 227
Schedule Layers 228
Control Flow Layers 229
Selection Layers 230
Data Flow Layers 231

Relationship between Simulink Models and Embedded Implementation ............................ 231

9. Appendices ....................................................................................................... 236

Simulink Functions .................................................................................................................... 236

Stateflow Functions ................................................................................................................... 239

Initialization ................................................................................................................................. 245

Miscellaneous ............................................................................................................................. 249

Modeling Knowledge / Usage Patterns .................................................................................... 251

Appendix 1: Simulink Patterns for If, elseif, else Constructs 251
Appendix 2: Simulink Patterns for Case Constructs 251
Appendix 3: Simulink Patterns for Logical Constructs 252
Appendix 4: Simulink Patterns for Vector Signals 253
Appendix 5: Using Switch and if-then-else Action Subsystems 255
Appendix 6: Use of if, elseif, else Action Subsystem to Replace Multiple Switches 256
Appendix 7: Usage Rules for Action Subsystems Using Conditional Control Flow 260
Appendix 8: Tests for Information From Errors 263
Appendix 9: Flow Chart Patterns for Conditions 264
Appendix 10: Flow Chart Patterns for Condition Actions 265
Appendix 11: Flow Chart Patterns for if Constructs 266
Appendix 12: Flow Chart Patterns for Case Constructs 268
Appendix 13: Flow Chart Patterns for Loop Constructs 268
Appendix 14: State Machine Patterns for Conditions 270
Appendix 15: State Machine Patterns for Transition Actions 270
Appendix 16: Limiting State Layering 271
Appendix 17: Number of States per Stateflow Container 271
Appendix 18: Function Call from Stateflow 272
Appendix 19: Function Types Available in Stateflow 272

7
1. Introduction
Purpose of the guidelines
MathWorks Advisory Board (MAB) guidelines stipulate important basic rules for modeling in Simulink
and Stateflow. The overall purpose of these modeling guidelines is to allow for a simple, common
understanding by modelers and consumers of control system models.

The main objectives of these guidelines are:

• Readability
 Improve graphical understandability
 Improve readability of functional analysis
 Prevent connection mistakes
 Comments, etc.
• Simulation and verification
 Mechanism to enable simulation
 Testability
• Code Generation
 Improve the efficiency of code generation (ROM, RAM efficiency)
 Ensure the robustness of generated code

Model runtime errors and recommendations that cannot be implemented are outside of the scope of
these rules.

The chapters of this document provide the following information:

Chapter 1 ― Intent of these guidelines and an overview of the guideline template.
Chapters 2 through 5 ― Guideline rules
Chapter 6 ― Glossary
Chapter 7 ― Process for evaluating and implementing guidelines for your project
Chapters 8 ― Model architecture and operations that are required for advanced users.
Chapter 9 ― Additional explanation and modelling information for Simulink/Stateflow functions, including
modeling patterns.

Guideline template
Guidelines are documented by using a standard template. Use of this template is recommended when
creating original guidelines.

Note: This template specifies the minimum requirements that are needed to understand a guideline.
New items can be added to the template as long as they do not duplicate existing information.

Rule ID: Title xx_nnnn: Title of the guideline (unique, short)

Sub ID NA-MAAB: x, y, z
Recommendations JMAAB: x, y, z
MATLAB® Version All
RX, RY, RZ
RX and earlier
RX and later
RX through RY
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
(Description of the guideline) (Parameter Name)
xn 【Correct】 (Correct image and comment in description)
【Incorrect】 (Error image and comment in description)
Rationale
8
Sub ID Description
xn (Rationale)
See Also
• XYZ

Rule ID
A rule ID, which is used to identify the guideline, consists of two lower case letters and a four-digit
number. The letter and number combination is separated by an underscore. For example, xx_nnnn. A
rule ID is permanent and will not change.
Note: The two-letters in the rule ID identify the guideline author. db, jm, hd, ar are used for Ver 1.0
guidelines. na and jc are used for guidelines created from Ver 2.0 to present.

Sub ID Recommendations
Specifies guideline sub IDs that are recommended for use by the NA-MAAB (North American MathWorks
Automotive Advisory Board) and JMAAB (Japan MathWorks Automotive Advisory Board) modeling
standards organizations. Each organization is a region-specific consortium of OEMs and suppliers; NA-
MAAB represents North America and Europe. JMAAB represents Japan.

MATLAB® Versions
MAB guidelines support all versions of MATLAB and Simulink products. When a rule applies only to a
specific version(s), the version is identified in the MATLAB Version field by using one of these formats:
• All — All versions of MATLAB
• RX, RY, RZ — A specific version of MATLAB
• RX and earlier — Versions of MATLAB until version RX
• RX and later — Versions of MATLAB from version RX to the current version
• RX through RY — Versions of MATLAB between RX and RY

Sub ID
Specifies the condition(s) of the rule. There can be multiple sub IDs per rule ID, which are designated as
either:
• Selectable ― Consist of one lower-case letter (alphabetical order). The choice of whether to
adopt a selectable sub ID is left to the user.
• Mutually Exclusive ― Consist of one lower case letter (alphabetical order) and a single-digit
number. When choosing to accept or reject a mutually exclusive sub ID, only one option can be
selected.

Example
xy_0000 → xy_0000a Selectable (user’s choice)
→ xy_0000b1 Mutually Exclusive (if using, choose from xy_0000b1 or xy_0000b2)
→ xy_0000b2 Mutually Exclusive (if using, choose from xy_0000b1 or xy_0000b2)

Title
The title is unique and provides a brief description of the guidelines.

Description
The description uses figures and tables to provide details for the guideline rules.

This table identifies characters that are used in the description

Description content Explanation Example
[] (square brackets) Block name [Outport]
Block parameter name
{ } (curly brackets) Stateflow parameter name {Display propagated signal}
Configuration parameter settings
9
 “ ” (double quotation marks) Parameter setting value “0”

Custom Parameters
For rules that include custom parameters, the chosen value is specific for the project with regard to the
item being described.
Example of objects and values are provided in the description field. However, a project’s processes,
condition of the control target, and skill levels of the engineers should be comprehensively evaluated
when specifying a custom parameter.

Rational
The rationale provides reasoning for the use of the guideline with regard to readability, verification
efficiency, efficiency of code after code generation, etc.

See Also
This optional section is only available in guidelines that have additional reference information that may
be helpful to better understand the guideline.

10
2. Naming Conventions
General Conventions
ar_0001: Usable characters for file names
Rule ID: Title ar_0001: Usable characters for file names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f, g
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f, g
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Only these character types shall be used in file names: File (extension)
 single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 single-byte underscore (_)

Line breaks, single-byte spaces, double-byte

characters, and control characters shall not be used.
File types that are checked for model and MATLAB
files shall be set in the project settings.
【Incorrect】
MAB Model.slx Single-byte spaces are used.
JMAAB 設定.m Double-byte characters are used.
NA-MAABModel.p
Symbol characters are used.
JMAAB(Model).mdl
b The file name shall not use numbers at the beginning. File (extension)
【Incorrect】
001_JMAABModel.slx
c The file name shall not use underscores at the File (extension)
beginning.
【Incorrect】
_JMAABModel.slx
d The file name shall not use an underscore at the end. File (extension)
【Incorrect】
MABModel_.slx
e The file name shall not use consecutive underscores. File (extension)
【Incorrect】
JMAAB__Model.slx
f The file name shall not consist solely of a single File (extension)
reserved MATLAB word
【Incorrect】
ans.slx
double.slx
week.slx
zero.slx, etc.
g File names on the MATLAB path shall not be identical. File (extension)
【Incorrect】
Files with the same name are saved to the folder that goes through the MATLAB path.

11
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability is impaired.
abcf
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.
de  Readability is impaired.
 If there are multiple files with the same name, the one higher on the path is loaded.
As a result, unnecessary files might be included.
g
 Readability is impaired.
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

ar_0002: Usable characters for folder names

Rule ID: Title ar_0002: Usable characters for folder names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Only these character types shall be used in folder -
names:
 Single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 Single-byte underscore (_)

Line breaks, single-byte spaces, double-byte

characters, and control characters shall not be used.
【Incorrect】

Symbol characters are used.

Single-byte spaces are used.
Double-byte characters are used.

b The folder name shall not use numbers at the -

beginning.
【Incorrect】

c The folder name shall not use underscores at the -

beginning.
【Incorrect】

d The folder name shall not use underscores at the end. -

12
 【Incorrect】

e The folder name shall not use consecutive -

underscores.
【Incorrect】

f The folder name shall not consist solely of a single -

reserved MATLAB word.
【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability is impaired.
abcdef
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

jc_0241: Length restriction for model file names

Rule ID: Title jc_0241: Length restriction for model file names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Model file name length shall be a maximum of 63 Maximum model file
characters (not including dots and extension). name length
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Possible that a long file name cannot be referred to in the model reference.

jc_0242: Length restriction for folder names

Rule ID: Title jc_0242: Length restriction for folder names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Folder name length shall be a maximum of 63 Maximum folder name

13
 characters. length
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Possible that the full path name cannot be display in the user interface.

Content Conventions
jc_0201: Usable characters for subsystem names
Rule ID: Title jc_0201: Usable characters for subsystem names
Sub ID Recommendations NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Only these character types shall be used in structural -
subsystem names:
 Single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 Single-byte underscore (_)

Line breaks, single-byte spaces, double-byte

characters, and control characters shall not be used.
【Incorrect】

Uses single-byte spaces.

Uses double-byte characters.

Uses symbol characters.

b A structural subsystem name shall not use numbers at -

the beginning.
【Incorrect】

c A structural subsystem name shall not use an -

underscore at the beginning.
【Incorrect】

14
 d A structural subsystem name shall not use an -
underscore at the end.
【Incorrect】

e A structural subsystem name shall not use consecutive -

underscores.
【Incorrect】

f A structural subsystem name shall not consist solely of -

a single reserved MATLAB word.
【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
abf  Cannot generate code using the configured structural subsystem name.
cde  May not be able to generate code using the configured structural subsystem name.

jc_0231: Usable characters for block names

Rule ID: Title jc_0231: Usable characters for block names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Only these character types shall be used for basic -
block names:
 Single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 Single-byte underscore (_)

Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]

15
 Line breaks and single-byte spaces shall not be
permitted when adding a new block name. However,
they shall be permitted when used initially as a block
name that is saved in the Simulink library.
Double-byte characters and control characters shall
not be used.
【Correct】
Block names registered in the Simulink library.

【Incorrect】

Single-byte spaces are used.

Double-byte characters are used.

Symbol characters are used.

b Basic block names shall not use numbers at the -

beginning.
Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]
【Incorrect】

c Basic block names shall not use underscores at the -

beginning.
Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]
【Incorrect】

d Basic block names shall not use underscores at the -

end.
Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]
16
 【Incorrect】

e Basic block names shall not use consecutive -

underscores.
Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]
【Incorrect】

f Basic block names shall not consist solely of a single -

reserved MATLAB word.
Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]
【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can make it difficult to maintain the integrity of the model
ab
and code.
ce  Readability is impaired.
 Readability is impaired.
d Underscores can be used to separate words. However, they are typically used
as word breaks and can cause misunderstanding in the description.
 Readability is impaired.
f
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

jc_0211: Usable characters for Inport block and Outport block

Rule ID: Title jc_0211: Usable characters for Inport block and Outport block
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Only these character types shall be used in [Inport] -
and [Outport] block names:
 Single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 Single-byte underscore (_)

Line breaks, single-byte spaces, double-byte

characters, and control characters shall not be used.
【Incorrect】

17
 Single-byte spaces are used.

Double-byte characters are used.

Symbol characters are used.

b [Inport] and [Outport] block names shall not use -

numbers at the beginning.
【Incorrect】

c [Inport] and [Outport] block names shall not use -

underscores at the beginning.
【Incorrect】

d [Inport] and [Outport] block names shall not use -

underscores at the end.
【Incorrect】

e [Inport] and [Outport] block names shall not use -

consecutive underscores.
【Incorrect】

[Inport] and [Outport] block names shall not consist -

solely of a single reserved MATLAB word.
【Incorrect】
f

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can make it difficult to maintain the integrity of the model
ab
and code.
18
 ce Readability is impaired.
 Readability is impaired.
d  Underscores can be used to separate words. However, they are typically used
as word breaks and can cause misunderstanding in the description.
 Readability is impaired.
f
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

jc_0243: Length restriction for subsystem names

Rule ID: Title jc_0243: Length restriction for subsystem names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Structural subsystem name length shall be a Maximum subsystem
maximum of 63 characters. name length
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0247: Length restriction for block names

Rule ID: Title jc_0247: Length restriction for block names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Basic block name length shall be a maximum of 63 Maximum block name
characters. length
Exception: [Inport] and [Outport]
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0244: Length restriction for Inport and Outport names

Rule ID: Title jc_0244: Length restriction for Inport and Outport names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Inport] and [Outport] name length shall be a Maximum Inport block
maximum of 63 characters. name length
Maximum Outport block
19
 name length
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0222: Usable characters for signal/bus names

Rule ID: Title jc_0222: Usable characters for signal/bus names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Only these character types shall be used in signal and -
bus names:
 Single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 Single-byte underscore (_)

Line breaks, single-byte spaces, double-byte

characters, and control characters shall not be used.
b Signal and bus names shall not use numbers at the -
beginning.
c The signal or bus name shall not use underscores at -
the beginning.
d Signal and bus names shall not use underscores at the -
end.
e Signal and bus names shall not use consecutive -
underscores.
f Signal and bus names shall not consist solely of a -
single reserved MATLAB word.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can make it difficult to maintain the integrity of the model
ab
and code.
ce  Readability is impaired.
 Readability is impaired.
d Underscores can be used to separate words. However, they are typically used
as word breaks and can cause misunderstanding in the description..
 Readability is impaired.
f
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

jc_0232: Usable characters for parameter names

Rule ID: Title jc_0232: Usable characters for parameter names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: d, e
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
20
 Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
1 1
a Only these
V6_signal12_Contrl1_EgRpm1 character types shall be used in parameter -
In1 Out1
names:
 Single-byte alphanumeric characters (a-z, A-Z, 0-9)
 Single-byte underscore (_)

Line break, single-byte space, double-byte

characters, and control characters shall not be used.
b The parameter name shall not use numbers at the -
beginning.
c The parameter name shall not use underscores at the -
beginning.
d The parameter name shall not use underscores at the -
end.
e The parameter name shall not use consecutive -
underscores.
f The parameter name shall not consist solely of a -
single reserved MATLAB word.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can make it difficult to maintain the integrity of the model
ab
and code.
ce  Readability is impaired.
 Readability is impaired.
d Underscores can be used to separate words. However, they are typically used
as word breaks and can cause misunderstanding in the description.
f  Readability is impaired. Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

jc_0245: Length restriction for signal and bus names

Rule ID: Title jc_0245: Length restriction for signal and bus names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Signal and bus name length shall be a maximum of 63 Maximum signal name
characters. length
Maximum bus name
length
【Correct】

【Correct】
The hierarchical signal name length
21
 (full path bus_all.bus_name_finla.bus_name2.abcdefghijklmn) is less than or
equal to 63 characters.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0246: Length restriction for parameter names

Rule ID: Title jc_0246: Length restriction for parameter names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Parameter name length shall be a maximum of 63 Maximum parameter
characters. name length
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0795: Usable characters for Stateflow data names

Rule ID: Title jc_0795: Usable characters for Stateflow data names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
22
 a Stateflow data {name} shall not use underscores at the -
beginning.
b Stateflow data {name} shall not use underscores at the -
end.
c Stateflow data {name} shall not use consecutive -
underscores.
d Stateflow data {name} shall not consist solely of a -
single reserved MATLAB word.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability is impaired.
abcd
 Deviation from the rule may result in unintended code behavior.

jc_0796: Length restriction for Stateflow data names

Rule ID: Title jc_0796: Length restriction for Stateflow data names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Stateflow data {name} shall be a maximum of 63 Stateflow data name
characters. character limit
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability is impaired.
a
 Deviation from the rule can result in unintended code behavior

jc_0791: Duplicate data name definitions

Rule ID: Title jc_0791: Duplicate data name definitions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Data name definitions shall not be duplicated in the base -
workspace and model workspace.
b Data names shall not be duplicated in the base Types of data dictionary
workspace and data dictionary (sldd).
c Data name definitions shall not be duplicated in the Types of data dictionary
model workspace and data dictionary (sldd).
Rationale
Sub ID Description
abc  Duplicated data name can cause unintended model behavior.

23
jc_0792: Unused data
Rule ID: Title jc_0792: Unused data
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The data dictionary (sldd) shall define only the data that Types of data dictionary
is used in the Simulink or Stateflow model.
b The model workspace shall define only the data that is -
used in the Simulink or Stateflow model.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
ab  Unused data can affect maintainability and operability.

jc_0700: Unused data in Stateflow block

Rule ID: Title jc_0700: Unused data in Stateflow block
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Configuration parameter {Unused data, events, -
messages} shall be set to “Warning” or “Error” to prevent
unused Stateflow data, events, and messages in the
Stateflow block.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Unused data is defined.

Rationale
Sub ID Description

24
  Unused data and events in the Stateflow block can affect maintainability and
reusability.
a
 Affects code as a declarative statement concerning unused data is inserted into the
generated code.

na_0019: Restricted Variable Names

Rule ID: Title na_0019: Restricted Variable Names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Reserved C variable names shall not be used as variable -
names in MATLAB code.
For example, avoid using const, TRUE, FALSE,
infinity, nil, double, single, or enum in MATLAB
code.
b Variable names that conflict with MATLAB Functions, -
such as conv, shall not be used.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability of the code.
ab
 Code generation may not be possible.

25
3. Simulink
Configuration Parameters
jc_0011: Optimization parameters for Boolean data types
Rule ID: Title jc_0011: Optimization parameters for Boolean data types
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Configuration parameter {Implement logic signals as -
Boolean data (vs. double)} shall be selected so that
optimization parameters are activated for logic signals.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a Using Boolean data can reduce RAM capacity when using C code.

jc_0642: Integer rounding mode setting

Rule ID: Title jc_0642: Integer rounding mode setting
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When block signal attribute parameter {Integer rounding -
mode} is set to “Simplest”, configuration parameter
{Production hardware signed integer division rounds to}
shall be set to “Floor” or “Zero”.
【Correct】
{Production hardware signed integer division rounds to} is set to “Zero”.

26
 【Incorrect】
Configuration parameter {Production hardware signed integer division rounds to} is
set to “Undefined”.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Prevents unintended rounding of divided signed integers.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see MISRA AC SLSF 008B

jc_0806: Detecting incorrect calculation results

Rule ID: Title jc_0806: Detecting incorrect calculation results
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub Description Custom Parameter
ID
a Configuration parameter {Division by singular matrix} -
shall be set to “Error”.
b Configuration parameter {Inf or NaN block output} shall -
be set to “Error”.
c For R2010b to R2014a, configuration parameter {Detect -
overflow} shall be set to “Error”.

27
 For R2014b and later, these configuration parameters
shall be set to “Error”:
• {Wrap on overflow}
• {Saturate on overflow}
Rationale
Sub Description
ID
abc  Allows detection of operations with invalid values.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see hisl_0005c

jc_0021: Model diagnostic settings

Rule ID: Title jc_0021: Model diagnostic settings
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a These configuration parameters shall be set to “warning” -
or “error”:
• {Algebraic loop}
• {Minimize algebraic loop}
• {Multitask rate transition}
• {Inf or NaN block output}
• {Duplicate data store names}
• {Unconnected block input ports}
• {Unconnected block output ports}
• {Unconnected line}
• {Unspecified bus object at root Outport block}
• {Element name mismatch}
• (R2017a and earlier) {Mux blocks used to create
bus signals}
• (R2012a and earlier) {Invalid function-call
connection}
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves model workflow.
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

Diagram appearance
na_0004: Simulink model appearance settings
Rule ID: Title na_0004: Simulink model appearance settings
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

28
 a Simulink model appearance settings shall conform with Display option
the project settings.
Example:

View Options Setting

Model Browser unchecked

Screen color white

Status Bar checked

Toolbar checked

Zoom factor Normal (100%)

Block Display Options Setting

Background color white

Foreground color black

Execution Context unchecked

Library Links none

Linearization Indicators checked

Ref. Model I/O Mismatch unchecked

Ref. Model Version unchecked

Sample Time Colors unchecked

Execution Order unchecked

Signal Display Options Setting

Base Data Types unchecked

Alias Data Types unchecked

Signal Dimensions unchecked

Storage Class unchecked

Log & Testpoint checked

Viewers checked

Nonscalar Signals checked

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Standard model appearance improves readability.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see MISRA AC SLSF 023A

29
db_0043: Model font and font size
Rule ID: Title db_0043: Model font and font size
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a  Block name {font} and {font style} shall conform with the Font
project settings. Font style
 Signal name {font} and {font style} shall conform with
the project settings.
b  Block name font {size} shall conform with the project Font size
settings.
 Signal name font {size} shall conform with the project
settings.
c  State labels and box name {font} and {font style} shall Font
conform with the project settings. Font style
 Transition labels and comment {font} and {font style}
shall conform with the project settings.
d  State labels and box name font {size} shall conform with Font size
the project settings.
 Transition labels and comment font {size} shall conform
with the project settings.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
ac  Standard fonts improve readability.
bd  Standard font size improves readability.
See Also
 Sub ID c and d, see MISRA AC SLSF 050B

jm_0002: Block resizing

Rule ID: Title jm_0002: Block resizing
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Blocks shall be sized so that the block icon is visible and -
recognizable.
【Correct】
The block icon is visible and recognizable.

30
 【Incorrect】
The block is too small, so the icon is neither visible nor recognizable.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When a block is too small, the text and symbol displayed by the icon can be difficult
a
to see, which impairs readability.

db_0142: Position of block names

Rule ID: Title db_0142: Position of block names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The block name shall be positioned below the block. -
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

31
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Consistent placement of the block name improves model readability because it is
a
easier to determine which name corresponds to the block.

jc_0061: Display of block names

Rule ID: Title jc_0061: Display of block names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Block names shall be hidden for blocks that meet the Blocks with a clear type
following criteria: due their appearance
 Block type is evident from its visual appearance
 Uses the default block name (including instances
where only a number has been added at the end)
For blocks that do not meet the criteria, their name shall
be displayed.
Example of block names that are displayed

Example of hidden block names

32
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Improves model readability.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see MISRA AC SLSF 026A

db_0140: Display of block parameters

Rule ID: Title db_0140: Display of block parameters
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Block annotation shall display the block parameters that Block Parameters
are defined by the project.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

33
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Readability improves when block parameters are displayed.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see MISRA AC SLSF 026E

jc_0603: Model description

Rule ID: Title jc_0603: Model description
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The model layer shall include a description of the layer. Description object
The layers that require descriptions are defined (by (Block type, etc.)
function and layer type) in the project. Layer being described
【Correct】
Model layer includes a description.

【Incorrect】
The layer does not include a description.

34
 b The format of the layer description shall be consistent in Model description format
the model.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When a description is not included, the readability of the control specifications is
a
reduced. Usability, maintainability, and portability also decreases.
b  Readability is impaired when the description format is not consistent.
See Also
 Sub ID a and b, see MISRA AC SLSF 022

jc_0604: Using Block Shadow

Rule ID: Title jc_0604: Using Block Shadow
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Block format property {Shadow} shall not be selected. -
【Correct】
A drop shadow is not applied to the blocks.

【Incorrect】
The block has a drop shadow.

35
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Difficult to determine if a port exists because it is hidden by the shading, which
a
impairs readability.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see MISRA AC SLSF 024A

db_0081: Unconnected signals / blocks

Rule ID: Title db_0081: Unconnected signals / blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The model shall not have signal lines that are not -
connected.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

36
 b The model shall not have subsystems or basic blocks -
that are not connected.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Unconnected lines can have adverse effects, such as simulation errors or failure to
ab
generate code.

db_0032: Signal line connections

Rule ID: Title db_0032: Signal line connections
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2, b, c, e
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2, b, c, d, e
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Vertical and horizontal signal lines shall not cross over -
one another.
a2 (R2014a and later) When vertical and horizontal signal -
lines must cross, Simulink editor preference {Line
crossing style} shall be set to “Line hop”.
【Correct】
The vertical line hops over the horizontal line.

37
 b Signal lines shall not overlap with other signal lines. -
c Signal lines shall not cross over blocks. -
d Signal lines shall not split into more than two sub lines at -
a single branching point.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

e Signal lines shall be resized vertically or horizontally as -

required for the model layout.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a1  Difficult to understand the relationships between blocks when signal lines cross.
A2  In R2014a and later, the difference between crossing and branching is clarified.
B  Difficult to understand the relationships between blocks when signal lines overlap..
C  Difficult to understand the relationships between blocks when signal lines cross.
D  Difficult to understand the relationships between blocks.
E  Consistent application of signal lines improves readability.

db_0141: Signal flow in Simulink models

Rule ID: Title db_0141: Signal flow in Simulink models
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Signals shall flow from left to right. -

Exception:
Feedback loops can flow from right to left.
【Correct】

38
 【Incorrect】

b Parallel blocks or subsystems shall be arranged from top -

to bottom.
【Correct】

39
 【Incorrect】

c Signal lines shall not bend multiple times unnecessarily. -

【Correct】

【Incorrect】

40
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
abc  Deviation from the rules can impair readability.

jc_0110: Direction of block

Rule ID: Title jc_0110: Direction of block
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Blocks shall be arranged so the output is to the right. -

Exception:
When [Delay] is used in a feedback loop, the output can
be to the left.
【Correct】
The block is arranged so that the output is to the right. The output of [Delay] is to the
left.

41
 【Incorrect】
The block is arranged so the output is to the left.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
Signal flow can be difficult to understand if the direction of the signals is not
a
consistent.

jc_0171: Clarification of connections between structural subsystems

Rule ID: Title jc_0171: Clarification of connections between structural
subsystems
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a A minimum of one signal line shall connect two structural -
subsystems.
When a two-way signal connection exists between two
structural subsystems (A and B), each direction shall be
connected to at least one signal line.

Exception:
Using [Goto] and [From] to create buses or connect
signals to [Merge].
【Correct】

42
 【Incorrect】

b Signals that are not used within a structural subsystem -

shall be input to a structural subsystem. These signals
shall not be output to other structural subsystems or
basic blocks.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Signals that are not used in the subsystem are connected to avoid crossing of signal
lines.

43
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Clarifies structural subsystem connections and execution order.
 Eliminating unnecessary connections clarifies the relationship between connections.
B
 Deviation from the rule can cause to confusion due to unused input/output signals.

jc_0602: Consistency in model element names

Rule ID: Title jc_0602: Consistency in model element names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a These names shall match when they are directly -
connected by using signal lines.
 [Inport] block name
 [Outport] block name
 Structural subsystem input port label name
 Structural subsystem output port label name
 [From] tag name
 [Goto] tag name
 Signal line signal name

Exception 1:
A signal line that connects to one of the following

44
 subsystem types can have a name that differs from that
of the subsystem port label:
 Subsystems linked to a library
 Reusable subsystems

Exception 2:
When a combination of [Inport], [Outport], and other
blocks have the same name, use a suffix or prefix for the
[Inport] and [Outport] blocks. Any prefix or suffix can be
used for ports, but they must be consistent. For example,
[Inport] uses “in” and [Outport] uses “out”.
Note: [Inport] and [Outport] names and signal names
must have different names.
【Correct】
Names of model elements that connect directly to signal lines are consistent.

【Incorrect】
Names of model elements that connect directly to signal lines are inconsistent.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Prevent misconnected signal lines.
 Readability is impaired.
a
 Deviation from the rule can make it difficult to maintain the integrity of the model and
code.
See Also
 Sub ID a, see MISRA AC SLSF 036C

45
jc_0281: Trigger signal names
Rule ID: Title jc_0281: Trigger signal names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2/a3/a4, b1/b2/b3/b4
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 The name of the conditional input block at the destination -
shall include the name of the block at the origin of the
trigger signal
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

a2 The name of the conditional subsystem at the destination -

shall include the name of the block at the origin of the
trigger signal.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

46
a3 The name of the conditional input block at the destination -
shall include the name of the trigger signal.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

a4 The name of the conditional subsystem at the destination -

shall include the name of the trigger signal.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

b1 The name of the Stateflow block event at the destination -

shall include the name of the block at the origin of the
trigger signal.
【Correct】

47
 【Incorrect】

b2 The name of [Chart] at the destination shall include the -

name of the block at the origin of the trigger signal.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

b3 The name of the Stateflow block event at the destination -

shall include the name of the trigger signal.
【Correct】

48
 【Incorrect】

b4 The name of the trigger signal and the [Chart] name at -

the destination must include the same name. The name
of [Chart] at the destination shall include the name of the
trigger signal.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a1a2a3  Reduces connection mistakes.
a4b1b2  Increases understanding of the relationship between the origin of the trigger signal
b3b4 and the destination.
 See Also
 Sub ID a1, a2, a3, a4, see MISRA AC SLSF 026C

db_0143: Usable block types in model hierarchy

Rule ID: Title db_0143: Usable block types in model hierarchy
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Model levels shall use only the block types that are Layer type
defined for the layer type. Block type
49
 For information on layer types, see Appendix 8.2 -
Hierarchical Structure of a Controller Model. Clearly
defined layer types restrict the number of blocks that can
be used.

Block restrictions:
 (R2011a and earlier) [Enable] cannot be used at the
root level of the model.
 Action ports are not permitted at the root level of a
model.
Layer restrictions:
 Data flow layers that are used for basic blocks only.
 Other than data flow layers, layers can include blocks that are used for structural
subsystems and all other layers.

Blocks that can be used for all layers include:

• [Inport]
• [Outport]
• [Mux]
• [Demux]
• [Bus Selector]
• [Bus Creator]
• [Selector]
• [Ground]
• [Terminator]
• [From]
• [Goto]
• [Merge]
• [Unit Delay]
• [Rate Transition]
• [Data Type Conversion]
• [Data Store Memory]
• [If]
• [Switch Case]
• [Function-Call Generator]
• [Function-Call Split]

Rationale
Sub ID Description
Readability is impaired when subsystems and basic blocks are used in the same
a
layer.

db_0144: Use of subsystems

Rule ID: Title db_0144: Use of subsystems
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Blocks in a Simulink diagram shall be grouped together -
into subsystems based on functional decomposition of

50
 the algorithm, or portion thereof, represented in the
diagram.

Avoid grouping blocks into subsystems primarily for the

purpose of saving space in the diagram. Each subsystem
in the diagram should represent a unit of functionality that
is required to accomplish the purpose of the model or
submodel.
Blocks can also be grouped together based on
behavioral variants or timing.

When implementing a subsystem to alleviate readability

issues, use a virtual subsystem.
【Correct】
Subsystems are divided by functional unit.

【Incorrect】
Subsystems are not divided by functional unit.

b A virtual subsystem shall be used when processing order -

and code generation does not need to be taken into
consideration.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Avoid grouping blocks into subsystems primarily for the purpose of saving space in
a the diagram.
 It can be difficult to reuse the subsystem.
 As atomic subsystems are considered a single process that influences processing
b order and code optimization, they can be misinterpreted when used other than as
intended.

51
jc_0653: Delay block layout in feedback loops
Rule ID: Title jc_0653: Delay block layout in feedback loops
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Delay] in feedback loops across subsystems shall reside -
in the hierarchy that describes the feedback loop.
【Correct】
[Delay] resides in the hierarchy that describes the feedback loop.

【Incorrect】
[Delay] resides in a subsystem that is nested within the hierarchy which describes
the feedback loop.

52
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Prevents double placement of [Delay].
 Clarifying the extent of diversion improves reusability.
a
 Improves testability; it is difficult to test a subsystem that contains [Delay] on its own
because past values cannot be entered directly.

hd_0001: Prohibited Simulink sinks

Rule ID: Title hd_0001: Prohibited Simulink sinks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Control algorithm models shall be designed from discrete -
blocks.
[Scope] and [Display] can be used in the model diagram.
These sink blocks shall not be used:
• [To File]
• [To Workspace]
• [Stop Simulation]

Consider using signal logging and the Signal and Scope

Manager for data logging and viewing requirements.
(R2019b and later) To log and manage the signal, click
the Simulation tab and, under the Prepare gallery,
select the appropriate tool.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability and model simulation.
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

53
 Signal
na_0010: Usage of vector and bus signals
Rule ID: Title na_0010: Usage of vector and bus signals
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Mux] and [Demux] blocks shall be used when generating -
and decomposing vectors.
b [Mux] inputs shall be scalars and vectors. -
c [BusCreator] and [BusSelector] shall be used when -
generating and decomposing busses.
d Busses shall connect to blocks that support busses. -
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Prevents issues that are caused by combining vector and bus signals.
abcd
See “Preventing the mixing of busses and Mux” for additional information.
See Also
 Sub ID a, b, c, d, see MISRA AC SLSF 015A,B

jc_0008: Definition of signal names

Rule ID: Title jc_0008: Definition of signal names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Signal names shall be defined for signal lines that output Definition of an important
from important blocks. The signal name shall be provided block
once, at the origin of the signal line.
A label shall be used to display defined signal names.

Important blocks:
An important block is defined by the system input and
output of meaningful results, not by its type.
【Correct】

54
 【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Defining the signal name and displaying the label for the output of meaningful results
a
from important blocks improves the readability of the model.

jc_0009: Signal name propagation

Rule ID: Title jc_0009: Signal name propagation
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub Description Custom Parameter
ID
a When defining the signal name for a signal that extends -
across a hierarchy, signal property {Show propagated
signals} shall be selected so that propagated signal
names are displayed.
However, when one of the following conditions is met, do
not select {Show propagated signals}:
 In a subsystem with a library
 In subsystems where reusable functions are set
 A signal name is not set at the [Bus Creator] outport
signal.
【Correct】
{Show propagated signals} is selected, displaying the propagated signal names.

55
【Incorrect】
{Show propagated signals} is not selected, therefore signal names are not displayed.

Signals that connect to [Bus Creator] and [Outport] do not have names, but {Show
propagated signals} is selected for signals that connect to [Subsystem] and [Outport].

56
 Signals that connect to [Bus Creator] and [Outport] have names, but signals that connect
to [Subsystem] and [Outport] also have names.

b Signal property {Show propagated signals} shall be -

selected for these blocks so that propagated signal
names of the signal output are displayed:
 [From]
 [Signal Specification]
 [Function-Call Split]
【Correct】
{Show propagated signals} is selected, displaying the propagated signal names.

57
Signals that connect to [Inport] and [Goto] do not have names, therefore {Show
propagated signals} does not need to be selected.

Signals that connect to [Inport] and [Goto] do not have names, therefore signals that
connect to [From] and [Gain] can be left unnamed.

58
【Incorrect】
Signals that connect to [Inport] and [Goto] do not have names, but {Show propagated
signals} is selected for signals that connect to [From] and [Gain].

Regardless of whether signals are propagated, {Show propagated signals} is not

selected.

Signals that connect to [Inport] and [Goto] have names, but signals that connect to [From]
and [Gain] are named.

Signals that connect to [Gain] and [Signal Specification] do not have names, but {Show
propagated signals} is selected for signals that connect to [Signal Specification] and
[Outport].

Regardless of whether signals are propagated, {Show propagated signals} is not

selected.

Signals that connect to [Gain] and [Signal Specification] have names, but signals that
connect to [Signal Specification] and [Outport] have names.

Signals that connect to [Function-Call Generator] and [Function-Call Split] do not have
names, but {Show propagated signals} is selected for signals that connect to [Function-
Call Split] and [Function-Call Subsystem].
59
Regardless of whether signals are propagated, {Show propagated signals} is not
selected.

Signals that connect to [Function-Call Generator] and [Function-Call Split] have names
and signals that connect to [Function-Call Split] and [Function-Call Subsystem] are also
named.

60
 Rationale
Sub Description
ID
 Prevents signal line connection mistakes.
ab
 Prevents signal line name mistakes.

db_0097: Position of labels for signals and busses

Rule ID: Title db_0097: Position of labels for signals and busses
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Signal line labels and bus labels shall not overlap other -
labels, signal lines, or blocks.
【Correct】
The signal line labels and bus labels do not overlap other labels, signal lines, or
blocks.

【Incorrect】
The signal line labels and bus labels overlap other labels, signal lines, or blocks.

b Signal line labels and bus labels shall be positioned -

below signal lines.
【Correct】
Signal line labels and bus labels are below signal lines.

【Incorrect】
Signal line labels and bus labels are above the signal line.

61
 c Signal line labels and bus labels shall be positioned at -
the origin of the connection.
【Correct】
Signal line labels and bus labels are positioned at the origin of the signal line
connection.

【Incorrect】
Signal line labels and bus labels are positioned at the destination of the signal line
connection.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Adherence to this rule prevents confusion with corresponding names, signal lines,
a
and busses, which improves readability of the model.
 Consistent label position prevents confusion with corresponding labels, signal lines,
bc
and busses, which improves the readability of the model.

na_0008: Display of labels on signals

Rule ID: Title na_0008: Display of labels on signals
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a A label shall be displayed on the signal line originating -
from these blocks:
• [Inport]
• [From] (see exception)
• [Subsystem] or [Stateflow] chart (see exception)
• [Bus Selector] (the tool forces this to happen)
• [Demux]
• [Selector]
• [Data Store Read] (see exception)

62
 • [Constant] (see exception)
• [Chart]

Exception: When the signal label is visible in the

originating block icon display, the signal does not need
not to have the label displayed unless the signal label is
needed elsewhere due to a destination-based rule.
b A label shall be displayed on a signal line that connects -
(either directly or by way of a basic block that performs a
non-transformative operation) to these destination blocks:
• [Outport]
• [Goto]
• [Data Store Write]
• [Bus Creator]
• [Mux]
• [Subsystem]
• [Chart]
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability, model simulation, and workflow.
a
 Code generation may not be possible.
b  Improves readability, model simulation, and workflow.

na_0009: Entry versus propagation of signal labels

Rule ID: Title na_0009: Entry versus propagation of signal labels
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
When a label is displayed for a signal, the following rules define whether that label is
created there (entered directly on the signal) or propagated from its true source
(inherited from elsewhere in the model by using the ‘<’ character).

Signal labels shall be entered for signals that originate from:

• [Inport] at the root (top) level of a model
• Basic blocks that perform a transformative operation (For the purpose of
interpreting this rule only, the [Bus Creator], [Mux], and [Selector] are
included among the blocks that perform transformative operations.)

a Signal labels shall be propagated for signals that originate from:

• [Inport] in a nested subsystem
Exception: When the nested subsystem is a library subsystem, a label can be
entered on the signal coming from [Inport] to accommodate reuse of the
library block.
• Basic blocks that perform a non-transformative operation
 [Subsystem] or Stateflow [Chart]
Exception: When the connection originates from the output of a library subsystem
block, a new label can be entered on the signal to accommodate readability.
 The result of executing a MATLAB command is reflected in the code, which makes
consistency between the model and code difficult to maintain.

63
db_0110: Block parameters
Rule ID: Title db_0110: Block parameters
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Block parameters shall not be used to describe: -
 Operation expressions
 Data type conversion
 Selection of rows or columns
 MATLAB commands
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Operation expressions, data type conversion, or row or column selection become a
magic number in generated code, which makes consistency between the model and
code difficult to maintain. Adjusting parameters also becomes difficult.
a
 Describing the calculation formula within the block decreases readability.
 The result of executing a MATLAB command is reflected in the code, which makes
consistency between the model and code difficult to maintain.

db_0112: Usage of index

Rule ID: Title db_0112: Usage of index
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 A vector signal shall use a 1-based index mode. -
【Correct】
A uniform 0-based index mode is used.

64
【Incorrect】
A uniform index mode is not used.

65
a2 A vector signal shall use a 1-based index mode. -
【Correct】
A uniform 1-based index mode is used.

66
【Incorrect】
A uniform index mode is not used. (Same as db_0112, Sub ID_a1).

67
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a1a2 Logic is easier to understand when using a uniform index mode.

jc_0645: Parameter definition for calibration

Rule ID: Title jc_0645: Parameter definition for calibration
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Block parameters that are targets of calibration shall be -
defined as named constants

Examples of parameters that are outside of the

calibration target include:
 Initial value parameter 0
 Increment, decrement 1
【Correct】

68
 【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
A literal constant in the model will propagate as a literal constant in the generated
a
code, making calibration impossible.

jc_0641: Sample time setting

Rule ID: Title jc_0641: Sample time setting
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Block parameter {Sample time} shall be set to “-1” -
(inherited).

Exceptions include:
 [Inport]
 [Outport]
 Atomic subsystem
 Blocks with state variables, such as [Unit Delay] and
[Memory]
 Signal conversion blocks, such as [Data Type
Conversion] and [Rate Transition]
 Blocks that do not have external inputs, such as
[Constant]
 [Chart]
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Discrepancies can occur in the processing of the model because of different
simulation times.
a
 Maintainability of the model deteriorates when a specific sample time is set for each
block individually.

jc_0643: Fixed-point setting

Rule ID: Title jc_0643: Fixed-point setting

69
 Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When block parameters {Data type} is a fixed-point (fixdt) -
setting and {Scaling} is “Slope and bias”, parameter
{Bias} shall be set to “0”.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
When the bias in a model is not uniform:
 Behavior of the model is impossible to determine by its appearance.
a
 Unintended overflows and underflows occur.
 Results in wasteful operation and deterioration of code efficiency/computing load.

jc_0644: Type setting

Rule ID: Title jc_0644: Type setting
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When the data type is set by a data object, a block or -
Stateflow data dictionary shall not be used to set the data
type.

Exceptions (see rationale for more information):

 Inside a reusable function
 [Data Type Conversion]
 Data types set by using “fixdt”
 Boolean type, double type
【Correct】
0611
, not by the block.

70
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When the data type is set in a block and it differs from the type setting in the data
object, it can be difficult to determine which setting is correct. This can impair
readability.
 When the type is set in the block,
 —maintainability is affected when the signal line type changes.

Exceptions:
 Inside a reusable function
When all block structures are identical, differences between input/output data type
can result in different C source code that is not reusable. For reusable functions,
data types of input/output blocks should be specified at the subsystem level.

 [Data Type Conversion]

a
This block is used to explicitly set the data type.

 Data types set by using “fixdt”

When fixed-point is selected, data type must be set individually because each block
can have different data points. In this scenario, it is impossible to use only the data
object to set the data type.

 Boolean type, double type

Some block types must be set to Boolean.
Double type is generally used in plant models and for Rapid Control Prototyping
(RCP), therefore it is not within scope of this rule.
Embedded software uses double type in specific situations. Use caution when
configuring the settings on these blocks to minimize the use of double type.

Conditional subsystem relations

db_0146: Block layout in conditional subsystems
Rule ID: Title db_0146: Block layout in conditional subsystems
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All

71
 Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Conditional input blocks shall be positioned at the top of -
the subsystem.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

b The position of these blocks shall be defined by the Location layout

project:
 [For Each]
 [For Iterator]
 [While Iterator]
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Unifying the internal and external layout of the conditional subsystem improves
ab
readability of the model.

jc_0640: Initial value settings for Outport blocks in conditional subsystems

Rule ID: Title jc_0640: Initial value settings for Outport blocks in conditional
subsystems
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All

72
Rule
Sub Description Custom Parameter
ID
a When both conditions are met for a conditional -
subsystem:
- Includes a block with initial conditions (i.e.
[Constant] and [Delay])
- Connects to [Outport]
The initial condition shall be defined on [Outport].

However, when the output signal from a conditional

subsystem is connected to [Merge], the initial condition
shall be defined on [Merge].
【Correct】
The initial condition is defined.

【Incorrect】

73
 The initial condition is undefined.

Rationale
Sub Description
ID
a  The model may not behave as intended when the initial condition is unclear.

jc_0659: Usage restrictions of signal lines input to Merge blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0659: Usage restrictions of signal lines input to Merge blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

74
 a Only conditional subsystem output signals shall input to -
[Merge].
【Correct】
Conditional subsystem output signal is input to [Merge].

【Incorrect】
0

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Prevents the simulation from proceeding as intended.

na_0003: Usage of If blocks

Rule ID: Title na_0003: Usage of If blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a For [If], the {If expression} and {Elseif expression} shall -
be used only to define input signals.
【Correct】

75
 The {If expression} only defines the input variables.

【Incorrect】
The {If expression} defines a comparison operation.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Visual comprehension of control conditions is easier when logical operations are
described outside of [If].
a
 Describing logical operations outside of [If] allows verification to focus on the logical
operation.

jc_0656: Usage of Conditional Control blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0656: Usage of Conditional Control blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a These block parameters shall be used to make all actions -
in the conditions explicit:
 For [If], select {Show else condition}
 For [Switch Case], select {Show default case}
【Correct】
Default behavior
76
 【Incorrect】
No default behavior

Rationale
Sub ID Description
Determining whether there is pointless processing or if something is missing from the
a design (such as a missing description) is easier when the processing of exceptions
(else, default) is explicitly set in the model .

jc_0657: Retention of output value based on conditional control flow blocks and Merge
blocks
Rule ID: Title jc_0657: Retention of output value based on Conditional Control
Flow blocks and Merge blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Unused action ports shall connect to [Terminator] when -
these conditions are met:
- Past value is retained
- [Merge] and a conditional flow block, such as [If]
or [Switch Case], are used to switch functions.
77
【Correct】
[If] example

[Switch Case] example

【Incorrect】
[If] example

78
 [Switch Case] example

a2 A feedback loop using [Delay] shall be implemented -

when these conditions are met:
- Past value is retained
- [Merge] and a conditional flow block, such as [If]
or [Switch Case], are used to switch functions.
【Correct】
[if] example

79
 [Switch Case] example

【Incorrect】
[If] example

80
 [Switch Case] example

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves code efficiency.
a1  Connections to [Terminator] can be used when past values are held other than by
the default (else).
a2  Retaining past values is explicit.

Operation blocks
na_0002: Appropriate usage of basic logical and numerical operations
Rule ID: Title na_0002: Appropriate usage of basic logical and numerical
operations
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
81
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Logical signals shall not connect to blocks that operate Blocks receiving
on numerical signals. numerical signals
【Correct】
Numerical values are compared to determine if they are equal.

【Incorrect】
A logical output is connected directly to the input of blocks that process numerical
inputs.

A logical signal is compared with a numerical value.

b Numerical signals shall not connect to blocks that Blocks receiving logical
operate on logical signals. signals
【Correct】

82
 Logical signal is inverted by using a logical operation.

Logical signal is evaluated by using a logical operation.

【Incorrect】
 A block that is used to perform logical operations is being used to perform numerical
operations.
 A numerical output is connected to the input of blocks that process logical inputs.

 A block that is used to perform numerical operations is being used to perform logical
operations.
Inputs other than logical values can be provided to the block. However, [Enable
Port] can receive only logical signals that have On/Off.
83
 [Product] performs logical operations when it connects the numerical operations
result to a block that receives the logical value [Enable Port].

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When numerical and logical values are treated the same, the original intention
ab becomes unclear and the next operation in the model can be incorrectly interpreted,
further compounding the error.

jc_0121: Usage of add and subtraction blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0121: Usage of add and subtraction blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The {icon shape} of the add and subtraction [Sum] block -
shall be “rectangular”.
When used in a feedback loop, the {icon shape} can be
“round”.
【Correct】
The {icon shape} for the add and subtraction [Sum] block is “rectangular”.

The second input to the add and subtraction [Sum] block is a feedback loop, so the
{icon shape} is “round”.

84
 【Incorrect】
This is not a feedback loop, but the {icon shape} of the add and subtraction [Sum]
block is “round”.

b The “+” mark shall be used for the first input to the add -
and subtraction [Sum] block.
For a feedback loop, the first input can be set by using
the “-” mark.
【Correct】
The “+” mark is used for the first input to the add and subtraction [Sum] block.

The second input to the add and subtraction [Sum] block is a feedback loop, so the “-”
mark is used.

【Incorrect】
The sign for the first input to the add and subtraction [Sum] block is the “-” mark.

85
 c The add and subtraction [Sum] block shall not have more -
than two inputs.
【Correct】
The add and subtraction [Sum] block has no more than two inputs.

【Incorrect】
The add and subtraction [Sum] block has three inputs.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a Adherence to the guideline improves readability of the model.
Readability of the control specification improves when the sign for the first input is
b
consistent.
c The order of operations is clearly defined.

jc_0610: Operator order for multiplication and division blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0610: Operator order for multiplication and division blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All

86
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The “*” mark shall be used for the first input to a -
multiplication and division [Product] block.
【Correct】
The “*” mark is used for the first input to the multiplication and division [Product]
block.

【Incorrect】
The “/” mark is used for the first input to the multiplication and division [Product]
block.

b The multiplication and division [Product] block shall have -

no more than two inputs.
【Correct】
The block has two inputs.

【Incorrect】
The block has three inputs.

87
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When checking the block, the input order of the expression and block is reversed,
which impairs readability.
a  For floating point numbers, the code is generated according to the operation order in
the block ((1÷1st input)) × 2nd input). However, if division is performed later, the
number of operations can be reduced.
b  The order of operations is clearly defined.

jc_0611: Input sign for multiplication and division blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0611: Input sign for multiplication and division blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When using fixed-point values as the input to the -
multiplication and division [Product] block, the sign of the
data type shall be the same for all input signals.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 A utility function is created for each least significant bit (LSB) when fixed-point code
a is generated. Unification of data type signs can reduce the number of utility
functions.

jc_0794: Division in Simulink

Rule ID: Title jc_0794: Division in Simulink
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When using division, implementation of the algorithm -
shall avoid division by zero.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can cause unintended operation and code generation
a
results.
88
jc_0805: Numerical operation block inputs
Rule ID: Title jc_0805: Numerical operation block inputs
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2, b, c1/c2, d, e, f1/f2, g, h, i, j
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2, b, c1/c2, d, e, f1/f2, g, h, i, j
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 When using [Abs] with signed integer types, the input -
shall not be the most negative value.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

a2 [Abs] block parameter {Saturation on Integer Overflow} -

shall be selected.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

b Input to [Abs] shall not be unsigned integer types or -

fixed-point types.
【Correct】

89
 【Incorrect】

c1 Input to [Sqrt] shall not be a negative value. -

【Correct】
Negative number is saturated with 0.

Simulation result

【Incorrect】

c2 [Sqrt] block parameter {Output Signal Type} shall be set -

to “complex”.
【Correct】

90
 【Incorrect】

d Input to [Reciprocal Sqrt] shall not be less than zero. -

【Correct】
Less than eps saturated with eps

Simulation result: Plot as Y=log10(Z)

【Incorrect】

e When using [Math Function] and block parameter -

{Function} is set to “log” or “log10”, the input to the block
shall not be zero.
【Correct】
Replace within ±eps with ±eps

91
 Simulation result: Plot as Y = |Z|

【Incorrect】

f1 When using [Math Function] and block parameter -

{Function} is set to “log” or “log10”, the input to the block
shall not be a negative number.
【Correct】
When the input is less than eps, the value is saturated to eps. Less than eps
saturated with eps.

Simulation result

92
 【Incorrect】

f2 When using [Math Function] and block parameter {Function} is -

set to “log” or “log10”, block parameter {Output Signal Type} shall
be set to “complex”.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

g When using [Math Function] and block parameter {Function} is -

set to “mod” or “rem”, the second argument input shall not be
zero.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

93
h When using [Math Function] and block parameter {Function} is -
set to “reciprocal”, the input to the block shall not be zero.
【Correct】
Replace within ±eps with ±eps

Simulation result: Simulation results is not inf, but since it is close to zero, the change
in the output value is significant.

【Incorrect】

i When [Product] block parameter {Multiplication} is set to -

“Element-wise(.*)”, the divisor input shall not be zero.
Note: To specify a divisor input, set [Product] block parameter
{Number of inputs} to “*/”.)
【Correct】

94
 【Incorrect】

j When [Product] block parameter {Multiplication} is set to -

“Matrix(*)”, the divisor input shall not be set to a singular matrix.
Note: To specify a divisor input, set [Product] block parameter
{Number of inputs} to “*/”.)
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a1c1de The result of entering an invalid value is implementation dependent. Deviation from
f1ghij the rules can result in unintended behavior.
a2 Correct settings prevent unintended behavior that can result from using invalid values.
The block can become optimized out of the generated code, resulting in a block that
b
you cannot trace to the generated code.
Correct settings prevent unintended behavior that can result from using negative
c2f2
values.

95
jc_0622: Usage of Fcn blocks
Rule ID: Title jc_0622: Usage of Fcn blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When [Fcn] has operators with different priorities, -
parentheses shall be used to specify the priority order.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
When operators have different priorities and the computation order is not clearly
a specified by using parentheses, readability is impaired and can be misinterpreted.
This can result in unintended behavior.

jc_0621: Usage of Logical Operator blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0621: Usage of Logical Operator blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The {icon shape} for [Logical Operator] shall be set to -
“rectangular”.
【Correct】
The icon shape for [Logical Operator] is set to “rectangular”.

【Incorrect】
Some of the icon shapes for [Logical Operator] are not “rectangular”.

96
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
When describing the same function, using a consistent expression improves
a readability. Since “Characteristics” shapes are similar, the risk of misinterpretation is
greater than with “rectangular” shapes.

jc_0131: Usage of Relational Operator blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0131: Usage of Relational Operator blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When using [Relational Operator] for comparison of -
signals and constants, the second (bottom) input shall be
used as the constant input.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description

97
 Using constant values and the same comparison method reduces misinterpretation of
a
the model.

jc_0800: Comparing floating-point types in Simulink

Rule ID: Title jc_0800: Comparing floating-point types in Simulink
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Equivalence comparison operators (==, ~=) shall not be -
used on floating-point data types.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Uses floating-point type equivalence comparison operations (==, ~=).

Rationale
Sub ID Description
Due to the characteristics of the floating-point, since the error is included in the value,
a the result of the equivalence comparison operation may be false when it was
expected to be true.

jc_0626: Usage of Lookup Table blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0626: Usage of Lookup Table blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
98
 Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Lookup Table Dynamic] block parameter {Lookup -
Method} shall be set to “Interpolation – Use End Values”.
b These [n-D Lookup Table] block parameters shall be set: -
- Set {Interpolation Method} to “Linear point-slope”
or “Linear Lagrange”
- Set {Extrapolation Method} to “Clip”
• Select {Use last table value for inputs at or above
last breakpoint}.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
When an unexpected value is entered for [Lookup Table], the output is determined by
ab using the extrapolation method and can become an impossible value or cause the
[Lookup Table] output to overflow.

jc_0623: Usage of continuous-time Delay blocks and discrete-time Delay blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0623: Usage of continuous-time Delay blocks and discrete-
time Delay blocks
Sub ID Recommendations NA-MAAB: a
JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Unit Delay] or [Delay] shall be used in a discrete model -
or subsystem.
[Memory] shall be used in a continuous type model or
subsystem.
【Correct】
[Unit Delay] is used in the discrete type model or subsystem.

【Incorrect】
[Memory] is used in the discrete type model or subsystem.

99
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a Adherence to the rule improves readability of the model.

jc_0624: Usage of Tapped Delay blocks/Delay blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0624: Usage of Tapped Delay blocks/Delay blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When holding previous past values, [Tapped Delay] shall -
be used to create a vector signal from all held values.
【Correct】
[Tapped Delay] is used.

【Incorrect】
[Tapped Delay] is not used.

100
 b When holding past values, [Delay] shall be used to -
obtain the oldest value only.
【Correct】
[Delay] is used.

【Incorrect】
[Delay] is not used.

Rationale
Sub Description
ID
[Tapped Delay] is set with arrays that hold past values, which improves code
a
readability to assist code efficiency.
B Improves model readability and code efficiency.

jc_0627: Usage of Discrete-Time Integrator blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0627: Discrete-Time Integrator blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

101
a [Discrete-Time Integrator] block parameters {Upper -
saturation limit} and {Lower saturation limit} shall be
defined.
【Correct】
Block parameters {Upper saturation limit} and {Lower saturation limit} are defined.

【Incorrect】
Block parameters {Upper saturation limit} and {Lower saturation limit} are not
defined.

Jc_0627
b When [Discrete-Time Integrator] block parameters -
{Upper saturation limit} and {Lower saturation limit} are
defined as Simulink.Parameter, parameter {Data
type} shall be set to “auto”.
【Correct】
{Data type} is set to “auto”.

102
 【Incorrect】
{Data type} is not set to “auto”.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
Avoids block output overflow and prevents other computation blocks that use the
a
output of this block from producing unexpected results.
Simulation errors occur when {Data type} is set to a value other than “auto”, “single”,
B
or “double”.

103
jc_0628: Usage of Saturation blocks
Rule ID: Title jc_0628: Usage of Saturation blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Saturation] and [Saturation Dynamic] shall be used to -
limit physical quantity.
Type conversion shall not be used.
The upper and lower limits for the data type maximum
and minimum values shall not be set.
【Correct】
[Saturation Dynamic] is used to limit physical quantity. Type conversion is not being
used.

【Incorrect】
[Saturation Dynamic] is not being used to limit physical quantity. Type conversion is
being used. The upper and lower limits for the data type maximum and minimum
values are set.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a Consistent use of [Saturation] improves maintainability of the model.

jc_0651: Implementing a type conversion

Rule ID: Title jc_0651: Implementing a type conversion

104
 Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Data Type Conversion] shall be used when changing -
the data type of the block output signal.
【Correct】
[Data Type Conversion] is used to convert the data type of the [Divide] output signal.

【Incorrect】
[Data Type Conversion] is not used to convert the data type of the [Divide] output
signal.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
Dividing the math operations and type cast can help to clarify the order of execution
a
and data type for each expression.

Other blocks
db_0042: Usage of Inport and Outport blocks
Rule ID: Title db_0042: Usage of Inport and Outport blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Inport] shall be positioned on the left side of the diagram, -
but can be moved to prevent the crossing of signals.
【Correct】
[Inport] is positioned on the left side of the diagram.
105
 【Incorrect】
[Inport] is not positioned on the left side of the diagram.

b [Outport] shall be positioned on the right side of the -

diagram, but can be moved to prevent the crossing of
signals.
【Correct】
[Outport] is positioned on the right side of the diagram.

106
 【Incorrect】
[Outport] is not positioned on the right side of the diagram.

c Duplicate [Inport] shall be prohibited. -

【Correct】
One [Inport] is used..

【Incorrect】
[Inport] is duplicated.

107
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
abc Defined operation rules improve readability.

jc_0081: Inport/Outport block icon display

Rule ID: Title jc_0081: Inport/Outport block icon display
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a For [Inport] and [Outport], block parameter {Icon Display} -
shall be set to "Port number".
【Correct】
The {icon display} for [Inport] and [Outport] is "Port number".

【Incorrect】
The {icon display} for [Inport] and [Outport] is not "Port number".

108
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability by displaying the port number of [Inport] and [Outport].
 Allows for easy identification of port numbers that are within a subsystem.
a  Prevents misconnections to hierarchized subsystems by displaying the block names
and making the names of signal lines to the [Inport] or [Outport] the same as the
block names.

na_0011: Scope of Goto/From blocks

Rule ID: Title na_0011: Scope of Goto/From blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Goto] block parameter {tag visibility} shall be set to -
“Local”.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When hierarchies of [Goto] and corresponding [From] are different, the connection
relationships can be difficult to understand.
a
 Simulation errors can occur when hierarchies of [Goto] and corresponding [From]
are different and a virtual subsystem changes to an Atomic subsystem.

jc_0161: Definition of Data Store Memory blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0161: Definition of Data Store Memory blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The smallest scope level shall be used to define [Data -
Store Memory].
b Only data required for execution and code generation -
shall be defined in [Data Store Memory].
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Readability improves when usage is limited.
b  Unused [Data Store Memory] data can affect maintenance and operability.

jc_0141: Usage of Switch blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0141: Usage of Switch blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
109
 Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The second [Switch] input condition shall be a logical -
type.
[Switch] block parameter {Criteria for passing first input}
shall be set to “u2~=0”.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 It is easier to understand specifications when the configuration is applied by using
a
Simulink blocks rather than by writing operation expressions in blocks.

jc_0650: Block input/output data type with switching function

Rule ID: Title jc_0650: Block input/output data type with switching function
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a For blocks with switching functions ([Switch], [Multiport -
Switch], and [Index Vector]), the same data type shall be
used for data ports and output ports.
【Correct】
The data type for the data port and output port is the same.

110
 【Incorrect】
The data port and output port have different data types.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a Prevents implicit data conversion.

jc_0630: Usage of Multiport Switch blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0630: Usage of Multiport Switch blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, c
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Multiport Switch] block parameter {Number of data ports} -
shall be two or more.
b The input to the [Multiport Switch] control port shall be an -
unsigned integer.
c When [Multiport Switch] block parameter {data port -
order}is set to "Specify indices", these block parameters
shall be set:
 {Data port for default case} to “Additional data port”.

111
  {Diagnostic for default case} to “None”.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Unintended output can occur when there is only one data port because the block
a
changes to extract scalars from vectors.
 The control port is an input range that expects an integer value of zero or greater.
When a signed or non-integer signal is connected to the control port, it can appear
b as a misconnection.
 There is a possibility of data ports being unintentionally selected when negative or
non-integer values are input.
 When block parameter {Data port order} is set to “Specify indices”, any value that is
input to [Multiport Switch], other than the index specified for the control port, is
c
treated the same as the last value of the specified index. As a result, an unintended
data port can be selected.

112
na_0020: Number of inputs to variant subsystems
Rule ID: Title na_0020: Number of inputs to variant subsystems
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The number of inputs/outputs of a [Variant Subsystem] -
and its child subsystem or [Model Reference] shall be the
same.
【Correct】
The number of inputs to the child subsystem is the same.

【Incorrect】
The number of inputs to the child subsystem is different.

b The number of inputs/outputs for [Model Variants] shall be -

that same as its referenced model.
【Correct】
The number of inputs to the referenced model is the same as for [Model Variants] .
113
 【Incorrect】
The number of inputs to the referenced model is different than the inputs to [Model
Variants].

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Unconnected signals can be unintentionally overlooked when the number of
ab
inputs/outputs is different.

na_0036: Default variant

Rule ID: Title na_0036: Default variant
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub Description Custom Parameter
ID
a Variant subsystems shall be configured so that one -
subsystem is always selected. This is achieved by using
one of these methods:
 Use the default variant for the variant.
 Define conditions that exhaustively cover all possible
values of the conditional variables. For example,
define conditions for true and false values of a
Boolean.
114
 【Correct】
A default variant is used.

【Correct】
FUNC is a logical type.

【Incorrect】
An active subsystem will not exist when FUNC is not 1 or 2.

b Model variant conditions shall be set so that all values -

which can be applied to conditional variable signals are
configured so that one subsystem is always selected.
For example, a condition is prepared for the variable
signal value being true, as well as false.
【Correct】
The condition is set so that all values for the conditional variable are covered.

【Incorrect】
An active subsystem will not exist when FUNC is not 1 or 2.

Rationale
Sub Description
ID
 Prevents the omission of conditions.
ab
 There may not be an active subsystem when conditions are omitted.

na_0037: Use of single variable for variant condition

Rule ID: Title na_0037: Use of single variable for variant condition

115
 Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Variant conditions shall be used to prohibit compound -
conditions that are formed from multiple variables.

Exception:
When using default variants, conditional expressions
that are formed from multiple variables can be used.
【Correct】
The variant condition is set by a single condition that is formed from multiple
variables.

The usage of enumerated type variables is recommended in a condition equation.

This example uses numerical values to improve readability.

【Incorrect】
The variant condition is set by a compound condition that is formed from multiple
variables.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Complicates the conditions, which makes it difficult to determine which subsystem
will become active. This can result in conditions being omitted.
a
 When conditions are omitted, there is a risk that there may not be an active
subsystem.

4. Stateflow
Stateflow blocks/data/events
db_0122: Stateflow and Simulink interface signals and parameters
Rule ID: Title db_0122: Stateflow and Simulink interface signals and
parameters
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Chart] parameter {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink -
I/O} shall be selected so that strong data typing between
116
 a Stateflow chart and Simulink is permitted.
Note: {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink I/O} is
available only when [Chart] property {Action Language} is
set to “C”.
【Correct】
Parameter {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink I/O} is selected, so the input and
output are set to “uint8” type.

【Incorrect】
Parameter {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink I/O} is not selected, so the input
and output are set to “double” type.

Rationale
Sub ID Description

 When {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink I/O} is not selected, the Simulink
signal data type that can input and output to [Chart] is set to “double” type. As a
result, type conversion is required prior to input and after output, which increases the
number of blocks and decreases readability.
 When {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink I/O} is not selected, the Simulink
a signal data type that can input and output to [Chart] is set to “double” type. However,
input data of any type in [Chart] can connect directly with that signal.
When these two signals have different data types, an implicit data type conversion
occurs. By selecting {Use Strong Data Typing with Simulink I/O}, the implicit data
type conversion does not take place and a data type inconsistency error is
generated. This prevents misunderstandings due to differences in data type, thus
improving readability.

db_0123: Stateflow port names

Rule ID: Title db_0123: Stateflow port names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The name of a Stateflow input/output shall be the same -
as the corresponding signal.

117
 Exception: Reusable Stateflow blocks can have different
port names.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability.
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

db_0125: Stateflow local data

Rule ID: Title db_0125: Stateflow local data
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Scope shall not define “Local” local data at the machine -
level.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Scope has set “Local” local data at the machine level.

118
b Scope shall not define “Constant” local data at the -
machine level.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Scope has set “Constant” local data at the machine level.

119
c Scope shall not define “Parameter” local data at the -
machine level.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Scope has set “Parameter” local data at the machine level.

120
d A Stateflow block with parent-child relationships shall not -
include local data with the same name.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
A Stateflow block with parent-child relationships has local data with the same name.

121
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When local data is defined at the machine level, it is shared with all blocks in the
a model. The data will not behave like a local variable and can be influenced by any
operation.
 Adherence to the rules prevent the definition from disappearing when copying a
abc
Stateflow block to another model.
 When a Stateflow block with parent-child relationships includes local data with the
d same name, readability decreases due to lack of clarity with regard to the influence
of the local data.

db_0126: Defining Stateflow events

Rule ID: Title db_0126: Defining Stateflow events
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

122
 a Stateflow events shall be defined by the smallest scope -
level in the Stateflow block being used.

【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale

123
 Sub ID Description
a  Limiting use locations increases reliability.

jc_0701: Usable number for first index

Rule ID: Title jc_0701: Usable number for first index
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”, -
Stateflow data property {First index} shall be set to “0”.
【Correct】
{First index} is set to “0”.

【Incorrect】
{First index} is set to a combination of “0”, “1”, and “2”.

124
a2 When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”, -
Stateflow data property {First index} shall be set to “1”.
【Correct】
The {First index} is set to “1”.

125
 【Incorrect】
The {First index} is set to a combination of “0”, “1”, and “2”.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a1  Logic becomes easier to understand when {First index} is uniform.
 Logic becomes easier to understand when {First index} is uniform. However, C
a2 language is 0-based, which decreases the readability of the code as the index
calculation process is 1-based. This is reflected in the generated code.

jc_0712: Execution timing for default transition path

Rule ID: Title jc_0712: Execution timing for default transition path
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Chart] property {Execute (enter) Chart At Initialization} -
shall not be selected.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Using the same settings for each [Chart] prevents the model from being
a misinterpreted.
Use caution when referencing an input signal using the default transition line when
126
 property {Execute (enter) Chart At Initialization} is selected. (See manual for further
details)

jc_0722: Local data definition in parallel states

Rule ID: Title jc_0722: Local data definition in parallel states
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Local variables that are completed in one state shall be -
defined in that state.
【Correct】
Local variables are defined in the state being used.

【Incorrect】
Local variables are not defined in the state being used.

127
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability and maintainability can be improved by explicitly limiting the valid range
a
of the variables, thereby avoiding unintended references and changes.

Stateflow diagram
jc_0797: Unconnected transitions / states / connective junctions
Rule ID: Title jc_0797: Unconnected transitions / states / connective junctions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Chart] shall not have unconnected transitions. -
【Correct】
[Chart] does not have unconnected transitions.

128
 【Incorrect】
[Chart] has unconnected transitions.

b [Chart] shall not have unconnected exclusive (OR) states -

and connective junctions without a transition source.
【Correct】
[Chart] does not have unconnected exclusive (OR) states or connective junctions
without a transition source.

129
 【Incorrect】
[Chart] has unconnected exclusive (OR) states and connective junctions without a
transition source.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Unconnected transitions can result in adverse effects, such as misinterpretation of
ab
simulation results or failure to generate code.

db_0137: States in state machines

Rule ID: Title db_0137: States in state machines
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When the {Decomposition} of the [Chart] or State is set to -
“OR (Exclusive)”, there shall be at least two states in the
hierarchy.
【Incorrect】
{Decomposition} of the [Chart] and State A is set to “OR(exclusive)”, but the
hierarchy contains only one state.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Redundant descriptions impair readability.
a
 Generated code includes unnecessary state variables.

130
jc_0721: Usage of parallel states
Rule ID: Title jc_0721: Usage of parallel states
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Substates of parallel states shall not be parallel states. -
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Substates of parallel states are parallel states.

131
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Behavior is not affected by nesting parallel states in a parent superstate.
a
 Hierarchization of the parallel state decreases readability.

db_0129: Stateflow transition appearance

Rule ID: Title db_0129: Stateflow transition appearance
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Transition lines shall not cross over one another. -
【Correct】
Transition lines do not cross.

【Incorrect】
Transition lines cross.

132
b Transition lines shall not overlap other transition lines. -
【Correct】
Transition lines do not overlap other transition lines.

【Incorrect】
Transition lines overlap.

c Transition lines shall not cross over states. -

【Correct】
Transition lines do not cross over states.

【Incorrect】
Transition lines cross over states.

d Transition lines shall be drawn vertically or horizontally. -

Diagonal lines can be used for flow charts.
【Correct】
Transition lines are drawn vertically or horizontally. Diagonal lines are used for flow
charts.

133
 【Incorrect】
Transition lines are not drawn vertically or horizontally.

e Unnecessary connective junctions shall not be used. -

【Correct】
Unnecessary connective junctions are not used.

【Incorrect】
Unnecessary connective junctions are used.

134
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Difficult to understand the relationship between states when transition lines cross.
b  Difficult to understand the relationship between states when transition lines overlap.
 Difficult to understand the relationship between states when transition lines cross
c
over states.
d  Consistent application of transition lines improves readability.
 Transitions can be difficult to understand when unnecessary connective junctions
e
are used.

jc_0531: Default transition

Rule ID: Title jc_0531: Default transition
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f, g
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c, d, e, f, g
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a  When {Decomposition} of [Chart] is “Exclusive (OR)”, the -
default transition shall connect at the top of the [Chart]
block.
 When {Decomposition} of the state is “Exclusive (OR)”, the
default transition shall connect immediately beneath the
state.
【Correct】
The default transition line is connected at the top.

135
 【Incorrect】
The default transition line is not connected.

b When {Decomposition} is set to “Parallel (AND)”, the default -

transition line shall not be connected.
【Correct】
{Decomposition} of the parent object for states AA and AB is set to “Parallel (AND)”,
which makes states AA and AB parallel states. The default transition line is not
connected for these parallel states.

【Incorrect】
A default transition line is connected for parallel state AA.

c A level shall not have multiple default transitions. -

【Correct】
The level does not have multiple default transitions.

136
 【Incorrect】
Multiple default transitions are included in the same level of state A.

d Default transitions shall be connected directly and -

positioned vertically to the upper part of the state or
connective junction.
【Correct】
The default transition is connected vertically to the upper part of the state.

137
 【Incorrect】
The default transition of state A is not connected vertically to the upper part of the
state.

e The destination state or destination connective junction for -

the default transition shall be positioned to the top left in
the same level.
【Correct】
The default transition is positioned to the top left in the same level.

138
 【Incorrect】
The default transition of state AB is not positioned to the top left in the same level.

f Default transitions shall not extend beyond the -

boundaries of the state.
【Correct】
The default transition is within the boundaries of the state.

139
 【Incorrect】
The default transition extends beyond the boundaries of the state.

g Configuration parameter {No unconditional default -

transitions} shall be set to “Error” to ensure that in the
transition path for the default transition, the path with the
lowest priority is an unconditional transition.
【Correct】
The path with the lowest priority in the transition path for the default transition is an
unconditional transition.

140
 【Incorrect】
The path with the lowest priority in the transition path for the default transition is not
an unconditional transition.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Simulation errors can occur when a state chart does not include default transition
lines.
a
 When default transitions are included in a flow chart, it is impossible to determine
whether this is intentional or through failure to insert them.
b  Readability improves when there are no unnecessary default transitions.
 The state may not function as intended and produce a warning when multiple default
c
transitions are included in the same level.
 Readability decreases when there are curves or variations in the angle or position of
d
default transitions.
 Readability decreases when there are variations in the position of the transition
e destination state or transition destination connective junction for the default
transition.

141
  Readability decreases when a default transition extends beyond the boundary of a
f
state and intersects with state boundaries and expressions.
 When there is not an unconditional transition in the transition path of the default
g transition, the transition destination disappears if all conditions of the transition path
are not met. This can result in unintended behavior.

jc_0723: Prohibited direct transition from external state to child state

Rule ID: Title jc_0723: Prohibited direct transition from external state to child
state
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Transitions from one state directly to an external child -
state shall be prohibited.
【Correct】
Transition from parent state to parent state.

Transition from child state to another parent state.

142
【Incorrect】
Direct transition from an external state to a child state in a different state.

Direct transition from an external child state to a child state in a different state.

143
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Direct transitions between child states can complicate the states and decrease
a
readability.

jc_0751: Backtracking prevention in state transition

Rule ID: Title jc_0751: Backtracking prevention in state transition
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Connective junctions shall not be used to separate -
complex conditions.
【Correct】
Connective junctions are not used to separate complex conditions.

【Incorrect】
Connective junctions are used to separate complex conditions.

144
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can cause backtracking, which results in unintended
a
behavior.

jc_0760: Starting point of internal transition

Rule ID: Title jc_0760: Starting point of internal transition
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Internal transition lines shall start from the left edge of the -
state.
【Correct】
The internal transition line begins at the left edge of the state.

145
【Incorrect】
The internal transition line does not begin at the left edge of the state.

146
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Adherence to the rule improves readability.

jc_0763: Usage of multiple internal transitions

Rule ID: Title jc_0763: Usage of multiple internal transitions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Multiple internal transitions shall not be used in a single -
state.
【Correct】

147
【Incorrect】

148
a2 When multiple internal transitions are used in a single -
state, they shall be listed from top to bottom in the order
of execution.
【Correct】

149
 【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 The number of transition conditions is unclear when multiple internal transitions are
a1 used. By limiting the use of internal transitions to a single use, transitions are clearer
and readability improves.
 Using multiple internal transitions can prevent transition lines from crossing and
a2 simplifies state transitions.
 Arranging internal transitions in execution order improves readability.

jc_0762: Prohibition of state action and flow chart combination

Rule ID: Title jc_0762: Prohibition of state action and flow chart combination

150
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a A state shall not include state actions (entry, during, or -
exit) and flow charts.
【Correct】
Within the state, only one of either a State action or a flow chart is described.

【Incorrect】
The state has both a state action and a flow chart.

151
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  The execution order becomes difficult to understand, which decreases readability.

db_0132: Transitions in flow charts

Rule ID: Title db_0132: Transitions in flow charts
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Transition actions shall not be used in flow charts. -
【Correct】
Transition actions are not used.

152
 【Incorrect】
Transition actions are used.

b In a flow chart, the condition shall be positioned on a -

horizontal transition line and the condition action shall be
positioned on a vertical transition line.

Exception:
Diagonal transition lines in loop constructs.
【Correct】
The condition is positioned on a horizontal transition line and the condition action is
on a vertical transition line.

153
 【Incorrect】
The condition is positioned on a vertical transition line and the condition action is on
a horizontal transition line.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  The transition action in a flow chart is not executed.
b  Consistent positioning of conditions and condition actions improves readability.

jc_0773: Unconditional transition of a flow chart

Rule ID: Title jc_0773: Unconditional transition of a flow chart
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

154
a When a transition line with a transition condition -
originates from a connective junction, t unconditional
transition line shall also begin from that junction.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
0762

b The {execution order} for unconditional transitions shall -

be set to the last value.
【Correct】

155
 【Incorrect】
The {execution order} for the unconditional transition line is not the last value.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Prevents unintended behavior that results from backtracking.
a Setting an unconditional transition explicitly defines the behavior for when the
condition is not met.
 Setting the unconditional transition to take precedence can prevent unintended
b
behavior.

156
jc_0775: Terminating junctions in flow charts
Rule ID: Title jc_0775: Terminating junctions in flow charts
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Only one terminating junction shall be used. -
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
There is more than one terminating junction.

a2 One terminating junction with a single unconditional -

transition as the input shall be used.
【Correct】

157
 【Incorrect】
There is more than one terminating junction and input.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 One terminating junction improves understanding of the logic end point.
a1a2
 Using a consistent style for terminating junction improves readability.

jc_0738: Usage of Stateflow comments

Rule ID: Title jc_0738: Usage of Stateflow comments
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When [Chart] parameter {Action Language} is set to -
“C”, /*...*/ comment nesting shall not be used.
【Correct】

158
 【Incorrect】

b When [Chart] parameter {Action Language} is set to “C”, -

new line characters for comments /* */ shall not be used
in the middle of a single comment.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a The compiler can misinterpret the comments as a program.
 A line break in the middle of a comment makes it difficult to determine whether
the part being edited is in the comment. There is also a possibility that the
b comment is nested.
 When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “MATLAB”, comments must
use %.

159
 Conditional transition / Action
jc_0790: Action language of Chart block
Rule ID: Title jc_0790: Action language of Chart block
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Chart] property {Action Language} shall be set to “C”. -
【Correct】
{Action Language} is set to “C”.

【Incorrect】
{Action Language} is set to “MATLAB”.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
160
  Using a consistent action language improves readability because there is not a
difference in syntax.
 Easier to maintain consistency between the model and the generated code when
a
using C as the action language as compared to MATLAB.
 Easier to understand the model for users who are familiar with the C programming
language.

jc_0702: Use of named Stateflow parameters/constants

Rule ID: Title jc_0702: Use of named Stateflow parameters/constants
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Stateflow] shall not use numeric literal. -

Exceptions:
 Initial value is 0
 Increment, decrement 1
【Correct】
Numeric literals are not used.

【Incorrect】
0711

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Only the modeler will understand the purpose of the value when numeric literals are
used to write constants, which decreases readability.
a
 Constants that are intended for calibration are generated in the code using numeric
literals.

161
jm_0011: Pointers in Stateflow
Rule ID: Title jm_0011: Pointers in Stateflow
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [Stateflow] shall not use pointer variables. -
【Correct】
Pointer variables are not used.

【Incorrect】
Pointer variables are used.

162
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability is impaired when pointer variables are used.
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0491: Reuse of Stateflow data

Rule ID: Title jc_0491: Reuse of Stateflow data
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a A variable shall not have multiple meanings (usages) in a -
single [Chart].
【Correct】
A variable does not have multiple meanings (usages).

163
【Incorrect】
Variables k and kk have multiple meanings (usages) in a single [Chart].

164
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Variables can be misinterpreted when the variable name is different than the
a
meaning of the numerical value that is assigned to the variable.

jm_0012: Usage restrictions of events and broadcasting events

Rule ID: Title jm_0012: Usage restrictions of events and broadcasting events
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2/a3

165
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Stateflow events shall be used only in [Stateflow] output. -
【Correct】
Event is used only in the [Stateflow] output.

【Incorrect】
Event is used other than in the [Stateflow] output.

a2 Send syntax send(event_name, state_name)shall -

be used to broadcast Stateflow events.
【Correct】
Event is broadcast using the send syntax.

166
 【Incorrect】
The state that receives the broadcast has not been defined in the send syntax.

a3 Send syntax send(state_name.event_name)with the -

qualified event name shall be used to broadcast
Stateflow events.
【Correct】
The qualified event name is used in the event being broadcast.
167
 【Incorrect】
The state that receives the broadcast has not been described in the send syntax.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Recursive processing in a chart is prevented by using Stateflow events in [Stateflow]
a1
output only.

168
  Improves readability because transitions that are triggered by events are clearly
a2a3
identified.

jc_0733: Order of state action types

Rule ID: Title jc_0733: Order of state action types
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a, b
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Basic state action types shall be stated in this order: -
entry (en)
during (du)
exit (ex)
【Correct】 【Incorrect】
Order is en, du, ex. Not in en, du, ex order.

b Combined state action types shall be stated in this order: -

entry (en)
during (du)
exit (ex)
【Correct】 【Incorrect】
Order is en, du, ex. Not in en, du, ex order.

169
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
ab  Consistent modelling improves readability and maintainability.

jc_0734: Number of state action types

Rule ID: Title jc_0734: Number of state action types
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a State action types shall not describe the same thing more -
than twice.
【Correct】 【Incorrect】

170
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 The execution order will differ depending on the order in which they are described.
a  Execution order can be difficult to understand when the action type is described
multiple times.

jc_0740: Limitation on use of exit state action

Rule ID: Title jc_0740: Limitation on use of exit state action
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a State action type exit(ex) shall not be used. -
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
This example illustrates how the model behavior in [Chart] is misinterpreted. It
appears that TBD is output when state action type exit(ex) is used, but it is in fact
being overwritten by the state action type entry of the transition destination state. It is
not outputted by [Chart].

171
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Execution timing can be difficult to understand when state action type exit(ex) is
a used in combination with a conditional action, a transition action, or state action type
entry(en). This can result in misinterpretation of the model behavior.

jc_0741: Timing to update data used in state chart transition conditions

Rule ID: Title jc_0741: Timing to update data used in state chart transition
conditions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Variables that are used in a state transition condition -
shall not use “during” to perform an update.
【Correct】
The update is not performed by using “during”.

【Incorrect】
The update is performed by using “during”.

172
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 The execution order of the transition condition and implement of “during” can be
a
difficult to understand, which increases the risk of errors.

jc_0772: Execution order and transition conditions of transition lines

Rule ID: Title jc_0772: Execution order and transition conditions of transition
lines
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a All transition paths shall be executable. -

(R2011b to R2016a) Configuration parameter {Transition

shadowing} shall be set to “error”.

(R2016b and later) Configuration parameter

{Unreachable execution path] shall be set to “error”.
【Correct】

173
【Incorrect】
Execution order 1 is an unconditional transition and conditional expression [C1] is
described in execution condition 2.

【Correct】
Includes a state transition.

174
 【Incorrect】
Includes state transition. The unconditional transition line is higher in the execution
order than the conditional transition line.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 An unconditional transition that is in any position other than the last in the execution
a order causes the subsequent transition to be a dead path, which results in
unintended simulation behavior.

jc_0753: Condition actions and transition actions in Stateflow

Rule ID: Title jc_0753: Condition actions and transition actions in Stateflow
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule

175
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Transition actions shall not be used in a state chart. -
【Correct】
Only a condition action is used in the state chart.

【Incorrect】
A transition action is used in the state chart.

a2 Condition actions and transition actions shall not be -

combined in the same [Chart].
【Correct】
Either a condition action or a transition action can be used in a [Chart].
(The following diagram illustrates a transition action.)

176
 【Incorrect】
[Chart] 0774

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a1  Prevents confusion with a condition action, thus improving readability.
 A condition action executes upon entering a transition. A transition action executes
a2 after determining whether it can transition to the next state. Adherence to the rule
prevents confusion between a conditional action and a transition action.

jc_0711: Division in Stateflow

Rule ID: Title jc_0711: Division in Stateflow
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

177
a1 Variables, constants, or parameters in a Stateflow block -
shall not be used to perform division operations.
【Correct】
Division is performed outside of [Chart].

【Incorrect】
Division occurs within [Chart].

178
a2 When division occurs in a Stateflow block, the process shall -
prevent division by zero.
【Correct】
The process is defined to prevent division by zero.

【Incorrect】
The process does not prevent division by zero.

179
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Deviation from the rule can cause unintended operation and code generation
a1a2
results.

db_0127: Limitation on MATLAB commands in Stateflow blocks

Rule ID: Title db_0127: Limitation on MATLAB commands in Stateflow blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 MATLAB commands shall not be used in Stateflow -
blocks.
【Correct】
MATLAB commands are not used in Stateflow blocks.

180
 【Incorrect】
A MATLAB command is used in Stateflow blocks.

a2 When a MATLAB command is used in Stateflow blocks, it -

shall be accessed only by using [MATLAB Function].
【Correct】
The MATLAB command is accessed by using [MATLAB Function].

181
 【Incorrect】
[MATLAB Function] is not used for a MATLAB command.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Not all MATLAB commands are supported for code generation. As a result, code
a1
may not be generated for these unsupported MATLAB commands.
 Not all MATLAB commands are supported for code generation. As a result, code
may not be generated for these unsupported MATLAB commands.
a2
 Readability improves when C and MATLAB action languages are described
separately.

jc_0481: Use of hard equality comparisons for floating point numbers in Stateflow
Rule ID: Title jc_0481: Use of hard equality comparisons for floating point
numbers in Stateflow
182
 Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a These equality comparison operators shall not be used -
in floating-point operands:
• “==”
• “!=”
• “~=”
【Correct】
Equality comparison operators are not used in floating-point operands.

【Incorrect】
Equality comparison operator “==” is used in floating-point operands.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Due to the nature of the floating-point data type, as it contains an error, the result of
a the equivalence comparison operation may be false when it was expected to be
true.

na_0001: Standard usage of Stateflow operators

Rule ID: Title na_0001: Standard usage of Stateflow operators
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b1/b2/b3, c
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

183
a When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”, -
operators (“&”, “|”, “^”, “~”) shall be used only for bit
operations.
【Correct】
Operators (“&”, “|”, “^”, “~”) are used for bit operations.

【Incorrect】
Operators “&”, “|”, “^”, “~” are not used for bit operations.

b1 When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”, -

operator “~=” shall be used for inequality operations.
【Correct】
Operator “~=” is used for inequality operations.

b2 When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”., -

operator “!=” shall be used for inequality operations.
【Correct】
Operator “!=” is used for inequality operations.

184
b3 When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”, -
operator “<>” shall be used for inequality operations.
【Correct】
Operator “<>” is used for inequality operations.

c When [Chart] property {Action Language} is set to “C”, -

operation “!” shall be used for logical negation.
【Correct】
Operator “!” is used for logical negation.

“!” is used

【Incorrect】
An operator other than “!” should be used for logical negation.

185
 “!” other than “!” should be used.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
When either of these [Chart] properties are set as follows:
• {Action Language} is set to “MATLAB”
• {Action Language} is set to “C” and {Enable C-bit operations} is selected,
a
“&&” and “&”, “||” and “|”, have the same calculation function. However, when “&&”
and “&” or “||” and “|” are combined in the same chart, it can be difficult to determine
whether these are separate calculation functions or the same calculation function.

 Consistent use of equality operators improves readability.

b1b2b3
 Consistent use of logical negation operators improves readability.
 When [Chart] property {C-bit operations are enabled} is selected, the function of the
c
“!” operator remains the same and is not affected by logic changes that result from
changing the setting.

jc_0655: Prohibition of logical value comparison in Stateflow

Rule ID: Title jc_0655: Prohibition of logical value comparison in Stateflow
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Logical constants shall not be compared to each other. -
【Correct】
Logical constants are not compared to each other.

186
 【Incorrect】
Logical constants are compared to each other.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability improves with consistent use of “boolean-valued signal==true(boolean
type constant)” or “(boolean-valued signal)” for logical signal condition expressions.
a
 Prevents redundancy in the model.
 Deviation from the rule can cause unexpected issues.

jc_0451: Use of unary minus on unsigned integers

Rule ID: Title jc_0451: Use of unary minus on unsigned integers
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
187
 Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Unary minus shall not be used on unsigned integers. -
【Correct】

【Incorrect】
Negative values cannot be input into 16-bit environments.
(Negative values can be input into 32-bit environments)

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 As the results are depend on the execution environment, unintended results can
a
occur.

jc_0802: Prohibited use of implicit type casting in Stateflow

Rule ID: Title jc_0802: Prohibited use of implicit type casting in Stateflow
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a All operations, including substitution, comparison, -
arithmetic, etc., shall be performed between variables of
the same data type.
The data type of the actual arguments and the formal
arguments in a function call shall be the same.
【Correct】
 Variables use the same data type for calculations.
Example: Comparison operation

Example: Arithmetic operations and assignment operations (compound expressions)

188
 Variables have different data types but are explicitly typecast before calculation.
Example: Comparison operation

Example: Arithmetic operations and assignment operations (compound expressions)

 The data type of actual arguments and formal arguments in the function call are the
same.

【Incorrect】
 Variables use different data types for calculations.
Example: Comparison operation

Example: Arithmetic operations and assignment operations (compound expressions)

189
  Calculations are performed between unsigned integer type variables and signed
integers.

 The data type of actual arguments and formal arguments in the function call are
different.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Implicit data type conversion can produce unexpected results.

jc_0803: Passing values to library functions

Rule ID: Title jc_0803: Passing values to library functions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: 1/a2, b1/b2, c1/c2, d1/d2
Recommendations JMAAB: 1/a2, b1/b2, c1/c2, d1/d2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 A minimum value for the signed integer type shall not be -
provided when using the abs library function.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

190
a2 The abs library function shall not be used. -
b1 A negative number shall not be entered when using the -
sqrt library function.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

b2 The sqrt library function shall not be used. -

c1 A negative number shall not be entered when using the -
log and log10 library functions.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

c2 The log or log10 library functions shall not be used. -

d1 Zero shall not be entered for the second argument when -
using the fmod library function.

191
 【Correct】

【Incorrect】

d2 The fmod library function shall not be used. -

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 The behavior of a library function when an invalid value has been passed is
a1b1c1d1
dependent on the processing system and may result in unintended behavior.
a2b2  To avoid duplicate modelling of the same guard process in Simulink and Stateflow,
c2d2 use Simulink to perform arithmetic operations.

Label description
jc_0732: Distinction between state names, data names, and event names
Rule ID: Title jc_0732: Distinction between state names, data names, and event
names
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a An identical name shall not be used for state, data (inputs -
and outputs, local data, constants, parameters, data
store memory), or event names in a single [Chart].
【Correct】
Names are not duplicated.

192
 【Incorrect】
Names are duplicated.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Using unique names prevent misunderstanding.

jc_0730: Unique state name in Stateflow blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0730: Unique state name in Stateflow blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a State names in [Chart] shall be unique. -
The content of linked atomic sub-charts can be treated as
another [Chart].

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability is impaired.
a
 Deviation from the rule can cause unintended code behavior.
193
jc_0731: State name format
Rule ID: Title jc_0731: State name format
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The state name shall be followed by a new line that -
does not include a slash (/).
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Readability improves when state names are described consistently.

jc_0501: Line breaks in state labels

Rule ID: Title jc_0501: Line breaks in state labels
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a A state action statement shall not be written on the -
same line as a state action type.
【Correct】

194
 【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Readability is impaired.

jc_0736: Uniform indentations in Stateflow blocks

Rule ID: Title jc_0736: Uniform indentations in Stateflow blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a, b, c
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a State action types shall not have blank spaces at the Number of single-byte
start of a line. spaces
Executable statements shall have one single-byte
space at the start of the line.
【Correct】
Executable statements use one single-byte space at the start of the line.

195
 【Incorrect】
Executable statements do not have a single-byte space at the start of the line.

b A blank space shall not be entered before the -

following:
• “[“ of a transition condition
• “{“ of a condition action
• “/” of a transition action
【Correct】
A blank space is not entered before the “[“ and “{“ of the transition label
condition, condition action, and transition action.

【Incorrect】
A blank space is entered before the “[“ and “{“ of the transition label condition,
condition action, and transition action.

196
 c At least one single-byte space shall be entered after Number of single-byte
the “/” of a transition action. spaces
【Correct】
Single-byte spaces are entered after the “/” of the transition action.

【Incorrect】
There are no single-byte spaces after the “/” of the transition action.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Using uniform indents before the executable statement clarifies the link between
a the state action type of a state label and the execution statement, improving
readability.
 Using uniform indents for transition conditions, condition actions, and transition
b
actions improves readability.
c  Consistent use of blank spaces improves readability.

jc_0739: Describing text inside states

Rule ID: Title jc_0739: Describing text inside states
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a

197
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Text inside a state shall not extend beyond the -
boundaries of the state.
【Incorrect】

198
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When the text inside a state extends beyond its boundaries, it can be difficult to
a
determine which state the text belongs.

jc_0770: Position of transition label

Rule ID: Title jc_0770: Position of transition label
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
®
MATLAB Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Transition labels are positioned at the transition line -
point of origin.
【Correct】
Transition labels are positioned at the point of origin.

199
 【Incorrect】
The positioning of transition labels is inconsistent and do not correspond to the
transition line.

a2 Transition labels are positioned near the center of the -

transition line.
【Correct】
Transition labels are positioned near the center of the transition line.

【Incorrect】
The positioning of transition labels is inconsistent and do not correspond to the
transition line.

200
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Consistent positioning of transition labels makes the correspondence between
a1a2
label and line easier to understand.

jc_0771: Comment position in transition labels

Rule ID: Title jc_0771: Comment position in transition labels
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a1/a2
Recommendations JMAAB: a1/a2
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a1 Comments in transition labels shall be positioned above -
transition conditions, condition actions, transition actions,
and Stateflow events.
【Correct】
The position of the comments in the transition labels is uniform.

201
 【Incorrect】
The position of the comments in the transition labels is inconsistent.

a2 Comments in transition labels shall be positioned below -

transition conditions, condition actions, transition actions,
and Stateflow events.
【Correct】
The position of the comments in the transition labels is uniform.

202
 【Incorrect】
The position of the comments in the transition labels is inconsistent.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Uniform positioning of comments in transition labels clarifies to which transition
a1a2 condition, condition action, transition action, or Stateflow event the label
corresponds.

203
jc_0752: Condition action in transition label
Rule ID: Title jc_0752: Condition action in transition label
Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Parentheses in condition actions shall use only curly -
brackets on a single line.
(A new line shall start before and after curly brackets.)
【Correct】
Note: The example is for a flow chart, but the rule also applies to state transitions.

Incorrect

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Clarifying condition actions improves readability.

jc_0774: Comments for through transition

Rule ID: Title jc_0774: Comments for through transition
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When there is no processing in an unconditional -
transition, a clarifying comment shall be written on the
transition label.
【Correct】

204
 A clarifying comment is provided.

【Incorrect】
A clarifying comment is not provided on the condition path, so it is difficult to
determine whether the lack of action is intentional.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Clarifies that the processing is deliberately excluded.
a  The comment that is added to a transition label is also included in the generated
code.

Miscellaneous
jc_0511: Return values from a graphical function
Rule ID: Title jc_0511: Return values from a graphical function
205
 Sub ID NA-MAAB: No recommendations
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The return value for graphical functions shall be set in -
one place only.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Modifications to the output name is limited to prevent the changes from being
a
missed or overlooked.

jc_0804: Prohibited use of recursive calls with graphical functions

Rule ID: Title jc_0804: Prohibited use of recursive calls with graphical
functions

206
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Calls from a graphical function to itself and calls between -
graphical functions shall be prohibited.
【Correct】
Processing is performed within the graphical function.

【Incorrect】
The graphical function is calling itself.

Graphical functions are calling each other.

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Readability decreases. Deviation from the rule can cause unintended overflows and
a
infinite loops.

207
na_0042: Usage of Simulink functions
Rule ID: Title na_0042: Usage of Simulink functions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a When using [Simulink Function] in [Chart], one or more of -
the following conditions shall be met.
 Input/output variables shall use only local [Chart] data
in the [Simulink Function].
 Input/output variables shall use only local [Chart] data
and input data in the [Simulink Function].
 [Simulink Function] shall be called from multiple
places in [Chart].
 [Simulink Function] shall not be called at every time
step.

【Correct】
[Simulink Function] lookup1D is not called from every time step and, therefore, can
be used.

【Incorrect】
[Simulink Function] lookup1D is called from every time step and, therefore, cannot
be used. (out is the Stateflow output data)

Rationale
Sub ID Description
 To improve model readability, the use of [Simulink Functions] should be used with
a
caution in charts.

208
na_0039: Limitation on Simulink functions in Chart blocks
Rule ID: Title na_0039: Limitation on Simulink functions in Chart blocks
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Stateflow blocks shall not be used in [Simulink Functions] -
that are included in Stateflow [Chart].
【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Readability decreases and can result in design errors.

209
5. MATLAB
MATLAB Appearance

na_0018: Number of nested if/else and case statements

Rule ID: Title na_0018: Number of nested if/else and case statements
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The number of levels of nested if /else and case Maximum nested levels
statements shall be limited, typically to three levels.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

na_0025: MATLAB Function headers

Rule ID: Title na_0025: MATLAB Function headers
Sub ID Recommendations NA-MAAB: a
JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a [MATLAB Functions] shall have a descriptive header. -

Information in the header can include, but is not limited to:

• Function name
• Description of function
• Assumptions and limitations
• Description of changes from previous versions
• Lists of inputs and outputs

Example:

210
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability, model simulation, testability, and workflow
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

MATLAB Data and Operations

na_0024: Shared data in MATLAB functions

Rule ID: Title na_0024: Shared data in MATLAB functions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Signal lines shall be used to connect data that is shared -
between MATLAB functions.
【Correct】

211
 function ErrorFlag =
EngineFaultEvaluation(EngineData,ErrorFlag_In)
%#codegen
RPM_HIGH = 10000;
RPM_LOW = 10;
HIGHRPMFAULT = 2^1;
LOWRPMFAULT = 2^2;
ErrorFlag = ErrorFlag_In;
if EngineData > RPM_HIGH
ErrorFlag = bitor(ErrorFlag,HIGHRPMFAULT);
end
if EngineData < RPM_LOW
ErrorFlag = bitor(ErrorFlag,LOWRPMFAULT);
end
end
function ErrorFlag = WheelFaultEvaluation(WheelData,ErrorFlag_In)
%#codegen
SLIP_HIGH = 1000;
WHEELSLIP = 2^3;
ErrorFlag = ErrorFlag_In;
if WheelData > SLIP_HIGH
ErrorFlag = bitor(ErrorFlag,WHEELSLIP);
end
end

【Incorrect】
This type of pattern cannot be used when the rule is applied.

function EngineFaultEvaluation(EngineData)
%#codegen
global ErrorFlag_DataStore
RPM_HIGH = 10000;
RPM_LOW = 10;
HIGHRPMFAULT = 2^1;
LOWRPMFAULT = 2^2;
if EngineData > RPM_HIGH
ErrorFlag_DataStore =
bitor(ErrorFlag_DataStore,HIGHRPMFAULT);
end
if EngineData < RPM_LOW
ErrorFlag_DataStore =
bitor(ErrorFlag_DataStore,LOWRPMFAULT);
end
end

212
 function WheelFaultEvaluation(WheelData)
%#codegen
global ErrorFlag_DataStore
SLIP_HIGH = 1000;
WHEELSLIP = 2^3;
if WheelData > SLIP_HIGH
ErrorFlag_DataStore =
bitor(ErrorFlag_DataStore,WHEELSLIP);
end
end
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 When a data store is used, the readability of the data flow decreases and can lead
a
to errors in the update reference timing.

na_0031: Definition of default enumerated value

Rule ID: Title na_0031: Definition of default enumerated value
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Method getDefaultValue shall be used to explicitly -
define the default value of an enumeration.
【Correct】

【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub ID Description

213
  When an enumerated type does not have a clearly defined a default value, the first
a enumeration string that is described will be defined as the default, which may not be
as intended.

na_0034: MATLAB Function block input/output settings

Rule ID: Title na_0034: MATLAB Function block input/output settings
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The data type in the model explorer shall be defined for -
all input and output to [MATLAB Function].
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Defining the data type for all input and output to [MATLAB Function] helps prevent
a
simulation errors and unexpected behavior.

MATLAB Usage
na_0016: Source lines of MATALAB Functions
Rule ID: Title na_0016: Source lines of MATALAB Functions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a The length of MATLAB functions shall be limited. This Maximum effective lines
restriction applies to MATLAB Functions that reside in the of code per function
Simulink block diagram and external MATLAB files with
a .m extension.

The recommended limit is 60 lines of code. Subfunctions

may use an additional 60 lines of code.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
 Improves readability and workflow
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

na_0017: Number of called function levels

Rule ID: Title na_0017: Number of called function levels
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter

214
 a The number of sub-function levels shall be limited, Maximum function call
typically to three levels. levels

MATLAB function blocks that resides at the Simulink

block diagram level counts as the first level, unless it is
simply a wrapper for an external MATLAB file with a .m
extension.

This includes functions that are defined within the

MATLAB block and those in separate .m files.

Standard utility functions, such as built in functions like

sqrt or log, are not included in the number of levels.
Likewise, commonly used custom utility functions can be
excluded from the number of levels.
Rationale
Sub ID Description
a  Improves readability and testability

na_0021: Strings in MATLAB functions

Rule ID: Title na_0021: Strings in MATLAB functions
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a Assignment statements for strings shall not be used in -
MATLAB functions.
【Incorrect】
An assignment statement for strings is being used in the MATLAB function.

215
 Rationale
Sub ID Description
 MATLAB functions store strings as character arrays.
As a result, storing strings of different lengths in the same variable does not support
a
dynamic memory allocation, which prevents the strings from being stored.
(Consider using enumerated types when a string is used in [Switch Case])

na_0022: Recommended patters for Switch/Case statements

Rule ID: Title na_0022: Recommended patters for Switch/Case statements
Sub ID Recommendations NA-MAAB: a
JMAAB: Not supported
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub Description Custom
ID Parameter
a Switch / Case statements shall use constant values for the “Case” arguments. -
Input variables shall not be used in the “Case” arguments.

【Correct】

216
 【Incorrect】

Rationale
Sub Description
ID
 Improves model simulation and testability.
a
 Code generation may not be possible.

jc_0801: Prohibited use of the /* and */ comment symbols

Rule ID: Title jc_0801: Prohibited use of the /* and */ comment symbols
Sub ID NA-MAAB: a
Recommendations JMAAB: a
MATLAB® Version All
Rule
Sub ID Description Custom Parameter
a As comment symbols /* and */ are automatically assigned -
in the generated code, the symbol shall not be used in:
 cgt file
 mpt Signal description
 mpt parameter description
【Incorrect】
In a cgt file.

217
 【Incorrect】
mpt Signal description (the same also applies to mpt.Parameter).

0011
Rationale
Sub ID Description
Since comment symbols /* and */ are automatically assigned in the generated code,
a
comments can be unintentionally nested and behave differently than expected.

218
6. Glossary
This section provides clarification of terms that are used in the guidelines.

Terms Definition
When modifications have not been made, this term refers to constants
Parameters
that are defined in the base workspace/model workspace.
Built-in MATLAB MATLAB functions and scripts.
functions
Reserved MATLAB
words
All blocks (Type=Block), including:
• Subsystems
• Models
Block • charts (unless otherwise stated).
Standard Simulink library blocks are divided into two categories:
• Basic blocks
• Structural subsystems.
Built-in blocks in the standard Simulink library.
Blocks with undefined internal processing, such as subsystems, are not
considered basic blocks.

Basic blocks can include:

Basic Blocks

[Subsystems], [models], [charts], and [MATLAB functions] are

Structural
frameworks for defining the structure, blocks with user-defined internal
subsystem
processing.
A subsystem that can be internally modeled by using Simulink basic
projection.
Even if {BlockType} is "subsystem", [Chart], [MATLAB Function], etc.
Subsystem
blocks that describe the inside (other than Simulink basic projection) are
not included.
[Model] is not included.
Conditional A subsystem with conditional input ports.
subsystem
A {BlockType} that is a “subsystem” and executes the structural
subsystem as a single unit.
Atomic subsystem
Conditional subsystems, [Chart], and [MATLAB Function] are considered
atomic subsystems.
The input/output port labels of a structural subsystem.
The names of [Inport] and [Outport] blocks are placed in a subsystem by
Port label name default.
Names of Stateflow input/output data are displayed by default.
The display option can be changed when masking a subsystem.
219
Conditional input Includes [Trigger], [Enable], [Function Call], and [Reset].
block
Two meanings:
1. The previous value reference block that is placed in the loop
route to specify the execution order in an algebraic loop (circular
Delay block reference). Uses [Unit Delay] and [Memory].
(As of R201b at later) [Delay] blocks can also be used
2. A block that retains past values. Uses [Unit Delay], [Memory],
[Delay], and [Tapped Delay].
Blocks with “Sum” {BlockType} that carry out addition and subtraction
Calculation block
operations. Includes [Sum], [Add], [Subtract], and [Sum of Elements].
Blocks with “Product” {BlockType} that carry out division and
Multiplication and
multiplication operations. Includes [Product], [Divide] and [Product of
division block
Elements].
Stateflow block Includes [Chart], [State Transition Table], and [Truth Table].
Machine level .
The part of a model that describes the action for the transition condition
by using transition conditions and condition actions. The start point is the
default transition line or internal transition line. The end point is the
Flow chart connective junction. Does not include states that are between the start
and end points.
Graphical functions and the inside of states can be modelled as flow
charts.
State action type Basic state action types and combined state action types.
Basic state action Types include entry(en), during(du), and exit(ex).
type
A combination of two or more of these basic state action types:
• entry(en), during(du)
Combined state
• during(du), exit(ex)
action type
• entry(en), exit(ex)
• entry(en), during(du), exit(ex)
State An atomic subchart is considered a state.

220
7. Determining Guideline Operation Rules
This section provides general information about identifying which guidelines to adopt and the application
of these guidelines to your project.

Process Definition and Development Environment

The model base development that utilizes simulation is suitable for developing a safe product. However,
this does not mean that a system is safe simply because the design can be simulated. While high quality
control and functions is necessary, the process definition and development environment being used is
equally important. The foundation for a safe system is determined at the start of the project, long before
development begins.

MATLAB/Simulink Version
The version of MATLAB/Simulink used at each development stage is determined at the start of the
project. That version must be used by everyone during that development stage.
Different MATLAB versions can be used for different stages in the development process. For example,
you can generate and verify the code in R2017b and then use Simulink Design Verifier to develop test
cases R2020a.
It is necessary to regularly check the bug report published by MathWorks
(https://www.mathworks.com/support/bugreports). Depending on the bug, a version change may be
required; a decision that can be reversed if necessary. During this evaluation, it is important to consider

Deleted Simulink
Check Chapters.msg
risk from both:
• Malfunctions that result from a bug
• Result from upgrading the version.
It is necessary to always have a process that allows adaptation to the latest version and to appropriately
evaluate and judge what is the safest option.

MATLAB/Simulink Settings
MATLAB/Simulink settings shall adhere to the project. It is important that Simulink settings that affect
appearance are applied consistently across the project.

Options to be unified are listed below.

 Simulink environment settings
o New model standard font settings (block, line, annotation)
 Mask (Edit mask)
o Icons and Ports
 Information display
o Library links
o Sample Time
o (Block) Sorted execution order
o (Signals and ports) Wide Non-scalar Lines
o (Signals and ports) Port data types

See guidelines: na_0004 and db_0043

Usable Blocks
There are many blocks in Simulink, however, not all are suitable for all aspects of a project. For
example, only some blocks are suitable for generating production-quality code. Or, depending on the
block, a function using a combination of basic blocks can be represented by using one block. Usable
blocks and design should be defined and limited to the requirements and specifications of the project.

221
Note: Significantly limiting the number of available blocks can cause adverse effects, such decreased
readability due to variation within the descriptions for the same function, decreased code efficiency, and
increased user libraries.

Note: You must register custom blocks in the project’s user library.

 See guideline db_0143 for defining usable blocks

Using Optimization and Configuration Parameters

Optimization parameters
Optimization options significantly affect generated code. Closely evaluate and apply the optimization
options with regards to how they impact the security and safety considerations for your project or
product.
An example of how optimization parameters can impact a process:
For embedded automotive products, it is critical that processing time is fast and RAM/ROM
requirement are minimal. To accommodate these requirements, optimization parameters are applied on
the “Conditional Input Branch Execution” pane. These optimization parameters improve the computation
rate by executing only where the condition holds during execution of the conditional branch by using
[Switch].
In contrast, for the aviation industry, this pane is disabled because stabilizing the execution speed is
key. Calculation on both sides is preferred in order to maintain a stable computation time, even if
calculation is needed only on the side where the condition holds.

Configuration Parameters
 Hardware implementation settings
Describes model system hardware characteristics, including products and test hardware
configuration setup for simulation and code generation.
Configure these parameters so they are compatible with the microcomputer that the project uses.
Unintended utility functions can be inserted if signed integer division rounding is undefined.

 Model reference settings

Specified when using model references.
Refers to options to include other models in this model, options to include this model in another
model, and build options of simulation and code generation targets.

 Simulation target setting

Configures a simulation target of a model with [MATLAB Function], [Stateflow], or [Truth Table].

 High-integrity configuration Settings

Please refer to the MathWorks High-Integrity System Modeling Guidelines (hisl) for additional
information the configuration settings.

 Code Generation Configuration Settings

Please refer to the MathWorks Code Generation Modeling Guidelines (cgsl) for additional information
the configuration settings

Applying Guidelines for a Project

Using the model analysis process when applying guidelines
Model design specification should be defined prior to reviewing the guidelines. Doing so makes the
process of determining which guidelines to apply and the implementation of the guidelines more efficient.
For example, the analysis of a simple model can use [SLDiagnostics] to investigate how often a
specific block is used. Adjust the operation rules list by specifying blocks that are frequently used and
those that aren’t.
Furthermore, reusability at a later stage is improved by adding rules that:

222
 • Unify description styles
• Anticipate in advance the man-hours needed to correct models
• Measuring tendencies, such as where to place blocks that have feedback status variables ([Unit
Delay]), whether [Unit Delay] should be inside or outside the subsystem, or whether [Abs] should
be set on the output side of the subsystem, and if it should process at the input side after
receiving a signal.

Adoption of the guideline rule and process settings

At the start of the project, it should be determined which guidelines apply to each development
process. The guidelines should be evaluated and applied so that they correspond with the development
process. Considerations may include questions such as:
• Will the guideline be applied only at the code generation stage?
• Will the adopted guideline rule change for each process stage?

Setting the guideline rule application field and the clarifying the exclusion condition
The field to which the guidelines apply must be determined. For example, guidelines can be:
• Limited to a model that represents the AUTOSAR field of application
• Applied to a general software field, such as where models implement interrupts (add processes
that prohibit interruption during calculation).
• Specific to fields where general engineers edit the models. The intention of these rules is to
ensure that the models are easily understandable in those fields.
Note: Specialized fields can be excluded from the constraints of these guidelines by limiting the
scope and applying unique set of guidelines that are specific in this environment.

Specialized fields, such as those where modelers design custom library blocks, are not fields that are
typically targeted by these guidelines.

Furthermore, when having a control model that is operated with Rapid Control Prototyping (RCP), the
entire model should not be set as a target; instead, the field needs to be limited. It is necessary to
generate the code and review the areas that are implemented in the built-in microcomputer as well as
the areas that are not. These guidelines do not apply to control models such as those scheduler models
that are made solely for RCP and are not implemented, or for interface sections with blocks that
correspond to drivers such as CAN and PWM signals for operating actual machines.

Parameter recommendations in the guidelines

Guidelines should not be adopted as they are written without further evaluation.
Implementation of guideline rules and parameter recommendations should be evaluated to determine
the impact on the project and the development processes being used. In addition, consideration needs
to be taken as to the effect on other guidelines and how applying custom parameters can affect
simulation or code generation.

Verifying adherence to the guidelines

At the beginning of a project, it is important to determine how and when the project will be evaluated to
ensure adherence to the guidelines.
The decision whether to use an automated checking mechanism (third part or internal) or perform
manual checks is very important. Also, the stage at which the checks occur, as well as developing a
system for revising the check rule criteria, is important.
Automated checking can significantly reduce the time required for review. It is recommended that an
additional, manual review also be performed by a skilled person, even if everything can be checked
automatically.

Modifying adherence to a guideline

The decision to apply a guideline or a rule can change. When doing so, it is important to specify a
process and procedure for determine the root cause of the request and evaluate the potential impact the
change can have on the project and the organization.

223
 When evaluating the change request, first listen to the needs of the modeler and determine the root
cause of the request. When the request is based on the user not understanding block usage or a
guideline rule, training should occur instead of revising the rule.
The procedure to relax the rules as needed should be implemented when there are restrictions due to
company objectives and control specifications or hardware (such as microcomputers).

224
8. Model Architecture Explanation
This section provides a high-level overview of model architecture that is suitable for model-based
development without specifying specific rules.

Roles of Simulink and Stateflow

When using Stateflow, Simulink is required for inputs, outputs, and structuring. Stateflow alone can
perform a variety of formula processing. When using Simulink, complex state variables can be realized
through methods such as [Switch Case].

Either Simulink or Stateflow can be used to model specific parts of control, however, the application of
either product in the development workflow is based on the user’s understanding of the underlying
algorithms and, ultimately, comes down to the organization to determine which tool is best suited for their
needs. Determining whether Simulink or Stateflow should be used for design should be determined by a
group of people in accordance with the task. Whether implementation in Stateflow is done by using state
transitions or with flow charts should also be specified.

In most cases, Stateflow is less efficient with regards to RAM. Therefore, Simulink has an advantage in
computations that use simple formulas. In addition, Simulink is more advantageous for situations where
state variables are operated with simple flip-flops and [Relay]. When evaluating whether to use Simulink
or Stateflow in a project, these topics should be taken into consideration:
• Increasing RAM: There must always be a RAM available for visualization of Stateflow inputs, outputs
and internal variables.
• Equation error handling: When general computational formulas are used internally, the user designs
ways to prevent overflow.
• Splitting and separating functions: When performing calculations that use Simulink outside of
Stateflow, there is a possibility that they may split, thus reducing readability. There are also times
where readability may improve. This can be difficult to judge.

There are cases where Stateflow has more efficient code than Simulink for optimum expressions that
are close to code, but most of these result in a model that is difficult to understand. If code already exists,
it is more advantageous to use S-functions instead of Stateflow modelling. Stateflow can note
computations where specific arrangements are specified, or computations using for-loops, more efficiently
than Simulink, but in recent years it has also become convenient to use MATLAB language for
descriptions. If needed, consider using MATLAB language for modelling.

For Stateflow models, when dealing with states as described below, readability improves by describing
them as state transitions:
• Different output values are output for identical inputs.
• Multiple states exist (as a guide, three or more).
• States with meaningful names instead of just numbers.
• Inside a state, initialization (first time) and differentiation during execution (after the second time)
is required.
For instance, in flip-flop circuits, different values are outputted for inputs. State variables are limited to 0
and 1. However, a meaningful name cannot be added to each state simply by retaining Boolean type
numbers. There is also no distinction between initialization and execution within the state. Thus, only one
flip-flop applies out of the four above, so Simulink can be said to be more beneficial.

In Stateflow, situations that can be represented as states are implemented as state transitions and
conditional branches that are not states are implemented as flow charts. Truth tables are classified as a
conditional branch implementation method.

When designing states as state transitions by using Stateflow, “Classic” should be selected as the state
machine type so that it is implemented as software into the control system’s embedded micro controller.

HDL Coder is supported by Stateflow. If using HDL Coder, Mealy or Moore must be selected., Moore
mode is more appropriate when protection is required against internal electric leaks.
Note: HDL Coder use cases are not described in these guidelines.
225
 Hierarchical Structure of a Controller Model
This section provides a high-level overview of the hierarchical structuring in a basic model, using a
controller model as an example.

Types of Hierarchies

This table defines the layer concepts in a hierarchy.

Layer concept Layer purpose
Top Function layer Broad functional division
Layer Schedule layer Expression of execution timing (sampling, order)
Bottom Sub function layer Detailed function division
Layer Control flow layer Division according to processing order (input →
judgment → output, etc.)
Selection layer Division (select output with Merge) into a format
that switches and activates the active subsystem
Data flow layer Layer that performs one calculation that cannot
be divided

When applying layer concepts:

• Layer concepts shall be assigned to layers and subsystems shall be divided accordingly.
• When a layer concepts is not needed, it does not need to be allocated to a layer.
• Multiple layer concepts can be allocated to one layer.

When building hierarchies, division into subsystems for the purpose of saving space within the layer shall
be avoided.

Top Layer
Layout methods for the top layer include:
• Simple control model — Represents both the function layer and schedule layer in the same layer.
Here, function = execution unit. For example, a control model has only one sampling cycle and all
functions are arranged in execution order
• Complex control model Type α — The schedule layer is positioned at the top. This method makes
integration with the code easy, but functions are divided, and the readability of the model is
impaired.
• Complex control model Type β — Function layers are arranged at the top and schedule layers are
positioned below the individual function layers.

226
 Example Schedule layer
Type α
Function layer Function layer

C1 C2
S1
S2

Subsystem for low speed Subsystem for high speed

operation operation
Example Function layer
Type β
Schedule layer Schedule layer

S1 C1
S2 C2

Sensing function subsystem Control function subsystem

The thick frame is an Atomic setting

Function Layers and Sub-Function Layers

When modeling function and sub-function layers:
• Subsystems shall be divided by function, with the respective subsystems representing
one function.
• ‟One functionˮ is not always an execution unit so, for that reason, the respective subsystem is not
necessarily an atomic subsystem. In the type β example below, it is more appropriate for a function
layer subsystem to be a virtual subsystem. Algebraic loops are created when these change into
atomic subsystems.
• Individual functional units shall be described.
• When the model includes multiple large functions, consider using model references for each function
to partition the model.

227
 Example Schedule layer
Type α
Function layer Function layer

C1 C2
S1
S2

Subsystem for low speed Subsystem for high speed

operation operation
Example Function layer
Type β
Schedule layer Schedule layer

S1 C1
S2 C2

Sensing function subsystem Control function subsystem

Schedule Layers
When scheduling layers:
• System sampling intervals and execution priority shall be set. Use caution when setting multiple
sampling intervals. In connected systems with varying sampling intervals, ensure that the system
is split for each sampling interval. This minimizes the RAM needed to store previous values in
the situation where the processing of signals values differs for fast cycles and slow cycles.
• Priority ranking shall be set. This is important when designing multiple, independent functions.
When possible, computation sequence for all subsystems should be based on subsystem
connections.
• Two different types of priority rankings shall be set, one for different sampling intervals and the
other for identical sampling rates.

There are two types of methods that can be used for setting sampling intervals and priority rankings:
• For subsystems and blocks, set the block parameter {sample time} and block properties
{priority}.
• When using conditional subsystems, set independent priority rankings to match the scheduler.

Patterns exist for many different conditions, such as the configuration parameters for custom
sampling intervals, atomic subsystem settings, and the use of model references. The use of a
specific pattern is closely linked to the code implementation method and varies significantly
depending on the status of the project.
Models that are typically affected include:
• Models that have multiple sampling intervals
• Models that have multiple independent functions
• Usage of model references
• Number of models (and whether there is more than one set of generated code)
• For the generated code, affected factors include:
o Applicability of a real-time OS
o Consistency of usable sampling intervals and computation cycles to be implemented
o Applicable area (application domain or basic software)
o Source code type: AUTOSAR compliant - not compliant - not supported.

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 o RAM, ROM margins (specifically RAM)

Control Flow Layers

In the hierarchy, the control layer expresses all input processing, intermediate processing, and output
processing by using one function. The arrangement of blocks and subsystems is important in this layer.
Multiple, mixed small functions should be grouped by dividing them between the three largest stages of
input processing, intermediate processing and output processing, which forms the conceptual basis of
control. The general configuration occurs close to the data flow layer and is represented in the horizontal
line. The difference in a data flow layer is its construction from multiple subsystems and blocks.
In control flow layers, the horizontal direction indicates processing with different significance; blocks
with the same significance are arranged vertically.

Input Intermediate Output

processing processing processing

Block groups are arranged horizontally and are given a provisional meaning. Red borders, which
signify the delimiter for processing that is not visible, correspond to objects called virtual objects. Using
annotations to mark the delimiters makes it easier to understand.

Intermediate Output
processing processing

Input
processing

Control flow layers can co-exist with blocks that have a function. They are positioned between the sub-
function layer and the data flow layer.

229
Control flow layers are used when:
- The number of blocks becomes too large
- All is described in the data flow layer
- Units that can be given a minimum partial meaning are made into subsystems

Placement in the hierarchy organizes the internal layer configuration and makes it easier to understand. It
also improves maintainability by avoiding the creation of unnecessary layers.

When the model consists solely of blocks and does not include a mix of subsystems, if the horizontal
layout can be split into input/intermediate/output processing, it is considered a control flow layer.

Selection Layers
When modeling selection layers:
• Selection layers should be written vertically or side-by-side. There is no significance to which
orientation is chosen.
• Selection layers shall mix with control flow layers.

When a subsystem has switch functions that allow only one subsystem to run depending on the
conditional control flow inside the red border, it is referred to as a selection layer. It is also described as
a control flow layer because it structures input processing/intermediate processing (conditional control
flow)/output processing.
In the control flow layer, the horizontal direction indicates processing with different significance. Parallel
processing with the same significance is structured vertically. In selection layers, no significance is
attached to the horizontal or vertical direction, but they show layers where only one subsystem can run.

For example:
 Switching coupled functions to run upwards or downwards, changing chronological order
 Switching the setting where the computation type switches after the first time (immediately after
reset) and the second time
 Switching between destination A and destination B

Layer with a conditional

control flow layer description is
represented as a selection
layer.

The horizontal
sequence
control flow layer

230
 Data Flow Layers
A data flow layer is the layer below the control flow layer and selection layer.
A data flow layer represents one function as a whole; input processing, intermediate processing and
output processing are not divided. For instance, systems that perform one continuous computation that
cannot be split.
Data flow layers cannot co-exist with subsystems apart from those where exclusion conditions apply.
Exclusion conditions include:
• Subsystems where reusable functions are set
• Masked subsystems that are registered in the Simulink standard library
• Masked subsystems that are registered in a library by the user

Example of a simple data flow layer

Example of a complex data flow layer

When input processing and intermediate processing cannot be clearly divided as described above,
they are represented as a data flow layer.
A data flow layer becomes complicated when both the feed forward reply and feedback reply from the
same signal are computed at the same time. Even when the number of blocks in this type of cases is
large, the creation of a subsystem should not be included in the design when the functions cannot be
clearly divided. When meaning is attached through division, it should be designed as a control flow layer.

Relationship between Simulink Models and Embedded

Implementation
Running an actual micro controller requires embedding the code that is generated from the Simulink
model into the micro controller. This requirement affects the configuration Simulink model and is
dependent on:
• The extent to which the Simulink model will model the functions
• How the generated code is embedded
• The schedule settings on the embedded micro controller

The configuration is affected significantly when the tasks of the embedded micro controller differs from
those modeled by Simulink.

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8.3.1.1. Scheduler Settings in Embedded Software
The scheduler in embedded software has single-task and multi-task settings.

Single-task schedule settings

A single-task scheduler performs all processing by using basic sampling. Therefore, when processing
of longer sampling is needed, the function is split so the CPU load is as evenly distributed as possible,
and then processed using basic sampling. However, as equal splitting is not always possible, functions
may not be able to be allocated to all cycles.
For example, basic sampling is 2 msec, and sampling rates of 2 msec, 8 msec and 10 msec exist
within the model. An 8 msec function is executed once for every four 2 msec cycles, and a 10 msec
function is executed once for every five. The number of executions is counted every 2 msec and the
sampling function specified by this frequency is executed. Attention needs to be paid to the fact that the
2 msec, 8 msec and 10 msec cycles are all computed with the same 2 msec. Because all computations
need to be completed within 2 msec, the 8 msec and 10 msec functions are split into several and
adjusted so that all 2 msec computations are of an almost equal volume.
The following diagram shows the 10 msec function split into 5, and the 8 msec function split into 4.

Functions Fundamental Offset

frequency
8msec 0msec
2-2 8msec 2msec
2-3 8msec 4msec
2-4 8msec 6msec

Functions Fundamental Offset

frequency
3-1 10msec 0msec
3-2 10msec 2msec
3-3 10msec 4msec
3-4 10msec 6msec
3-5 10msec 8msec

All computations must be

2msec
contained within the 2 msec
8msec cycle.
10msec

Function 1
Function 2 -1
-2
-3
-4
Function 3 -1
-2
-3
-4
-5

To set frequency-divided tasking:

1. Set configuration parameter {Tasking mode for periodic sample times} to “Single Tasking” for
Simulink task setting.

232
 2. Enter sampling period, offset” values in the subsystem block {Sample Time}” field. A subsystem for
which a sampling period can be specified is an atomic subsystem.

Multi-task scheduler settings

Multi-task sampling is executed by using a real-time OS that supports multi-task sampling. In single-
task sampling, equalizing the CPU load is not done automatically, but a person divides the functions and
allocates them to the appointed task. In multi-task sampling, the CPU performs the computations
automatically in line with the current status; there is no need to set detailed settings. Computations are
performed and results are output starting from the task with the highest priority, but the task priorities are
user-specified. Typically, fast tasks are assigned highest priority. The execution order for this task is
user-specified.

2msec
8msec
10msec

Function 1
Function 2
Function 3

It is important that computations are completed within the cycle, including slow tasks. When the
processing of a high priority computation finishes and the CPU is available, the computation for the
system with the next priority ranking begins. A high priority computation process can interrupt a low
priority computation, which is then aborted so the high priority computation process can execute first.

233
8.3.1.2. Effect of Connecting Subsystems with Sampling Differences
If subsystem B with a 20 msec sampling interval uses the output of subsystem A with a 10 msec
sampling interval, the output result of subsystem A can change while subsystem B is computing. If the
values change partway through, the results of subsystem B’s computation may not be as expected. For
example, a comparison is made in subsystem B’s first computation with the subsystem A output, and the
result is computed with the conditional judgment based on this output. At this point, the comparison
result is true. It is then compared again at the end of subsystem B; if the output from A is different, then
the result of the comparison can be false. Generally, in this type of function development it may happen
that the logic created with true, true has become true, false, and an unexpected computation result is
generated. To avoid this type of malfunction, when there is a change in task, output results from
subsystem A are fixed immediately before they are used by subsystem B as they are used in a different
RAM from that used by the subsystem A output signals. In other words, even if subsystem A values
change during the process, the values that subsystem B are looking at is in a different RAM, so no effect
is apparent.
When a model is created in Simulink and a subsystem is connected that has a different sampling
interval in Simulink, Simulink automatically reserves the required RAM.
However, if input values are obtained with a different sampling interval through integration with hand-
coded code, the engineer who does the embedding work should design these settings. For example, in
the RTW concept using AUTOSAR, different RAMs are all defined at the receiving and exporting side.

2msec
8msec
10msec
If Function 2 uses computation results of
Function 1, computation results for Function
Function 1 1 do not change during computation for
Function 2 -1 Functions 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, but there is a
-2 possibility that Functions 2-1, 2-2, 2-3 use
-3 different values that have been computed on
-4 the respective different time axes.
Function 3 -1
-2 A different RAM should be allocated for signal
-3 values with a different rate.
-4
-5

Single-task scheduler settings

Signal values are the same within the same 2 msec cycle, but when there are different 2 msec cycles,
the computation value differs from the preceding one. When Function 2-1 and 2-2 uses signal A of
Function 1, be aware that 2-1 and 2-2 uses results from different times.

Multi-task scheduler settings

For multi-task, you cannot specify at what point to use the computation result to use. With multi-task,
always store signals for different tasks in new RAM.
Before new computations are performed within the task, all values are copied.

234
 2msec
If Function 2 uses
8msec computation results of
Function 1, it is possible that
10msec
computation results from
Do not immediately Function 1 will replace them
use values that are while Function 2 is
Function 1 being updated. computing.
Function 2 For that reason,
computation results that
Function 3 vary at the point when
computation starts for each
The value should be held at the sampling are generally
beginning of the task. stored in a different RAM.

235
9. Appendices
Simulink Functions
9.1.1.1. Blocks with State Variables
Blocks with state variables are primarily grouped into Simulink and discrete types.
For most of these blocks, the user can set the state attributes and initial values by using the block
parameters. A conditional subsystem can have state variables, depending on the structure pattern.

In this example, [Unit Delay] has State Attributes.

In this example, [Tapped Delay] does not have State Attributes.

See guideline: jc_0640

236
9.1.1.2. Branch Syntax with State Variables
[Switch] and conditional subsystems behave differently when state variables are used.
Depending on the configuration setting, when any state variable exists, [Switch] generally executes
subsystem A when the condition of the control port is satisfied. If the condition is not satisfied, it
executes only subsystem B without calculating subsystem A. However, when the subsystem A
contains a state variable, calculation for the state variable within the subsystem A is processed even
when the conditions of the control port are not satisfied.

In the conditional subsystem, subsystem A is calculated when the condition is satisfied. When is not
satisfied, subsystem B is calculated instead of subsystem A, regardless of the existence of any state
variables in subsystem A.

The reset action in a recalculation can be specified by using the {Action Port} setting.

The behavior of subsystem A when using [Switch] and a conditional control flow is listed in the
following tables. Familiarize yourself with these behaviors to determine which structure, [Switch], or
conditional subsystem is most suitable for the intended purpose.

Behavior of subsystem A
Control (in subsystem A) Switch Conditional
port State variables subsystem
condition
Hold No Executed Executed
Yes
Not hold No Not executed Not executed
Yes Minimally-processed
*Executed calculations related to the
state variables

Initialization timing of subsystem A

ActionPort Initialize
Switch － First time only
Conditional subsystem Hold First time only
Reset At returned by condition
237
 See guidelines: jc_0656 and jc_0657

9.1.1.3. Subsystem
A subsystem is used for compiling various blocks and subsystems.

Subsystems can also be used for other purposes. Usage methods that are not functional subsystems
include:
• Mask display of the subsystem is used to describe the outline or display fixed form documents,
such as "classified"
• The open functions (callback functions in the block properties) of the subsystem is used for
running several tools or displaying explanatory text separate from the model
• Subsystems whose setting have changed to a mask subsystem (a subsystem that was simply
set to NoReadOrWrite) by a user with administrative rights to make a change, but other users
cannot see the content.

These non-typical subsystems are outside of the scope of the guidelines and, if excluded, should be
put on an exclusion list managed within the project.

See guidelines: jc_0201, jc_0243, db_0143, db_0144, db_0141, jc_0653, jc_0171, jc_0602, jc_0081,
db_0081

9.1.1.4. Signal Name

Signals can be named and are referred to as signal names. When a signal is named, that signal
name is displayed as a label. Updates to labels are reflected in the signal name and are also
displayed.
The signal name can be propagated to a signal line via a branched signal line or port block and
displayed as a signal name.

See guidelines: jc_0222 and jc_0245

Code can be generated by associating a signal name with a signal object (Simulink object or mpt
object). Type setting is configured through the data dictionary, setting of the storage class is optional.
The recommended data type settings for these blocks include:
 For [Inport], set the {Data type} to ”auto”
 For [Outport], set the {Data type} to ”auto”
 For [Sum], set the output {Data type} to ”Inherit via back propagation”

See guideline: jc_0644

9.1.1.5. Vector Signals/Path Signal

Individual scholar signals that compose a vector shall have common functions, data type, and units.

Signals that do not fulfill the conditions as a vector can only be grouped as a bus signal. [Bus
Selector] shall be used only with bus signal inputs. It shall not be used to extract a scholar signal from
a vector signal.

Example
The following is an example of a vector signal:
Types of vector Size

Row vector [1 n]

Column vector [n 1]

Wheel speed subsystem [1 wheel number]

238
 Types of vector Size

Cylinder vector [1 cylinder number]

Location vector based on a 2-dimensional coordination [1 2]

points
Location vector based on 3-dimensional coordination [1 3]
points

The following is an example of a bus signal:

Bus type Factor

Sensor bus Force vectors

Location

Wheel speed vector [Θlf, Θrf, Θlr, Θrr]

Acceleration

Pressure

Controller bus Sensor bus

Actuator bus

Serial data bus Circulating water temperature

Engine speed, front passenger seat door open

See guidelines: na_0010, jc_0222, jc_0245, db_0097, jc_0630, and jc_0659

9.1.1.6. Enumerated Types

"Enumerated type data refers to data that is restricted to a determined numerical value.
The type of blocks that can be used in an enumerated type in Simulink is limited.
To use an enumerated type, you must define the enumerate type by using .m file on MATLAB. For
additional information about defining enumeration data types, refer to the Simulink user help “Use
Enumerated Data in Simulink Models.

Stateflow Functions
9.2.1.1. Operators Available for Stateflow
For additional information about the Stateflow operators, see “ Supported Operations for Chart Data”
in the Stateflow user help.
Related ID: na_0001, jc_0655

9.2.1.2. Differences Between State Transition and Flow Chart

Stateflow can represent both a state transition and a flow chart.

Stateflow allows a flow chart to be designed within a state transition diagram.

An entry action is represented as a flow chart in a state, which starts from a default transition and
moves to junctions through transition lines, as illustrated below. Starting from an internal transition line
allows a during action to be represented in the flow chart.

A flow chart cannot maintain its active state between updates. As a result, a flow chart always ends
at a “terminating junction” (a connective junction that has no valid outgoing transitions).
239
 In contrast, a state transition diagram stores its current state in memory to preserve local data and
active state between updates. As a result, state transition diagrams can begin executing where they
left off in the previous time step. This means that state transitions are suitable for modeling reactive or
supervisory systems that depend on history.

Flow chart and state transition diagram

Start point End point
Flow chart Default transition All terminations from the state are connected to the
Or, connective junction.
State transition Default transition Either termination should be connected to the state
diagram Or,

Difference between a general flow chart and state transition diagram

Flow Chart

Flow chart outside a state Flow chart inside a state

State Transition Diagram

State transition outside a state State transition inside a state

Mixture of flow charts and state transition diagrams with self-transition has more strict constraints.
240
 Example of flow chart with self-transition
State Transition Diagram

Self transition outside a state Self transition inside a state

State transition
diagram

A self transition is formed outside a A self transition is formed inside a

state and then reset after execution. state and then reset using a during
action.

See guidelines: db_0132 and jc_0752

9.2.1.3. Backtrack
This example shows the behavior of transitions with junctions that force backtracking behavior in flow
charts. The chart uses implicit ordering of outgoing transitions.

Initially, state A is active and transition conditions c1, c2, and c3 are true and c4 is false:
1. The chart root checks to see if there is a valid transition from state A.
There is a valid transition segment marked with the transition condition c1 from state A to a
connective junction.
2. Transition condition c1 is true, so action a1 executes.
3. Transition condition c3 is true, so action a3 executes.
4. Transition condition c4 is not true and, therefore, the control flow backtracks to state A.
5. The chart root checks to see if there is another valid transition from state A.
There is a valid transition segment marked with the transition condition c2 from state A to a
connective junction.
6. Transition condition c2 is true, so action a2 executes.
7. Transition condition c3 is true, so action a3 executes.
8. Transition condition c4 is not true and, therefore, the control flow backtracks to state A.
9. The chart goes to sleep.

To resolve this issue, consider adding unconditional transition lines to terminating junctions.
The terminating junctions allow flow to end if either c3 or c4 is not true. This design leaves state A
active without executing unnecessary actions.

241
 See guidelines: jc_0751 and jc_0773

9.2.1.4. Flow Chart Outside the State

A flow chart associated with a state can be written inside or outside of the state; however, be
attentive to the execution order and backtracking.
The following flow chart, which evaluates transition from a to b after executing the flow chart outside
the state, appears to execute the transition within the same period as that of a newer calculation.
However, the transition line to b is not evaluated if the termination point is reached by calculating the
transition outside the state. This is a state transition diagram which always stays at a.

Done correctly, as with the line below, embed a transition condition that is intentionally not positioned
at the termination of the external flow chart; it should be described so that the transition line from a to b
is evaluated after the flow chart has been executed.
This enables the external flow chart to execute before the transition, and to be evaluated using the
most recent value at the instant of the transition. Note that this chart contains a dead path where the
transition condition will never hold, which can cause an error when the specification is changed in the
future. Use this chart structure with caution.

242
 In contrast, the following flow chart is inside a state, which means that the internal flow chart is
always calculated when executing state a and can be described as an easily comprehensible structure
without dead paths.
However, it should be noted that, as a performance characteristic, when state a is executed, the
transition from a to b is evaluated in the cycle following that in which the internal flow chart is
calculated.
Due to this characteristic, the timing of the execution of calculations and transitions for the external
flow chart may be off. Use with caution.

See guidelines: jc_0751 and jc_0773

243
9.2.1.5. Pointer Variables
Describe using the example model sf_custom.

gMyStructVar is not defined in Stateflow.

Loading of C source code is set on the Code Generation pane of Configuration Parameter.
Normally, functions of my_function are called from C source for use in Stateflow.
However, direct reference to global variables exposed by the C source is also available from
Stateflow.

---------my_header.h--------------
#include "tmwtypes.h"

extern real_T my_function(real_T x);

/* Definition of custom type */

typedef struct {
real_T a;
int8_T b[10];
}MyStruct;

/* External declaration of a global struct variable */

extern MyStruct gMyStructVar;
extern MyStruct *gMyStructPointerVar;

---------------my_function.c--------------
#include "my_header.h"
#include <stdio.h>

/* Definition of global struct var */

MyStruct gMyStructVar;
MyStruct *gMyStructPointerVar=NULL;

real_T my_function(real_T x)
{
real_T y;

y=2*x;

return(y);
}

------------------------Inside of Stateflow -----------------------------

244
 Initialization
9.3.1.1. Initial Value Setting in Initialization
When a signal needs to be initialized, the initial values shall be set correctly.
When initial values are set inside a block, use an initial value list that includes annotations so you can
visually confirm the initial values input.

Cases that require initial values include:

• When state variables are defined AND blocks that have state variables are used.
o Use the internal block settings.
o Use the external input values.
• When state variables are defined AND initial values are enabled for a block when a specific
configuration is performed.
o Set initial values in Merge blocks.
o Use signals registered in the data dictionary.
• When signal settings (with RAM) have been defined that can be referenced from the outside.
o Use signals registered in the data dictionary.

9.3.1.2. Initial Values of Signals Registered in the Data Dictionary

Set initial values for signals registered in the data dictionary.

 Discrete block groups, such as [Unit Delay] and [Data Store Memory] have state variables.
In the case of automatic code generation, the signal name, type, and initial value can be set for
state variables by matching it to the signal in the data dictionary (associated with Simulink signal
objects). When using a signal defined in the data dictionary for a state variable, the respective initial
values should conform to the same value.

 When using a signal defined in the data dictionary for a state variable
For discrete blocks, such as a [Unit Delay] and [Data Store Memory], settings are performed not
when using signals defined in the data dictionary for the block output line, but for the state variables
inside the block. Even when the signal name of the data dictionary is assigned to the signal line,
RAM is reserved in duplicate, which is a waste of RAM.

245
 【Correct】 When the signal is defined for the 【Incorrect】 When the signal is defined for
state variables inside the block. the output signal of the block that has state
variables.

Signal line properties setting Signal line properties setting

Unit Delay properties setting

Unit Delay properties setting

Signal objects that are defined in the Workspace can be automatically associated with signal objects
and signal names of the same name by using disableimplicitsignalresolution (model
name. However, for state variables inside the block, they are associated with the state variables inside
the block and the signal name of the same name. If a globally set signal is associated with two
variables at the same time, it is better to perform settings so that the state variables inside a block and
the signal label on the signal line have different names, otherwise the model cannot be simulated.

9.3.1.3. Block Whose External Input Value is the Initial Value

When setting the initial value during initialization, the init function is called to set the signal to
either the value inside of the block or to the initial value that is defined in the data dictionary.
246
 Next, the step function (the data flow executive function) is executed. Here, the external input
value is set as the initial value.
When modelling, be attentive to the execution functions and execution timing for initialization.

Initialization explanation Differences in code behavior

1 sampling

init function
Set the specified initial
value to the signal

step function step function step function

Required
computation to
compute external function Functions
input value

Set the external

input value only Do not execute
for the first time after the second
time
function

9.3.1.4. Initial Value Settings in a System Configuration that Would Enable

Initialization Parameters
There are system configurations where, depending on their settings, initialization parameters are
enabled for combinations of conditional subsystems and [Merge]. When initial values are required in
theses combinations, either of the following modeling methods is performed:
 Set in [Outport]
 Set in [Merge]
 If an mpt signal is defined behind [Merge], set in mpt signal

Exception:
When there are successive blocks with initial values and the settings for each block are not needed
to clearly show the signal’s initial value.

【Correct】 Initial value set in [Merge]

247
【Correct】 Initial value set in mpt object

【Incorrect】 Despite the requirement for an initial value setting, it is not shown anywhere.

248
 Miscellaneous
9.4.1.1. Atomic Subsystems and Virtual Subsystems
There are two types of subsystems, Virtual subsystem and Atomic subsystems. The primary
difference between these subsystems is whether the subsystem is treated as a single execution unit.
The virtual subsystem is the default subsystem block.

In a model, the border for a Virtual subsystem is thin as compared the border for the Atomic
subsystem, which is thick and bold.

For additional information, in the Simulink user help see:

• Subsystems
• Explanation of algebraic loops

Virtual Subsystem
A block that provides a visual representation is known as a "virtual block. ". For example, [Mux] that
compiles several signal lines, [From] that hands out the signal, and [Goto] blocks all correspond to a
virtual block. Since the subsystem block in the default setting only constitutes a visual hierarchical
structure, these blocks are considered virtual blocks. The subsystem is referred to as a virtual
subsystem.

Consider a subsystem that consults an external calculation result within a subsystem, as shown in
the following example. This system is calculated from these four equations.
temp1= in1 + in2
temp2= in3 + in4
out1= in1 + in2 + temp2
249
 out2= temp1 + in3 + in4
With virtual subsystem, it is
possible to consult the values
within other subsystems.

Virtual subsystem

Since mutual consultation is

possible, no delay occurs
even when it is turned into a
subsystem
Atomic Subsystem
An atomic subsystem is detached from the external system and is not subject to cross-border
optimization. Atomic subsystems do not use the results of the internal calculations of each subsystem.
Therefore, interim output value will use a calculation result that is delayed by a session.
temp1= in1 + in2
temp2= in4 + in5
out1= in1+ in2 + in3
out2= in4+ in5 + in6
in3= temp2
in6= temp1

Atomic subsystems prohibit the direct referencing of the interim calculation results to other
subsystems.

Cross-referencing is not possible, so

delays need to be inserted on the lines
connecting subsystems.

Atomic subsystem

Notes on atomic subsystems

• Atomic subsystems can select C-source function settings.
• As explained above, the internal section of an atomic subsystem will become encapsulated
(objectified).

250
 • Depending on the relationship before and after, a static RAM section should be secured
inside the subsystem for the output signal.
• Atomic subsystems (including the addition of function settings) should be used with caution.
Factor setting will not simply have a factor name inserted within a C code. It should be
acknowledged that it is described as a mathematically independent system and the
conditions under which an atomic subsystem can be used should be reviewed.
• Include the relationship with the structure layer; it is necessary to determine an operation rule
per project and to determine its relationship with the guideline rules.

Modeling Knowledge / Usage Patterns

Appendix 1: Simulink Patterns for If, elseif, else Constructs
These patterns shall be used for if, elseif, else constructs.
Function Simulink pattern
[Switch] is used.
If, elseif, else construct

if (If_Condition)
{
output_signal = If_Value;
}
else if (Else_If_Condition)
{
output_signal = Else_If_Value;
}
else
{
output_signal = Else_Value;
}
If, elseif, else construct using Action Subsystem

if (Fault_1_Active & Fault_2_Active)

{
ErrMsg = SaftyCrit;
}
else if (Fault_1_Active |
Fault_2_Active)
{
ErrMsg = DriverWarn;
}
else
{
ErrMsg = NoFaults;
}

Appendix 2: Simulink Patterns for Case Constructs

These patterns shall be used for case constructs.
Function Simulink pattern
Case construct using if Action Subsystem

switch (PRNDL_Enum)
{
251
 case 1
TqEstimate = ParkV;
break;
case 2
TqEstimate = RevV;
break;
default
TqEstimate = NeutralV;
break;
}

Case construct using Multiport Switch

switch (Selection)
{
case 1:
output_signal =
look1_binlxpw(In2,y1,x1,3U);
break;
case 2:
output_signal =
look1_binlxpw(In3,y2,x2,3U);
break;
case 3:
output_signal =
look1_binlxpw(In4,y3,x3,3U);
break;
default:
output_signal =
look1_binlxpw(In5,y4,x4,3U);
break;
}

Appendix 3: Simulink Patterns for Logical Constructs

These patterns shall be used for Simulink logical constructs.

Conjunctive normal form

252
Disjunctive normal form

Appendix 4: Simulink Patterns for Vector Signals

These patterns shall be used for vector signals.
Function Simulink pattern
Vector signal and parameter (scalar) multiplication
for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {
output_vector[i] = input_vector[i] *
tunable_parameter_value;
}

(Reference: generated code of R2013b)

253
for (i = 0; i < input_vectorDim; i++) {
output_vector[i] =
tunable_parameter_value *
input_vector[i];
}

(As the code is generated using a variable number of

dimensions, the upper limit of the normal loop is a
direct value.)
Multiplication of vector signals and parameters
(vectors)

for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {

output_vector[i] = input_vector[i] *
tunable_parameter_vector[i];
}
Vector signal element multiplication

output_signal = 1;
for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {
output_signal = output_signal *
input_vector[i];
}
Vector signal element division

output_signal = 1;
for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {
output_signal = output_signal /
input_vector[i];
}
Vector signal and parameter (scalar) addition

for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {

output_vector[i] = input_vector[i] +
tunable_parameter_value;
}
Vector signal and parameter (vector) addition

for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {

output_vector[i] = input_vector[i] +
tunable_parameter_vector[i];
}
Vector signal and parameter (vector) addition

for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {

output_vector[i] = input_vector[i] +
tunable_parameter_vector[i];
}
Vector signal element subtraction

output_signal = 0;
for (i=0; i>input_vector_size; i++) {
output_signal = output_signal –
input_vector[i];
}

254
 Retention of minimum value/maximum value

Appendix 5: Using Switch and if-then-else Action Subsystems

[Switch] shall be used for modeling simple if, elseif, else structures when the associated elseif and else
actions involve only the assignment of constant values.

Recommended: For a simple if, elseif, else structure, use [Switch].

Not recommended: Using [If], [If Action Subsystem] for a simple if, elseif, else structure.

Recommended: For a complex if, elseif, else structure, use [If], [If Action Subsystem].

255
Not recommended: Using [Switch] for a complex if, elseif, else structure.

Appendix 6: Use of if, elseif, else Action Subsystem to Replace Multiple Switches
Frequent use of [Switch] for condition bifurcation shall be avoided. Instead, the {upper limit target} shall be
used (such as up to three levels). When the target value is exceeded, a conditional control flow using the
if, elseif, else Action Subsystem shall be used.

Not recommended: Four levels of nesting.

256
Recommended: By setting the fourth level as an if Action subsystem, nesting is limited to a single level.

257
Not recommended: Not dividing by using an if Action subsystem.

Use atomic subsystem + function setting when the C code limit is applied. In this case, there is no need to
use the if, elseif, else Action Subsystem, but the configuration of [Switch] can be split and encapsulated in
the subsystem.

Example of model with five levels of nesting.

Not recommended:

258
Recommended: Use a description method that avoids layering of [Switch] nesting

While provided as an example, If Action Subsystem a are not typically used for switching the fixed value.
In these Recommended and Not Recommended examples, the generated C code will be the same if the
user does not add a function conversion setting. (Confirmed in R2010b to R2013a) The C code is
unconstrained.

259
Appendix 7: Usage Rules for Action Subsystems Using Conditional Control Flow
An If Action subsystem shall not be used when the associated actions do not have a status variable.

Recommended

Example of model with 5 levels of nesting

Recommended
Layering by using a subsystem does not occur because there is no internal state.

260
Recommended
An atomic subsystem is used to split either side of [Switch] without using an Action subsystem.

261
Not recommended:
Layering through the use of an unnecessary Action subsystem.

Since there is no block that has a state

variable in this level, there is no need to
use the Action subsystem.

This state variable is

initialized at the same time
as the initialization of the
upper layer and executed
several times in the same
cycle.
While there is no problem
with the calculation result,
wasteful processes are
performed.

If a function can be achieved by using the Action subsystem, then layering using the Action subsystem is
not performed.
In the Not Recommended example, when the lowest level [Unit Delay] on the third level is initialized, the
conditional subsystem initialization is first executed one time on the upper first level, and then again on the
second level for a total of two times of initial value settings. To prevent the generation of unnecessary

262
code, it is recommended that listing not be made in conditional subsystems that reside in levels where the
state variable does not exist.
This is based on the concept that the model complexity is reduced by dropping to a level. The purpose of
the rule is to avoid the execution of unnecessary initializations.
For bifurcation of systems where the bifurcation condition nest has a deep structure, split by using function
conversions to decrease the code bifurcation nesting. Functions before and after [Switch] are divided into
respective subsystems, and function settings are applied to the atomic subsystem＋function. Be aware, it
is possible that this may result in unintentional implementation and unnecessary RAM requirements.

Appendix 8: Tests for Information From Errors

When functions that are used in Stateflow (graphical functions, MATLAB functions, etc.) results in an
error, the error information shall be transformed into a model structure that will facilitate testing.
Not reviewing the error information returned by the functions can result in unintended behavior.

Recommended
Error information is incorporated into the model structure, allowing the user to review and respond to the
errors.

Not recommended:
Error information is not incorporated into the model structure.

263
Appendix 9: Flow Chart Patterns for Conditions

These patterns shall be used for conditions within Stateflow flow charts.

Equivalent Functionality Flow Chart Pattern

ONE CONDITION:

[condition]

UP TO THREE CONDITIONS, SHORT FORM:

(The use of different logical operators in this form is
not allowed. Use sub conditions instead.)

[condition1 && condition2 && condition3]

[condition1 || condition2 || condition3]

TWO OR MORE CONDITIONS, MULTILINE

FORM:
(The use of different logical operators in this form is
not allowed. Use sub conditions instead.)

[condition1 ...
&& condition2 ...
&& condition3]
[condition1 ...
|| condition2 ...
|| condition3]

264
 CONDITIONS WITH SUBCONDITIONS:
(The use of different logical operators to connect
sub conditions is not allowed. The use of brackets
is mandatory.)

[(condition1a || condition1b) ...

&& (condition2a || condition2b) ...
&& (condition3)]
[(condition1a && condition1b) ...
|| (condition2a && condition2b) ...
|| (condition3)]

CONDITIONS THAT ARE VISUALLY

SEPARATED:
(This form can be combined with the preceding
patterns.)

[condition1 && condition2]

[condition1 || condition2]

Appendix 10: Flow Chart Patterns for Condition Actions

These patterns shall be used for condition actions within Stateflow flow charts.

Equivalent Functionality Flow Chart Pattern

ONE CONDITION ACTION:

action;

TWO OR MORE CONDITION ACTIONS,

MULTILINE FORM:
(Two or more condition actions in one line are not
allowed.)
action1; ...
action2; ...

265
 action3; ...

CONDITION ACTIONS, WHICH ARE VISUALLY

SEPARATED:
(This form can be combined with the preceding
patterns.)
action1a;
action1b;
action2;
action3;

Appendix 11: Flow Chart Patterns for if Constructs

These patterns shall be used for If constructs within Stateflow flow charts.

Function Flow Chart Pattern

If construct

if (condition){
action;
}

If, else construct

if (condition) {
action1;
}
else {
action2;
}

266
If, elseif, else construct

if (condition1) {
action1;
}
else if (condition2) {
action2;
}
else if (condition3) {
action3;
}
else {
action4;
}

Cascade of if construct

if (condition1) {
action1;
if (condition2) {
action2;
if (condition3) {
action3;
}
}
}

267
Appendix 12: Flow Chart Patterns for Case Constructs
These patterns shall be used for case constructs in Stateflow flow charts.
Function Simulink pattern

Case construct with exclusive selection

selection = u1;
switch (selection) {
case 1:
y1 = 1;
break;
case 2:
y1 = 2;
break;
case 3:
y1 = 4;
break;
default:
y1 = 8;
}

Case construct with exclusive conditions

c1 = u1;
c2 = u2;
c3 = u3;
if (c1 && ! c2 && ! c3) {
y1 = 1;
}
elseif (! c1 && c2 && ! c3) {
y1 = 2;
}
elseif (! c1 && ! c2 && c3) {
y1 = 4;
}
else {
y1 = 8;
}

Appendix 13: Flow Chart Patterns for Loop Constructs

These patterns shall be used to create loop constructs in Stateflow flow charts.

Function Flow Chart Pattern

For loop construct

for ( index = 0;
index < number_of_loops;
index++ )
{
action;

268
}

While loop construct

while ( condition )
{
action;
}

Do while loop construct

do
{
action;
}
while ( condition )

269
Appendix 14: State Machine Patterns for Conditions

These patterns shall be used for conditions within Stateflow state machines.

Equivalent Functionality State Machine Pattern

ONE CONDITION:

(condition)

UP TO THREE CONDITIONS, SHORT FORM:

(The use of different logical operators in this form
is not allowed, use sub conditions instead)

(condition1 && condition2)

(condition1 || condition2)

TWO OR MORE CONDITIONS, MULTILINE

FORM:
A sub condition is a set of logical operations, all
of the same type, enclosed in parentheses.
(The use of different operators in this form is not
allowed, use sub conditions instead.)

(condition1 ...
&& condition2 ...
&& condition3)

(condition1 ...
|| condition2 ...
|| condition3)

Appendix 15: State Machine Patterns for Transition Actions

These patterns shall be used for transition actions within Stateflow state machines.

Equivalent Functionality State Machine Pattern

ONE TRANSITION ACTION:

action;

TWO OR MORE TRANSITION ACTIONS,

MULTILINE FORM:
(Two or more transition actions in one line are not
allowed.)

action1;
action2;
action3;

270
Appendix 16: Limiting State Layering

Within a single viewer (subviewer), multiple layering shall be limited by defining constraints for a single
view (subview). Subcharts shall be used to switch the screen when defined constraint goals are
exceeded.

Recommended
The fourth level is encapsulated in a subchart.

Not recommended:
The constraint goal is set to three levels, but Level_4_a and Level_4_b have more than three levels and
are nested.

Appendix 17: Number of States per Stateflow Container

The number of states per Stateflow container shall be determined by the number of states that can be
viewed in the diagram. All states should be visible and readable.

271
Appendix 18: Function Call from Stateflow
If a state exists in the Function Call Subsystem of the call target, and a “reset” of the state is required
when the state of the caller becomes inactive, the caller shall use a bind action.

Appendix 19: Function Types Available in Stateflow

The functions types used in Stateflow shall be dependent on the required processing.

For graphical functions, use:

o If, elseif, else logic

For Simulink functions, use:

o Transfer functions
o Integrators
o Table look-ups

For MATLAB functions, use:

o Complex equations
o If, elseif, else logic
272