Frequently asked questions
Steps:
1. Extract the Zip File
Download the zip file and extract it into a single folder with a short and simple name (avoid spaces or special characters).
⚠️ Make sure the extraction does not create multiple nested subfolders — the project should be contained in one main folder only.
2. Open MATLAB
Launch MATLAB on your system.
3. Set the MATLAB Folder
Change the MATLAB working directory to the project folder you just extracted. (Refer to this video for guidance: How to Change MATLAB Folder)
4. Check Files
Ensure that all the required files downloaded from us are present in the MATLAB project folder.
5. Run the Model
Open the provided Simulink/Matlab model file and click Run to execute the simulation.
If you want to open a MATLAB/Simulink model created in a newer version (e.g., 2019b) using an older version (e.g., 2017b), you need to adjust the Simulink Preferences:
Open MATLAB (older version).
Go to Home → Preferences → Simulink → General → Model File.
Scroll down and untick the option: “Do not load models created with a newer version of Simulink.”
Click Apply and OK.
Now open the newer-version model — it should work in your older MATLAB version.
✅ This setting allows backward compatibility so researchers and students can run models even if they don’t have the latest MATLAB release.
Video Reference: This video shows step-by-step how to adjust the preference settings so that a newer-version Simulink model can be opened in an older version.
Q1: Why am I getting an error about missing blocks in my Simulink model?
A: This usually happens if certain MATLAB toolboxes are not installed (e.g., Simscape, SimPowerSystems, or Control System Toolbox). Please check that you have all required toolboxes installed. If not, install them or contact us for an alternative solution.
Q2: My Simulink model shows “Error due to algebraic loop.” How do I fix it?
A: Algebraic loops occur when blocks are directly dependent on each other without a delay or integrator. To fix this, insert a Unit Delay, Memory block, or a small filter in the loop.
Q3: I see “Unrecognized function or variable” in MATLAB. What does it mean?
A: This error occurs when MATLAB cannot find the file or function you are trying to run. Check:
That the file is in your current MATLAB folder.
The file name is typed correctly (MATLAB is case-sensitive).
All supporting .m files are included in the extracted folder.
Q4: Why do I get “License Error” or “Invalid License” when running the model?
A: This happens if your MATLAB license does not include the required toolbox. Verify your license by running:
ver
in the Command Window. This will list all installed toolboxes.
Q5: My simulation is very slow or MATLAB is freezing. What should I do?
A: Large models can be computationally heavy. Try the following:
Reduce simulation time in Simulation → Configuration Parameters.
Use a fixed-step solver instead of variable-step.
Increase your system RAM or run on a system with higher processing power.