Simulink custom (non rectangular) Block Shapes

Hey everyone,

we want to make our simulink models more visually appealing and useful for presentations. Hence I want to give blocks certain shapes. Like have a subsystem being triangular (alike the gain block) to visualize its functionalities.

How do I adjust the shape of a simulink subsystem block? As there are various blocks deviating from the rectangular standard, it musst be possible. But, much to my supprise i could not find any material on it using google.

Any help is appreciated. Many thanks in advance.

Answer 1

[Jonas]

I do not think it is possible to give subsystems an other shape than rectangular. It could conflict with the positioning of the in- and output ports.

What you can do, is use a mask image on a subsystem. Right click on a subsystem, and go to 'Mask' and then 'Add icon image...'. This way you can add your own symbols and images on the subsystem block.

[Florian Rössing]

Thank you, I knew this feature existed, but am hesistant to use it yet. Its my retreat option so to say.

When I create a system with 1 output it should be no problem. So I think they should not limit us in this way and give us freedom of shape.

[Fangjun Jiang]

Avoid using image as block icon as it slows down model when every block has it.

Use icon drawing command in Mask to draw your shape. Make block frame "invisible" then you got it.

[Florian Rössing]

How do I use those Icon drawing comands? This sound helpful

[Fangjun Jiang]

Click "Help" button on "Icon and Ports" tab.

Answer 2

[Florian Rössing]

All models are beautiful, useful and valuable regardless of origin shape or color, I demand freedom of choice! ;)

[Jonas]

Yes, that's why models with grey rectangular blocks are beautiful, useful and valuable as well :-)

[Florian Rössing]

Doesnt explain why I am limited to them ;) Regardless, I am for now working with your image approach until someone finds another way. Or the Matlab staff tells me it is not possible (and why so)