User-defined functions

There are three different mechanisms for users to supply functions for use in expressions:

1. user-defined macros, which provide a short-hand for long or complex expressions that would otherwise have to be used repeatedly in expressions.
2. user-defined external procedures, written in a programming language such as Tcl or C++.
3. model-fragment function definitions (introduced in Simile v6), in which the behaviour of a function is implemented by a separate Simile model.

User-supplied function declarations and definitions should be put in files in the Functions directory in Simile's local data tree. This tree is created automatically when you first run Simile. Its location is:

• On Windows: "My Simile Files", under "Documents" (Windows 7 or Vista) or "My Documents" (earlier Windows versions)
• On Linux: .simile, in the user's home directory
• On MacOS: Simile, in the user's home directory

Declarations and definitions in the Functions directory in Simile's installation tree (e.g., "Program files/Simile54") are for functions treated as "Built-In", i.e., expected to be available in any Simile system. It is worth looking at these for guidance in writing your own functions, as the formats are the same.

In: Contents >> Working with equations