Copy and Paste

Copy and Paste provides the most simple method for moving data into and out of your models. It is generally the most practical when the exchange of data is a one time event. The operation of these commands is outlined below, followed by a discussion of the necessary formats.

Exporting Data Using Copy: To use copy and paste to export data from your model, you will need to:

Figure 8-1
Selecting Table Variables for Copying

[Note: If you hold down the alt key (Windows) or option key (Macintosh) when choosing Copy, you will also copy the variable name along with the data in the column.]

 

Importing Data using Paste: To use copy and paste to import data into your model, you will need to:

You can paste numeric data into any model variable.  However you must ensure that the number of data points is appropriate to the location. The necessary formats are as follows.

1) A graphical function created within a flow or converter can hold up to 1500 data points (numbers only). See Chapter 4 for details on creating graphical functions. The data will be pasted into the Output column on the top, right side of the dialog. You can select all or part of the column. To select the entire column at once, click once on the word Output at the top of the column, as illustrated in Figure 8-2.

Figure 8-2
Pasting Data into a Graphical Function

2) Reservoir, flow, and converter dialogs can be recipients of an equation or constant. All pre-existing contents of the equation box should be highlighted first, if they are to be replaced by the incoming data.

3) Queues and Conveyors can be the recipient of single or multiple constants for their initial values, but multiple numbers must be separated by commas. All pre-existing contents of the equation box should be highlighted first, if they are to be replaced by the incoming data.

[Note: If the data is being imported from a spreadsheet, a column of commas can be created alongside the column of data. Copying them together will bring the data in the necessary format.]

4) Ovens can be the recipients of constant initial values. All pre-existing contents of the equation box should be highlighted first, if they are to be replaced by the incoming data.

See Also