Using multiple strings to name a variable

9 views (last 30 days)
Hello, I have list of string variables, and I would like to use them to name an array. For example, my string variables are as followed:
"model='GFDL'"
"forcing='rcp45'"
"time='1979_2012'".
These are meant to represent the model, the forcing scenario, and the time domain. My data is named "sea_level_pressure" and it is an array of 96x144x408. My initial thought was to use
[model forcing time]=sea_level_pressure;
I was hoping the results would yield a new variable named GFDLrcp4519792012. The purpose of this is to somewhat dynamically name my variables, because I will be working with a large dataset, and I will need to sort them by model, forcing, time, etc. However, this is not very straight forward, since I am trying to append a string to a variable. I've spent a substantial amount of time browsing the net, but no success. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks, wefoust

Accepted Answer

Matt Fig
Matt Fig on 29 Nov 2012
Edited: Matt Fig on 29 Nov 2012
Don't do it! It is highly recommended that you do not create variables this way, as you will have no end of trouble dealing with them after wards. Instead use cell arrays or structures.
model='GFDL';
forcing='rcp45';
time='1979_2012'
S.(model).(forcing).(['t',time]) = data;
Now S is a structure.

More Answers (2)

Walter Roberson
Walter Roberson on 29 Nov 2012

wefoust
wefoust on 29 Nov 2012
Wow, You guys are very fast and helpful. You answered my question as I was typing comments.
Thanks Again,
wefoust

Categories

Find more on MATLAB in Help Center and File Exchange

Community Treasure Hunt

Find the treasures in MATLAB Central and discover how the community can help you!

Start Hunting!