Implementing Arrow Functions Directly in MATLAB

Drawing arrows in MATLAB is a common requirement for data visualization, particularly when displaying vector fields or directional data. Encapsulating arrow drawing functionality into reusable functions enhances code efficiency and maintainability. Below is the implementation approach: Core Parameter Design The function should accept starting point coordinates `(x0,y0)` and ending point coordinates `(x1,y1)` as essential parameters, with additional style options like arrow size, color, and line width. Use `varargin` or structure parameters to support flexible configuration, allowing users to customize arrow appearance through name-value pairs. Arrow Geometry Calculation Arrows consist of three geometric components: - Main line: A straight segment connecting start and end points using basic line equation calculations - Arrow wings: Diagonal lines at the arrowhead computed through vector rotation transformations - calculate wing endpoints using rotation matrices applied to the direction vector - Optional arrow base: Create solid triangular effects using `patch` function with properly ordered vertex coordinates Plotting Function Selection - Use `line` function for custom arrow drawing or `quiver` for simplified built-in arrows - Implement `hold on/off` commands to enable multiple arrows in the same plot - Utilize `hgtransform` for advanced transformations like rotation and scaling of arrow groups Implementation Techniques - Default parameter handling: Inherit current axes colors if no specific color is specified using `get(gca,'Color')` - Input validation: Verify coordinate inputs are numerical using `isnumeric()` checks - Output control: Return graphic handles (e.g., line handles) for subsequent modifications using `h = line(...)` This functional implementation not only simplifies single calls (e.g., `drawArrow(0,0,1,1,'red')`) but also enables batch drawing of complex scenarios like flow fields and force diagrams through loop structures. The function should include error checking for coordinate dimensionality and provide options for different arrowhead styles through conditional plotting logic.