In this project, I explored procedural generation in MATLAB. I designed a script that can be used to procedurally generate a geometric model resembling a natural tree with branches and leaves. I explored two methods of tree generation and eventually chose the method that was the most true-to-life and therefore produced the most accurate representation of a tree.
I designed a graphical interface to allow parameters to be modified and the effects of these modifications to be quickly seen on the screen.
Finally, I attempted to model a coniferous tree with radial branches in the same script I was already using to create trees with forking branches. The result of this attempt leaves room for improvement but I thought it sufficient for low-fidelity animation.Â
The model includes stochastic (random) elements so that given a set of input parameters, each iteration of the script produces a completely unique geometric model. The model comes with presets to generate common tree species.
Executable program: Since the program was written in MATLAB, you will need to either have MATLAB already installed on your PC, or install a MATLAB runtime in order to run the program:
If you already have MATLAB installed: download the program file from the first link. Unzip, and then run Tree_generator.exe.
If you don't have MATLAB installed: download the installer from the second link. Run Tree_generator_mcr.exe. This should prompt you to install the tree generator and a MATLAB runtime.