Dynamic Component - Turn Tree Survey into 3D model

Machiya · 1 Feb 2013, 21:33

I have compiled a dynamic component tree, which can turn tree survey data into a 3D model.

Tree Surveys provide:

Trunk Width
Canopy Height (ie. the underside)
Tree Height
Maximum Spread (North, East, South, West) - walking around the tree clockwise.
Species
Survey ref for tree

This is not quite enough to model a tree that is useful for solar or shading studies.
So, I added;

Effectively, 2 rubber bands ("limiters/shapers")to the canopy, and
I started to add transparency - to mimic the diurnal cycle (not implemented)

The model is a trunk and 3nr. shaped elements for the canopy - all in one Dynamic Component (attached).

Dynamic Tree

OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT

I would have preferred a 'balloon' like canopy with 'rubber bands' but I couldn't think of a way of doing it; eg. scaling the upper and lower faces of each canopy component??

It would have been nice to control the transparency of the canopy - but again... it stumped me.

I would be happy for anyone to assist.

Even if you explode the component and stretch the faces, it should get you pretty close - in workflow terms.

Best,

Gary