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Realistic vegetation creation system for realtime visualisations, games, simulations or CG generated nature

Linda is a system for generating highly realistic vegetation for use in realtime or massive offline rendering.

The main advantages are in terms of simulation based on real biological processes and the possibility to generate models in any detail from hipoly to lowpoply, with corresponding LODs as well as user control of specified details on the tree body. Lindastudio also contain tools for analysing models for performance dependency, measuring surface and volume, reducing number of textures and sections. Vertex numbers analysis, video memory load and so on.

The tools generate models in FBX format with diffuse and normal textures and also 2. UV for specific lightmaps, there is no need for specific changes in a customer’s engine. Automatic generation of shadow or physics LODs are also supported. Creation of vegetation is now offered as a service.

Linda software is created by Bohemia Interactive

Theory

Linda is particularly based on one way L-systems for fast simulation, but with statistical analysis of phytohormone distribution in plant body and the possibility to control many dependency aspects.

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Interface

Linda is an open system that allows the user to define new physiology or add new control methods. The system uses multiple CPU cores and also GPU on graphics cards for faster simulation if available. Linda includes tools not just for performance measuring but also for LOD switching & visual quality control. Multiple plants can be opened in one time, the whole system is database based and supports source control.

Linda with open script language. Click on image for 1:1 screen shot (500KB JPEG)

Linda, two dimensional control surface and overall texture usage analysis. Click on image for 1:1 screen shot (500KB JPEG)

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Results

Linda is able to generate biologically correct species of vegetation and simulate their development in time.
Our database now contains most trees and bushes typical to Central Europe.

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Video

Download LindaDetailHeight.wmv (28MB ZIP File)

Download LindaNumberTextures.wmv (28MB ZIP File)

Download LindaSeasons.wmv (48,1MB ZIP File)

Download LindaSyncView.wmv (39MB ZIP File)

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Frequently asked questions

What is the polycount of the trees?
It could be from 12 faces to 300000 faces, the system makes it possible to set a targeted polycount smoothly.

How many LODs are available and can we generate them by ourselves?
Any number, the system is able to generate an unlimited number of lods with user specific polycount.

What do I need to prepare for a tree or bush?
A drawing or photo of a tree, some more detailed photos or drawings of a small spring for setting the parameters of the generator.

Are custom maps possible?
Yes, typically input data is just the texture of the leaves (pines) and bark, that’s all, everything else, output textures and nmaps are the product of the generator.

Are normal maps possible, and how many other maps can I assign to the objects?
You can add an unlimited number of barks diffuse and nmap textures, same with leaves.

Are branches connected smoothly to the trunk?
Yes and also with textures, it’s also possible to control the details of the connection.

Can the model be optimized for different viewer positions?
Yes, we can generate a model that respects the best details of a model in the height of the viewer or for overall view.

Can we edit a generated model of vegetation?
Yes, you can work with it as with any standard 3D model, you can also paint generated textures that are in TGA format

When we generate random models as a test, can we go back to a certain model that we like?
Yes, it’s based on pseudo random numbers, so with the same number, you will receive the same model.

Is it stand alone software, or do you have plugins for Max or XSI?
It’s standalone software.

Can we have some models to test it in our engine?
Yes, we are also able to make a live presentation of our system and create models at either your office or ours.

How many UV channels are possible?
2, the first is for diffuse textures and nmaps, second is mostly used for lightmaps (every face has unique UV)

Can we animate the plants and use physics?
Linda is able to generate special geometry for physical/ animation purposes

What is the cost?
If we facilitate the service, the cost is 100Euros per operator hour. Or for a software license please contact us for a quote.

What must we implement into our engine?
Nothing, the trick is in the models, if you are able to draw models from max or maya, or import FBX files, you will be able to draw our vegetation.

Are there some usage limitation?
No, the model is yours and you can use it any time on any project you want.

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Contact

Learn more about Bohemia Interactive company at the official website or contact us with this email form.

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