Graphical applications of L-systems

Abstract

A new method for generating pictures is presented and illustrated with examples. The idea is to generate a string of symbols using an L-system, and to interpret this string as a sequence of commands which control a "turtle". Suitable generalizations of the notions of the L-system and of a turtle are introduced. The resulting mathematical model can be used to create a variety of (finite approximations of) fractal curves, ranging from Koch curves, to classic space-filling curves, to relatively realistic-looking pictures of plants and trees. All these pictures are defined in a uniform and compact way.

Reference

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