Interactive voxel terrain design using procedural techniques
Date
2009-03
Authors
Greeff, Gerrit
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
Super cially realistic worlds can easily be created using fractal landscapes. Such landscapes are limited in
that real-world geological features such as caves and overhangs are impossible using a standard height eld
representation. Interactive, realistic simulation of terrain evolution on such landscapes has proved elusive
and does not generally provide direct control over the placement of landscape features.
This thesis presents an interactive terrain design system, which enables the user to generate localised,
speci c terrain features, as well as generalised global characteristics. A fully volumetric terrain representation
is used to allow varied three dimensional terrain features. A hybrid rendering algorithm is employed to
e ciently render the volumetric data set, while allowing interactive terrain deformation. Small terrain
deformation is enabled using voxel carving, while larger terrain features is generated using an adoption
of the Wires algorithm. A fractal river network generation technique is presented and adopted for voxel
terrain.
These tools provide the user with interactive feedback to allow for more dynamic terrain design.
Description
Thesis (MSc (Computer Science))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Interactive voxel terrain design, Terrain design systems, Dissertations -- Computer science, Theses -- Computer science