Fractalize

The Polygon->Fractalize command in the Model module allows you to apply fractal iterations to any polygon mesh object that has triangular polygons. For example, a realistic mountain, a meteor, or rolling countryside can easily be created by applying Fractalize to a simple object. You can control the number of iterations, the magnitude, the jagginess of the resulting object, as well as several flags controlling the displacements created.

Procedure

1. Convert your polygon mesh into triangular polygons using the Effect->Convert command in the Model module.
2. Choose the Polygon->Fractalize command.
   
   The Fractalize dialogue box is displayed.
   
   
3. Set the parameters as desired.
4. Pick the polygon mesh object you want to fractalize. If your model has many polygons, it will take a long time to apply the Fractalize effect.

Parameters

Positive Offset

When this option is selected, the offsets are all "positive" (always up instead of up and down). This creates smoother surfaces.

Normal Offset

When this option is selected, the vertices are offset in the direction of the normal of that vertex. If it is deselected, the offset is in the direction of the y-axis.

Additive

When this option is selected, the offsets accumulate at each vertex with each iteration. This is typically set to create mountains.

Subdivide

When this option is deselected, Fractalize does not subdivide the polygon mesh, but only offsets the vertices, similar to the Effect->Randomize command.

Seed

Specifies a seed value for the random number generator. Use different values to create different versions of the same models.

Iterations

Sets the number of iterations of the process. Each iteration multiplies the number of triangles by 4, so keep this number reasonably small.

Magnitude

Sets the relative magnitude of the offsets produced (measured in SOFTIMAGE units).

Jagginess

Determines relative "jagginess" of the result. Use high values (0.7 to 1.3) for jagged surfaces such as rocky mountains, and low values (0.3 to 0.5) for smoother ones such as rolling hills.

Last updated 02-apr-1998