A framework for plant leaf modeling and shading

This paper presents a framework for geometric modeling and appearance shading of plant leaves. In order to produce 3D models with multiple shapes, the double silhouette-axis skeleton method and Laplacian editing technology are used in the proposed modeling approach which ensure the interactive freedom and the geometric accuracy. A novel biological shading model is adopted to simulate leaves' appearance, which can generate different leaf color drove by different biological parameters such as structure parameter, chlorophyll a + b content, the carotenoids content, epidermal cells' oblateness and blade thickness. With this framework, users can generate 3D models of various plant leaves easily and quickly with realistic appearance. We believe that it is a general method for modeling and rendering of plant leaves. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.