Modeling of cellular layers

Abstract

String L-systems, the first formalism considered in this book, are suitable for the modeling of nonbranching filaments such as Anabaena catenula. The introduction of brackets extends the class of modeled structures to axial trees. However, many structures found in botany have a more complex topology, which can only be described by graphs with cycles. The developmental surface models presented in Section 5.2 make it possible to specify a limited class of these graphs. This chapter describes a more general approach and applies it to simulate the development of single-layered cellular structures such as those found in fern garnetophytes, animal embryos and plant epidermis. All structures considered are of microscopic dimensions and relatively undifferentiated, yet the presented methods may bring us closer to the modeling of more complex patterns, such as the venation of leaves.