3D tree modeling using motion capture

Abstract

Recovering tree shape from motion capture data is a first step toward efficient and accurate animation of trees in wind using motion capture data. Existing algorithms for generating models of tree branching structures for image synthesis in computer graphics are not adapted to the unique data set provided by motion capture. We present a method for tree shape reconstruction using particle flow on input data obtained from a passive optical motion capture system. Data is collected using adhesive retroreflective markers are distributed on a subset of the branch tips for trees with height less than 2.5 meters. Initial branch tip positions are estimated from averaged and smoothed motion capture data enriched with additional branch tips added to the model. Simplified particle flow starting at branch tips within a vertical stack of bounding volumes creates tree branches. The resulting shapes are realistic and similar to the original tree crown shape. Several tunable parameters provide control over branch shape and arrangement.