Pipeline SDK features and capabilities
Procedural generation
Enhances procedural models: Extends the reach and versatility of procedural tree models outside of the SpeedTree Modeler.
Parses .spm files: Reads SpeedTree's compact procedural definitions (.spm files) and converts them into dynamic, live 3D mesh data.
Geometry manipulation and on-the-fly modifications
Real-time geometry generation: Facilitates the real-time creation and adjustment of 3D geometry based on user-defined parameters, allowing for rapid iteration.
API for dynamic changes: Includes an API to modify tree models dynamically, allowing adjustments to:
- Embedded rules: Utilize SpeedTree's "rules" feature to shape models with high-level adjustments.
- Polygonal resolution: Adjust the level of detail by leveraging the resolutions defined in the .spm file.
- Season: Change seasonal attributes of the trees, as defined in the SpeedTree Modeler.
- Random seed: Generate limitless variations with different seeds.
Advanced animation and wind management
Shader-based wind effects: Provides a framework for real-time wind animations using vertex shaders for dynamic and visually appealing models.
Multicore wind computation: Compute wind effects on a multicore CPU.
Growth animation: For models with animated growth defined in the SpeedTree Modeler, the SDK facilitates access to all frames of animation.
Export
Multiple formats: Export models to various formats (e.g., Alembic, .fbx, .obj) suitable for more real-time and offline/VFX applications. The entire SpeedTree Modeler export system is exposed through the API.
Texture management: Export model textures in formats supported by the Modeler (e.g., .png, .dds, .exr).
Material atlases (games): Generate atlases for materials.
Imposters (games): Create imposter meshes and atlases for optimized rendering.