SpeedTree — Procedural Modeling Tool to Create 3D Trees & Vegetation

Interactive Data Visualization (IDV) has released SpeedTree 9.5, the latest version of its 3D trees and vegetation generator that now owned by Unity. The latest version offers a range of new features and enhancements that make it easier to create realistic and detailed vegetation for your projects.

| Using SpeedTree

SpeedTree is a procedural modeling tool that allows users to create 3D trees and other vegetation quickly and easily. The software uses a combination of procedural generation and manual editing to create trees that are both realistic and highly customizable. With Spe edTree, users can create trees of all shapes and sizes, from towering conifers to delicate cherry blossoms.

SpeedTree is available in several different versions, each tailored to specific applications. For example, SpeedTree Cinema is designed for use in film and visual effects work, while SpeedTree Games is more geared towards game development. Both versions include SpeedTree Modeler, the plant-authoring software, and SpeedTree Library, a collection of pre-built 3D plants. SpeedTree Games also includes the SpeedTree SDK, which allows developers to integrate SpeedTree assets directly into their games.

| Application Scenarios

SpeedTree is a versatile tool that can be used in a wide range of applications. In film and visual effects work, SpeedTree is often used to create realistic environments for live-action and animated films. In video games, SpeedTree is used to create immersive and detailed environments that bring game worlds to life. SpeedTree is also used in architectural visualization, where it can be used to create realistic landscapes and vegetation for building designs.

| New Features in SpeedTree 9.5Availability

SpeedTree 9.5 introduces several new features and enhancements that make it easier than ever to create realistic and detailed trees and vegetation. One of the most significant new features is the Frond Manipulation tool, which allows users to manipulate the fronds of a leaf indi vividly. This feature takes advantage of gravity, wind, and curling features to bring fronds to life, adding a natural touch to your scenes. The Frond Manipulation tool also eliminates the need to switch between different modeling software, streamlining the workflow.

Another new feature in SpeedTree 9.5 is the Projector system, which allows users to add procedural details like moss, snow, and twigs to model surfaces. The Projector system uses ray casting technology to distribute details efficiently and realistically across large- scale environments. This feature simulates how elements like moss and snow would naturally accumulate on surfaces, adding a new level of authenticity to scenes and landscapes.

SpeedTree 9.5 also includes support for height maps, which allows users to identify subsections on a mesh via the paint tool in the cutout editor. This feature eliminates the need for external modeling software and streamlines the workflow, making it easier to create ate detailed and realistic trees and vegetable.

| Availability

SpeedTree 9.5 is available for Windows 7+, CentOS 7, Ubuntu 18.04/20.04 Linux, and macOS 10.13+. The software is rental-only, and pricing varies depending on the subscription level. Indie subscriptions, for users with revenue under $100,000/year, cost $19/month or $199/year. Pro subscriptions, for users with revenue under $1 million/year, cost $499/year for a node-locked license or $899/year for a floating license. Enterprise subscriptions, for studios with revenues over $1 million/year, are priced on demand.

For more information, you may give a watch of the overview in its official site or check the release note here.