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Scientia Silvae Sinicae ›› 2025, Vol. 61 ›› Issue (6): 1-12.doi: 10.11707/j.1001-7488.LYKX20240790

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Progress and Applications of 3D Modeling and Visualization Simulation Technology for Trees

Zeyu Cui1,2(),Huaiqing Zhang1,2,*(),Yang Liu1,2,Jing Zhang1,2,Tingdong Yang1,2,Rurao Fu1,2,3   

  1. 1. Institute of Forest Resources Information Techniques, Chinese Academy of Forestry Beijing 100091
    2. National Forestry and Grassland Science Data Center Beijing 100091
    3. Central South University of Forestry and Technology Changsha 410004
  • Received:2024-12-24 Online:2025-06-10 Published:2025-06-26
  • Contact: Huaiqing Zhang E-mail:cuizeyu@ifrit.ac.cn;zhang@ifrit.ac.cn

Abstract:

The 3D modeling and visualization simulation technology for trees is essential tools for investigating forest structure and growth dynamics, and a key technology and foundation for carrying out precision forest management. This paper systematically reviews various tree 3D modeling techniques from different dimensions, including rule-based one-dimensional text descriptions, two-dimensional imagery, three-dimensional LiDAR point clouds, and multi-source data fusion approaches, and also summarizes the progress in the visualization and simulation of tree morphology, growth, and polymorphism. With an emphasis on current trends in 3D tree modeling, this paper focuses on the integration application prospects of generative artificial intelligence (GAI), multi-source data fusion, and large model technologies. It discusses future directions in personalized, diverse, large-scale, and intelligent 3D modeling of trees. In the context of rapid GAI development, a novel framework for intelligent 3D tree modeling is proposed, grounded in multi-source data fusion and powered by GAI. The paper further examines the enabling role of emerging technologies such as digital twins and the metaverse in expanding the applications of tree 3D models. It analyzes their functional requirements and potential across the entire lifecycle of trees, including breeding and cultivation, heritage tree conservation, landscape design, forest operations, ecological monitoring and disaster early warning, as well as ecosystem protection and restoration. Through 3D model simulations of trees, spatial and temporal constraints can be effectively overcome to support intelligent decision-making. These technologies offer critical support for precise and efficient forest management and ecosystem service restoration, provide novel research paradigms and intelligent approaches for tree breeding, monitoring, and conservation, and enable cross-modal data integration and mechanism discovery across the entire spectrum of forestry applications.

Key words: tree 3D modeling, generative artificial intelligence, multi-source data fusion, digital twin, metaverse

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