Stochastic Dynamics: Simulating the Effects of Turbulence on Flexible Structures

Abstract

This paper addresses the problem of realistically simulating the motion of tree-branches subjected to turbulence. Since the resulting motion is random in nature, we model it as a stochastic process. We synthesize this process directly by filtering a white noise in the Fourier domain. The filter is constructed by performing a modal analysis of the tree. We use a sophisticated numerical technique which is able to compute the first few significant modes of large trees. The main advantage of our technique over previous methods is that we are able to compute complicated motions without the necessity of integrating dynamical equations over time. Consequently, a user can view and manipulate tree-motions in real-time. Our technique can be further extended to other flexible structures such as two-dimensional plates.