Steven Longay releases TreeSketch 3.0 for iPad

Developer Steven Longay has released TreeSketch 3.0, a major update to his free iPad app for modelling trees.

TreeSketch enables users to create detailed tree models using simple brush strokes to sketch the overall form, then use further simple gestures to adjust the position and width of individual branches, or to ‘prune’ the tree.

Export textured 3D models to Dropbox
Of all the new features in version 3.0, one of the most important for anyone aiming to do serious work with the app will be the option to export models to Dropbox in OBJ format, complete with textures.

However, there are also a lot of other neat new things, including the option to control the look of test renders more intuitively by dragging the sun around the sky, and slider controls for texture properties.

Tree models can now include fruit, buds and thorns; and there are options to reuse parameters from trees you’ve already created as presets.

TreeSketch 3.0 is available now from the iTunes App Store. You’ll need iOS 6.0+ to use it.

New features in TreeSketch 3.0

Model export
• In addition to iTunesConnect, models and images can be exported via Dropbox. Export options have been significantly expanded and include the obj mesh format and high resolution composite ready rendered images. Textures can now be exported with the model.

Modeling
• The hybrid growth algorithm has been introduced to improve consistency between trees modeled interactively using brushing and trees grown autonomously. The original sketching and growing algorithm remains available as the “artistic” algorithm.

Rendering
• Rendering has been enhanced to include shadows and scattered light. Direction of light illuminating the scene can be interactively manipulated by dragging the sun in the sky.
• Trees can carry fruit, buds and thorns. Their distribution and appearance can be controlled via a dedicated tab.

Interface
• TreeSketch 2.0 “flowcurves” have been replaced with the sketch-based tropism option to improve control of growth direction using sketching.
• TreeSketch 2.0 post-editing of branches has been improved by replacing over-sketching with multi-touch branch bending.
• Key architectural parameters can be more conveniently manipulated using specialized widgets.
• Color attributes (hue, saturation and brightness), including those of textures, can be manipulated using specialized colored sliders
• Growth and/or rendering parameters from previously saved trees can be loaded as presets for new growth.
• Brushing gestures can be visualized to illustrate the construction of the models.

Download TreeSketch 3.0 from iTunes

Visit the TreeSketch website
(Includes more video demos, mainly for the previous version of the app)