Fractal geometry-based 3D digital twin for plant growth simulation
A digital twin platform that uses fractal geometry to simulate plant growth, predicting morphological responses to environmental conditions. Enables agricultural researchers and breeders to model plant development under varying climates, supporting crop optimization, phenotyping, and precision agriculture research.
Overview
This solution applies fractal geometry to create a 3D digital twin capable of simulating plant growth and predicting how plants respond to different climatic and morphological factors. By integrating a fractal-based growth model with morphological data and structured databases, the platform can replicate plant development stages and forecast physical changes driven by environmental conditions. Potential applications include agricultural research, crop breeding, precision agriculture, and plant phenotyping, where simulating growth scenarios can reduce the time and cost of field experimentation.
Technical specifications
- Fractal-based 3D modeling approach that captures self-similar patterns in plant architecture
- Integration of morphological measurements with environmental response data
- Implementation using the OpenAlea modeling tool, an open-source platform for plant architecture simulation
- JSON-based data input interface enabling connection with external datasets and sensors
- Capability to simulate key plant attributes including leaf count, leaf length, color, and overall shape
- Designed to be adaptable to multiple plant species by identifying the fractal component specific to each species
Technology readiness level
The technology has been validated through prior undergraduate and master's research, where a 3D fractal-based model was successfully developed to simulate the growth of rice plants. Validation experiments compared model predictions against real plant data, including visual characterization and measurement of leaf length and number, yielding simulated values that closely approximate real plant behavior. Future validation plans include extending the model to additional plant species, identifying their fractal growth components, and running replicated experimental designs to evaluate plant responses to diverse environmental conditions.
About Pontificia Universidad Javeriana
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana is a comprehensive private Jesuit university with major campuses in Bogotá and Cali, pairing broad academic breadth with applied, mission-driven research. For industry partners, co-located laboratories and prototyping spaces sit alongside a university hospital and clinical network, enabling bench-to-bedside collaboration and validation. Dedicated units for corporate engagement, IP management, and venture creation streamline sponsored research, contract testing, licensing, and spinout support. Research draws competitive national and international funding, including programs from Colombia’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation as well as multilateral and philanthropic sources. A centralized technology transfer office offers clear pathways for confidentiality, material transfer, and patenting with agreement models suited to multinational collaboration.
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