Some Non-Biological Applications of L-Systems

Some non-biological applications of L-systems are given. It is shown that one can generate a variety or interesting and complex structures and designs by graphically interpreting (in two and three dimensions) on an IBM PC compatible computer the strings of simple L-systems. Two novel applications of the two-dimensional graphical interpretation are given. One is for rapidly creating designs and written directions for weaving a given piece of cloth. The second one is in manufacturing, specifically to the process of configuring electronic components in a standard rack. Another novel application is for the three-dimensional graphical interpretation. It is shown that with this interpretation, L-systems can be used in architecture, such as for designing contemporary and colonial houses and lake cottages, and for generating architectural plans. Still another novel application of L-system is to mathematics. It is shown that L-systems can be used to carry out many mathematical computations like calculating factorial, summing series, finding the values of various functions, etc. Finally, three other non-biological applications of L-systems are summarized. They are for writing musical compositions using L-systems and playing it on a microcomputer, cryptology (for coding and encoding secret messages), and for calculating scattering from terrestrial objects for use in remote sensing.