A Computer Simulation of the Branching Structure Formation Using a Flow System Model

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a model of the flow system and consider its formation and validity of the branching structure which is frequently observed in the flow system. To evaluate our model, we use the simulation program which executes formation of the branching structure in the flow system. Here, we define the flow system as a system which transports or transmits a stream of materials, energy and information in the system et al. The flow system is often seen in the natural world and the man-made social system. By analyzing the natural flow systems, it is expected that many useful principles for a design of the man-made flow systems could be obtained. For example, by adaptation to environment through a long term process of evolution, trees, as the flow system of creatures seen in the natural world, seem to have an ideal economical form for low consumption of resources. Hence, we attempt to construct the flow system model by referring to the tree form, and considering optimization and adaptation to environment. Simulation results show that low consumption of cost and efficient absorption of energy are realized by the branching structure.