Hello Scott,
At 02:30 20.09.00 , you wrote:
>For extra credit, I'd like to build a GUI that will draw the 3D graph and
>(if possible) show the genetic algorithm's attempts to locate the maximum
>(i.e., dynamically "flash" points produced by the genetic algorithm as
>possible maximums).
>
>I'm new to Java 3D, so I'm wondering - can the mathematical function
>described above be implemented (relatively painlessly!) with Java 3D? If
>so, what would be a good place to start?
I don't have any experience at what you're doing, but from what I know I'm
sure it's quite feasible. Here is the approach I would take:
Construct a SimpleUniverse, and inside that place a scene graph with just
two nodes: A PointLightSource (so your graph will be illuminated with
different intensities at different angles, and thus appear nicely solid)
and a Shape3D, which will be your graph. The Shape3D will have Geometry
attached to it which will be a 'net' of triangles connecting vertices whose
positions represent points on your graph. You could lay out x1 as x (going
right and left) and x2 as z (coming out of/going into the screen) and
f(x1,x2) as y (going up and down). Sample x1 and x2 at 100 points each and
you get 10,000 vertices, that should make for a nicely detailed landscape.
Once you have the graph done, things like flashing points will seem simple.
I'd use little Spheres, that way you can control the size of the 'points'
so they'll be nicely visible. Each time your search finds a "better" point,
add a "glowing" Sphere to your scene graph.
To implement this, you will want to have the latest Java2 JDK on your
machine. It's available from http://www.javasoft.com/j2se/1.3/ .
You will need the Java3D JRE and JDK, available from
http://www.javasoft.com/products/java-media/3D/download.html .
Many people have trouble with installing and running J3D. You will want to
look at the J3D.ORG's page at http://www.j3d.org/ (where else?), especially
the "installing Java3D" and "FAQ" pages. For best results, look at these
BEFORE you start tinkering.
Then, you'll need to learn how to use the Java3D API. A good introductory
treatment is the Java3D tutorial on this page:
http://www.javasoft.com/products/java-media/3D/collateral/ . You'll need
Chapters 1, 2, 3 and 6.
If you have further questions, you'll find the group at this list friendly
and helpful.
Hope this helps,
-Carl-
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