modifier stack

SOP: Terraform Modifier Stack

Objective

The objective of this SOP is to guide you through the process of using the modifier stack in Terraform to refine terrains into more realistic shapes by applying various operations such as erosion simulations and design-focused modifications.

Key Steps

1. Accessing the Modifier Stack

   • Open Terraform and load the terrain grid with noise applied.

   • Navigate to the modifier stack section.

2. Adding a Deformation Layer

   • Click on the "Add Layer" button to create a new deformation layer.

   • Choose the desired operation from the drop-down menu (e.g., hydraulic erosion).

   • Adjust parameters such as iterations, water height, capacity constant, erosion constant, deposition constant, rain rate, and evaporation rate to customize the simulation.

3. Real-Time Updates

   • Utilize the real-time updates in the viewport to monitor changes as you adjust parameters.

4. Multi-Resolution Processing

   • Optionally enable multi-resolution processing for certain deformation functions that support it.

   • Understand that not all operations are compatible with multi-resolution processing.

   • Note that multi-resolution processing splits the terrain into multiple resolutions for more detailed simulations.

5. Adding Additional Layers

   • Add more layers with different operations to further refine the terrain.

   • Edit parameters of any previous layer at any time for iterative adjustments.

6. Finalizing the Terrain

   • Experiment with different operations and parameters to achieve a more lifelike and believable terrain shape.

   • Save your progress and continue refining the terrain as needed.

Cautionary Notes

• Be mindful of the complexity of the math involved in simulations, especially with higher resolutions.

• Some deformation functions may not work with multi-resolution processing, so check the documentation for compatibility.

• Ensure that the chosen operations and parameters align with the desired outcome for the terrain.

Tips for Efficiency

• Familiarize yourself with the different operations available in the modifier stack.

• Experiment with various parameters to understand their impact on the terrain.

• Take advantage of real-time updates to visualize changes instantly.

• Save your progress periodically to avoid losing work.

• Refer to the reference documentation on Terraform's website for detailed information on deformation functions and operations.

Link to Loom

https://www.loom.com/share/a432e1d5ce2c44c483fe5ce6fc4aac58