Lab 1 - Task 3: Fractals (Barnsley Fern)

This repository contains my implementation of the Barnsley fern fractal for COMP3710 Lab 1, Task 3.

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Code Overview

• fern.py generates the fern using an Iterated Function System (IFS).
• Four transformation rules define the stem, main body, and side leaflets.
• A random rule is chosen at each iteration based on its probability.
• Points are plotted using Matplotlib to display the fractal fern.

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AI Assistance

I used ChatGPT to help me understand concepts and debug some code.
For example, I asked:

“Write PyTorch code for the Barnsley fern fractal with comments.”

It suggested a version with GPU support, but since Colab was on CPU I adapted the code by forcing device="cpu".
I also asked about best practices for probability selection and plotting.

All final code was reviewed and edited by me.
I added my own comments in a style that makes sense to me, so I can present confidently in the demo.

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Learning Outcome

This task helped me understand:

• Iterated Function Systems (IFS)
• Affine transformations and probabilities in fractals
• How randomness plus rules can generate structured natural shapes
• How to responsibly use AI for coding: take inspiration but still understand and adapt everything

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Running the Code

python fern.py