Skylight approximation for simulation of plant development

This paper presents an algorithm for approximating the sky brightness of a clear sky with sunshine. The sky light and the light reflected from the ground are approximated by a finite set of parallel light beams. The long-term simulation is considered by averaging the radiance of the lights over a certain time period. The main area of interest of the method is considered to be, but is not restricted to, the visual simulation of (botanical) plant development.