Multi-level description of leaf index based on analysis of canopy structure

Abstract

Taking into account the influence of illumination, crown in different directions and leaves of internal and external receive different light irradiation. The leaf surface morphology, as well as the entire crown contour profile responds to the change of external environment. The paper explain fundamentally the characteristics of leaf by the establishment of various mathematical models, such as finds the relationship between leaf shape and the tree profile based on leaf index, analyses how to classify the leaves by using Cluster Analysis and estimates the leaf mass of a tree which utilizing the idea of multiple integrals .Above all, we build up the crown contour model based on what can make the surface area largest. By validating, in order to make the crown to accept the largest area of illumination( that is to say leaves overlapping degree should be minimized) so as to maximize exposure to sunlight, so we establish the geometric solid of the canopy model which is surrounded by spherical surface and inscribed cone. We also discuss the problem of model validation in some aspects and review various methods to assess the quality and reliability of our results. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.