Cellular Automaton Simulator
Show HN: Scanner for cellular automata rule space
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What is Cellular Automaton Simulator?
An interactive web-based simulator for one-dimensional cellular automata with configurable states, totalistic and local rules. Designed for researchers and enthusiasts to explore cellular automaton behavior, from simple rule configurations to complex pattern analysis and glider detection.
Cellular Automaton Simulator pricing
Pricing model: Freemium
Cellular Automaton Simulator pros
- Highly configurable rule system supporting custom state counts, totalistic/local rules, and variable neighborhood sizes
- Built-in analysis tools automatically classify rules (Dead, Fixed, Periodic, Chaotic, Complex) and detect gliders/spaceships
- Can export arbitrarily large PNG images without browser canvas size limitations (tested up to 10000×10000)
- Advanced pattern visualization with chunking and color-mapping to spot recurring structures
Cellular Automaton Simulator cons
- Steep learning curve for casual users; interface assumes familiarity with cellular automaton theory
- Limited to 1D cellular automata (no 2D/3D support)
- No offline capability; entirely web-based
Frequently asked questions about Cellular Automaton Simulator
How large can the exported images be?
The tool can render very large fields (e.g., 10000×10000 cells) and export directly to PNG, limited only by available browser memory, not canvas size limits.
What do the rule classification tags mean?
Tags classify rule behavior: Dead (dies out), Fixed (reaches still state), Periodic (repeating cycle), Stable (constant live cells), Chaotic (unpredictable), Complex (localized structures), or Undefined (didn't settle).
How do I search for specific patterns?
Use the Custom Search tool to define templates with concrete states (0/1), wildcards (*), or variables (x1, x2) to find or exclude patterns across the entire spacetime diagram.
Can I save and load my rules?
Yes, the tool supports saving and loading rules/tags to and from files for later use.