GeoPatternLab

Cellular Automata

Elementary cellular automata woven into intricate row-by-row patterns.

One row of cells evolves downward by a simple rule. Try rules 30, 90 and 110.

About Cellular Automata

Watch a single row of cells evolve into an intricate triangular tapestry using Wolfram's elementary cellular automata (Rule 30, 90, 110 and more). Pick the rule, grid resolution, and colors, and export SVG or a high-resolution PNG.

How to use Cellular Automata

  1. Press Play. Start Cellular Automata and watch the animation evolve in real time. Use Pause and Step to inspect it frame by frame.
  2. Adjust the rules. Use the side panel to change the parameters — the simulation responds live, so you can steer the emerging pattern.
  3. Explore variations. Press Randomize for a new starting point, or copy the share link to reproduce an exact result.
  4. Export. Pause on a frame you like and download it as a high-resolution PNG or a scalable SVG.

Frequently asked questions

What is Cellular Automata?

Watch a single row of cells evolve into an intricate triangular tapestry using Wolfram's elementary cellular automata (Rule 30, 90, 110 and more). Pick the rule, grid resolution, and colors, and export SVG or a high-resolution PNG. It runs entirely in your web browser on GeoPatternLab, free and with no sign-up.

Is Cellular Automata free to use?

Yes. Cellular Automata on GeoPatternLab is completely free, with no sign-up or download required. Create as much art as you like and export it directly from your browser.

How do I download my Cellular Automata artwork?

Use the export buttons in the toolbar to save your work as a high-resolution PNG or a scalable SVG. Files download straight to your device.

Does Cellular Automata work on phones and tablets?

Yes. Cellular Automata is fully responsive and works with touch input on phones and tablets as well as with a mouse or trackpad on desktop.

Can I use Cellular Automata artwork commercially?

Yes. Artwork you create with Cellular Automata is yours to use for personal and commercial projects, such as wallpapers, prints, textiles, and teaching materials. See our Terms of Use for full details.

Related tools

Explore more free pattern generators and geometric art tools on GeoPatternLab:

  • Game of Life — Conway's Game of Life and other life-like cellular automata, animated live.
  • Brian's Brain — A three-state cellular automaton that erupts into shifting, spark-like waves.
  • Cyclic Cellular Automata — Colorful cyclic automata that self-organize into rotating spirals.
  • Langton's Ant — A tiny ant that turns on colors and builds surprising highways.
  • Turmites — Two-dimensional Turing machines that draw spirals, worms and lace.
  • Wireworld — A four-state automaton for simulating electrons racing through circuits.

Browse all 48 tools.