CS602 Computer Graphics

CS602: Computer Graphics

CS602 Computer Graphics is a fascinating course that explores the algorithms and techniques used to generate and manipulate visual images by computer. This field is the driving force behind video games, animated films (like Pixar's), scientific visualization, and the graphical user interfaces (GUIs) we use every day. This course delves into the mathematics and computer science behind creating realistic and interactive 2D and 3D worlds.

The course starts with the fundamentals of 2D graphics, learning how to draw simple geometric shapes, and then builds up to the complexities of 3D modeling, rendering, and animation. You will learn about the "graphics pipeline," the series of steps a computer (specifically, the Graphics Processing Unit or GPU) takes to turn a 3D model into a 2D image on your screen.

Key Topics Covered:

• Graphics Pipeline and Hardware: An overview of the components of a graphics system, including display devices (raster-scan vs. random-scan) and the GPU.
• 2D Graphics Algorithms: The mathematical algorithms for drawing fundamental shapes, such as line-drawing algorithms (Bresenham's) and circle-drawing algorithms. We will also cover polygon filling and clipping.
• Geometric Transformations (2D and 3D): Using matrix mathematics to manipulate objects. This includes translation (moving), rotation, and scaling of objects in both 2D and 3D space using homogeneous coordinates.
• 3D Viewing and Projection: The core of 3D graphics. This involves defining a "camera" in a 3D world and projecting the 3D scene onto a 2D view plane. This covers orthographic and perspective projection, which gives 3D objects their sense of depth.
• 3D Modeling: Techniques for representing 3D objects in a computer, such as polygonal meshes, splines, and Bezier curves.
• Rendering Techniques:
  • Lighting and Shading: Simulating the interaction of light with surfaces to create realism. This includes shading models like Phong and Gouraud.
  • Visibility/Hidden Surface Removal: Algorithms (like the Z-buffer) to determine which objects are in front of others.
  • Texturing: Applying 2D images (textures) to 3D models to add detail.
• Introduction to Animation: Basic principles of computer-based animation, such as keyframing.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the complete 2D and 3D graphics pipeline.
2. Implement fundamental graphics algorithms for drawing and transforming shapes.
3. Master the matrix mathematics behind 2D/3D transformations and projections.
4. Design and implement basic lighting, shading, and texturing models.
5. Gain hands-on experience by building a simple graphics renderer or application using a library like OpenGL.

CS602 is a challenging but visually rewarding course that combines mathematics, algorithms, and programming. It provides the foundational skills for careers in game development, virtual reality, special effects, and scientific visualization.