Introduction to Computer Graphics

Sunirmal Khatua
Department of Computer Science & Engineering
University of Calcutta
 What is Computer Graphics?

Computer Graphics generally means display, manipulation and

storage of models, images or experimental data for proper
visualization using a computer.

A 3D projection of a 4D Pentachoron performing a double rotation

about two orthogonal planes.
 Graphics Applications

Entertainment : Cinema

Monsters Inc. Final Fantasy

 Graphics Applications

Entertainment : Video Games

 Graphics Applications
Medical Visualization
 Graphics Applications
Scientific Visualization
 Graphics Applications
Computer Aided Design (CAD)
 Graphics Applications
Computer Aided Training (CAT)
 Graphics Applications
Daily Use
 Graphics Applications
Simulation
 Graphics Packages & Standards
Core Graphics
GKS (Graphics Kernel System)
SRGP (Simple Raster Graphics Package)
PHIGS, SPHIGS and PEX 3D
( Programmers Hierarchical Interactive Graphics System )

OpenGL
X11 based System
Certain compilers, such as C/C++ or Java, provide their
own graphical library and API for 2D/3D graphics
Fundamental Concepts & Principles in
Computer Graphics
Display Systems
CRT basics, Storage display, Random scan display, Raster scan display

Scan Conversion
Drawing of Points, Lines, Curves, Circles, Eclipses, Polyline, Polygon, Fill style, Fill pattern

Transformations
Affine : Rotation, Translation, Scale, Reflection & Shear
Viewing and clipping

Hidden Surface Removal

Back face culling, Painters algorithm, Scan line algorithm, BSP trees, Z-buffer algorithm etc.

Curves
Bezier curves & B-spline curves

Colors & Shading

Fundamental Concepts & Principles in
Computer Graphics (cont.)
In general there are three main tasks for generating 2D
images of a 3D world represented in a computer:
Modeling:
Creating and representing the geometry of the object in
the 3D world for forming the shape of the object.
Rendering:
Rendering converts a model into image by applying
light tracing and perspective to the model
Animation:
Describing how objects change in time.
 Recommended Text Books
Computer Graphics
-- D. Hearn & M. Baker

Computer Graphics
-- F. S. Hill