Computer Graphics

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The goal of the course is to introduce topography engineering students to the field of computer graphics, and acquaint them to elementary notions and techniques. Furthermore, to introduce students to the understanding of the relation of computer graphics to theoretical subjects introduced in earlier semesters (e.g. analytical geometry, linear algebra) as well as provide an overview of applications and the use of graphics technology in modern topography.

 

General Competences

•  Search for, analysis and synthesis of data and information, with the use of the necessary technology
• Working independently
• Production of free, creative and inductive thinking

 

SYLLABUS

Introduction: Introduction to graphics, historical overview, applications, elementary notions. Drawing algorithms: Introduction, mathematical curves and finite differences, line drawing algorithms. Checking for internal points, polygon drawing. Antialiasing in space: Antialiasing with pre-filtering, antialiasing with post-filtering, clipping algorithms in 2D: point clipping, line clipping (Cohen-Sutherland, Skala, Liang-Barksy), polygon clipping (Sutherland-Hodgman, Greiner-Horman algorithms). Coordinates systems and transformations in 2D and 3D: Introduction to transformations, affine transformations, transformation compositions, 2D and 3D homogeneous affine transformations. Representation of rotations with quaternions. Projections: Perpsective projection, parallel projection, observation transformation. Removing hidden surfaces: Z-buffer algorithm. Colour in graphics and optimization: Gray-scale and colour images.
Parametric curves and surfaces: Bezier curver, deCasteljau algorithm, Bernstein polyonyms. Lighting / shading algorithms. Phong model, Gouraud model. A number of the presented techniques are to be implemented during the course using the Python programming language, such as line drawing techniques, point transformations, drawing of parametric curves.

 

STUDENT PERFORMANCE EVALUATION

Language of evaluation: Greek
Methods of evaluation:• Written exam at the end of the semester (multiple choice questionnaires, short-answer questions, & problem-solving questions)
• Homework (practical exercises on both theoretical and practical objectives related to the course)

 

RECOMMENDED LITERATURE

1. Theocharis T., Papapioannou G., Platis N., Patrikalakis N., “Graphics and Visualization: Principles and algorithms”, 2019.

In Greek:
1. Βardis G., “Γραφικά Υπολογιστών & Προγραμματισμός WebGL”, 2020.