An Introduction to Computer Graphics and Creative 3-D Environments

This book introduces the fundamentals of 2-D and 3-D computer graphics. Additionally, a range of emerging, creative 3-D display technologies are described, including stereoscopic systems, immersive virtual reality, volumetric, varifocal, and others.

Interaction is a vital aspect of modern computer graphics, and issues concerning interaction (including haptic feedback) are discussed. Included with the book are anaglyph, stereoscopic, and Pulfrich viewing glasses. Topics covered include: - essential mathematics, - vital 2-D and 3-D graphics techniques, - key features of the graphics, - pipeline, - display and interaction techniques, - important historical milestones.

Designed to be a core teaching text at the undergraduate level, accessible to students with wide-ranging backgrounds, only an elementary grounding in mathematics is assumed as key maths is provided. Regular ‘Over to You’ activities are included, and each chapter concludes with review and discussion questions.

Key Features:

An introduction to 2-D and 3-D computer graphics techniques, emphasising fundamental issues that underpin image formation and manipulation.

Key mathematical concepts so only an elementary knowledge of mathematics is required.

The evolution of image depiction from traditional artwork through to state-of-the-art computer display systems.

Discussion on a range of emerging creative 3-D display technologies including stereoscopic, multiview, volumetric, varifocal, and holographic approaches.

Emphasis on the natural synergy that should exist between display and interaction technologies: bi-manual and haptic feedback systems are introduced.

Includes Anaglyph, Pulfrich and Stereo viewing glasses.

Over To You (OTU) exercises within each chapter, together with solutions to selected exercises.

An extensive bibliography for reference and further reading.

Barry Blundell adopts a refreshing trans-disciplinary approach by bringing together content that is accessible to science and humanity students alike. This book has been developed to support the teaching of traditional computer graphics (2-D and 3-D), along with emerging creative 3-D display and interaction technologies. It is designed as an introductory course text for use at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Barry G Blundell (PhD) is a physicist and engineer currently with the Faculty of Design and Creative Technologies at Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand. He has taught and researched in the area of 3-D display and interaction technologies for over twenty years. He has published a number of research and teaching textbooks.