Course syllabus - Fundamentals of Computer Graphics

Objectives

The purpose of the course is to give both a theoretical and practical understanding of the most well-known methods for rendering of images from given three-dimensional descriptions of scenes and objects. By considering polygonal meshes and different lighting models, from simple local to more advanced global illumination models, the different stages that are included in both rasterization and ray tracing algorithms are presented and motivated. In addition, the course aims to give practical experience of programming using OpenGL. 

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

1. explain how models can be translated, scaled, rotated, and sheared by transformation matrices including the use of homogenous coordinates and concatenated transformations,
2. present the different stages of the traditional graphics pipeline in detail,
3. explain the most common local illumination models and how they can be applied during rasterization of polygonal models,
4. explain how different visual effects can be accomplished by mapping techniques, such as texture mapping, bump mapping, environment mapping, and shadow mapping, and what limitations these methods implicate,
5. present the principles behind the most well-known global illumination methods such as ray tracing and radiosity, and also explain the fundamental differences between these methods,
6. describe some of the current research areas in computer graphics,
7. show ability to solve problems and tasks individually based on the mathematical foundations of the subject,
8. program graphics applications for rendering of 3D graphics using OpenGL and OpenGL Shading Language (GLSL) and
9. critically examine, assess, and present a selected current scientific work in subject area.
 

Course content

Raster graphics, vector graphics, polygonal models, affine transformations, homogeneous coordinates, concatenated transformations, view specification, projection, rendering pipeline, local illumination models, back-face culling and visible surface determination, clipping, bounding volumes, view frustum culling, texture mapping, bump mapping, environment mapping, shadow mapping, graphics hardware, shader programming, OpenGL, OpenGL Shading Language, global illumination, ray tracing, radiosity, overview of current research.

Tuition

Lectures, exercises, laboratory work and supervision.

Specific requirements

At least 60 credits in computer science, including Programming 7.5 credits and Data structures, algorithms, and program construction 7.5 credits. Furthermore, Basic vector algebra 7.5 credits is required.

Examination

Written assignment (INL1), Written and oral presentation of problem sets, 1.5 credits, marks Fail (U) or Pass (G), (examines the learning objective 7)
Laboratory work (LAB1), Presentation and demonstration of programming tasks, 3 credits, marks Fail (U) or Pass (G), (examines the learning objective 8)
Examination (TEN1), Written examination, 1.5 credits, marks Fail (U). 3, 4 or 5,  (examines the learning objectives 1-7)
Memorandum (PMO1), Written presentation. PM about a selected current research area, and also presentation of a review exercise, 1.5 credits, marks Fail (U) or Pass (G), (examines the learning objectives 6 and 9)

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Grading scale: 5, 4, 3