Introduction to Computer Graphics: Using Java 2D and 3D (Undergraduate Topics in Computer Science)

Computer graphics comprises the creation and representation of simple graphical elements and images, as well as modern techniques for rendering a virtual reality. To apply these techniques correctly, one requires a basic understanding of the fundamental concepts in graphics. This book introduces the most important basic concepts of computer graphics, coupling the technical background and theory with practical examples and applications throughout. Its user-friendly approach enables the reader to gain understanding through the theory at work, via the many example programs provided. With only elementary knowledge of the programming language Java, the reader will be able to create their own images and animations immediately, using Java 2D and/or Java 3D. Features: • Presents computer graphics theory and practice in integrated combination • Focuses on the increasingly used Java 3D (and 2D in the first section of the book) • Uses many pedagogical tools, including numerous easy-to-understand example programs and end-of-chapter exercises • Offers Internet support for students and instructors (found at http://public.rz.fh-wolfenbuettel.de/~klawonn/computergraphics), such as additional exercises, solutions, program examples, slides for lecturers and links to useful websites • Provides an ideal, self-contained introduction to computer graphics Written for second year undergraduates and above, this reader-friendly, clear and concise textbook will be an essential tool for those studying Computer Science and Computer Engineering. Frank Klawonn has many years of experience teaching computer graphics and coordinating application projects with companies. This book provides an introduction to the most important basic concepts of computer graphics. It couples the technical background and theory immediately with practical examples and applications. The reader can follow up the theory and then literally see the theory at work in numerous example programs. With only elementary knowledge of the programming language Java, the reader will be able to create his or her own images and animations immediately using Java 2D and Java 3D. A website for this book includes programs with source code, exercises with solutions and slides as teaching material. Front Matter....Pages i-xvii Introduction....Pages 1-5 Basic principles of two-dimensional graphics....Pages 7-48 Drawing lines and curves....Pages 49-86 Areas, text and colours....Pages 87-112 Basic principles of three-dimensional graphics....Pages 113-147 Modelling three-dimensional objects....Pages 149-178 Visible surface determination....Pages 179-199 Illumination and shading....Pages 201-238 Special effects and virtual reality....Pages 239-263 Back Matter....Pages 265-283 Frank Klawonn. Includes Bibliographical References (p. [277]-280) And Index.