The Essence Of Computer Graphics

The Prentice Hall Essence of Computing Series provides a concise, practical and uniform introduction to the core components of an undergraduate computing degree. Complementing the current teaching structure within Higher Education, this approach uses a variety of pedagogical tools - case studies, worked examples and self-test questions - to underpin the student's learning. The Essence of Computer Graphics provides a clear and concise overview of this subject, emphasising practical issues related to the implementation of graphics programs. An accessible introduction to fundamental topics, 2 dimensions are developed logically through to 3 dimensions from plane curves, via space curves, to curved surfaces. In addition, two-dimensional data structures are put into the context of Graph Theory in order to aid comprehension of the concepts involved. This applications-oriented text concludes with selected advanced techniques to give the reader a feel for the immense potential of the use of computer graphics today. Key Features : uses C++ as a programming language ; covers fundamental topics in 2D and 3D computer graphics ; includes a brief survey of more advanced techniques in the final chapter, including morphing, animation and character recognition ; numerous pedagogical features include chapter motivations, illustrations, exercises and worked examples ; emphasis on practical issues, based on the authors extensive experience ; mathematical concepts are introduced gradually for non-mathematicians ; web site containing colour images, further exercises and sample code to examples in the book (wwwbooksites.net/cooley).