Computer Graphics (CG) is a discipline that studies the principles, methods and techniques of using computers to process graphics. It mainly focuses on how to represent graphics in computers, as well as the relevant principles and algorithms for calculating, processing and displaying graphics using computers. The following is a detailed analysis of computer graphics:
1. Historical development
Origin: Computer graphics originated in 1963, when Sutherland of MIT Lincoln Laboratory completed his doctoral thesis on the graphics system of human-computer communication. This achievement is considered to be the foundation of computer graphics.
Important development stages:
+ In the 1970s, with the birth of raster displays, raster graphics algorithms developed rapidly, and graphics entered its first heyday.
+ Since the mid-1980s, due to the development of large-scale integrated circuits and the improvement of computer hardware performance, graphics has developed rapidly, and the algorithms of realistic graphics have gradually matured.
+ After entering the millennium, CGI technology continued to develop rapidly, especially in the fields of film and video games, which greatly promoted the development of computer graphics.
2. Research content
Computer graphics mainly studies the following aspects:
Graphic representation: Research on how to represent two-dimensional or three-dimensional graphics in computers, including the representation methods of geometric elements such as points, lines, surfaces, and bodies.
Graphic generation: Research on graphics generation algorithms, such as raster graphics generation algorithms, wireframe graphics generation algorithms, etc.
Graphic processing: Research on methods and techniques for transforming, projecting, clipping, rendering, and other operations on graphics.
Graphic interaction: Research on how to achieve interaction between users and graphics through computer input and output devices.
3. Core goals
The core goal of computer graphics is to create effective visual communication. This can be broken down into three basic tasks: representation, interaction, and drawing. Specifically, it is to "interactively" "represent" and "draw" a colorful subjective and objective world in the computer.
4. Application areas
The application areas of computer graphics are very wide, including but not limited to the following aspects:
User interface: Provide users with an intuitive and friendly graphical interface.
Computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM): Use computer graphics technology for design, modeling, and manufacturing processes.
Scientific computing visualization: Display scientific data in the form of graphics and images to help people better understand scientific phenomena.
Entertainment industry: Computer graphics plays an increasingly important role in movies, animation, games and other fields.
Education and training: Teaching through graphics to improve teaching effectiveness and learning interest.
Virtual reality and augmented reality: Use computer graphics technology to create virtual or augmented reality environments to provide users with an immersive experience.
5. Technological frontiers
With the continuous development of computer technology, computer graphics is also making continuous progress. At present, the technological frontiers in the field of computer graphics include differentiable computational geometry, efficient ray tracing technology, and graphics generation and processing technology based on deep learning. The development of these technologies will further promote the application and development of computer graphics in various fields.
In summary, computer graphics is an interdisciplinary and comprehensive discipline that integrates knowledge and technology from multiple fields such as computer science, mathematics, and physics, providing strong technical support and rich visual experience for various fields of modern society.