Stanford CS 148: Introduction to Computer Graphics is a comprehensive course that delves into the fundamental principles and techniques of computer graphics. The course is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the concepts, algorithms, and technologies used in the field of computer graphics. This course is a crucial part of the Stanford University Computer Science department's curriculum, attracting students from various disciplines, including computer science, electrical engineering, and fine arts.
Course Overview
The course covers a wide range of topics, including 2D and 3D transformations, projections, and viewing. It also explores the fundamentals of rendering, including ray tracing, rasterization, and global illumination. Additionally, the course introduces students to 3D modeling techniques, such as polygon meshes and NURBS. The course also covers animation and simulation techniques, including keyframe animation and physics-based simulation.
Course Structure
The course is structured into several modules, each focusing on a specific aspect of computer graphics. The modules include:
- Introduction to Computer Graphics
- 2D and 3D Transformations
- Projections and Viewing
- Rendering
- 3D Modeling
- Animation and Simulation
Each module includes a combination of lectures, assignments, and projects, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with the concepts and techniques covered in the course.
| Module | Description |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Computer Graphics | Overview of the field of computer graphics, including its history, applications, and fundamental principles |
| 2D and 3D Transformations | Coverage of 2D and 3D transformations, including translations, rotations, and scaling |
| Projections and Viewing | Introduction to projections and viewing, including perspective and orthographic projections |
| Rendering | Coverage of rendering techniques, including ray tracing, rasterization, and global illumination |
| 3D Modeling | Introduction to 3D modeling techniques, including polygon meshes and NURBS |
| Animation and Simulation | Coverage of animation and simulation techniques, including keyframe animation and physics-based simulation |
Assignments and Projects
The course includes a range of assignments and projects that allow students to apply the concepts and techniques covered in the course. These assignments and projects include:
- Implementing 2D and 3D transformations using OpenGL
- Creating 3D models using Blender or Maya
- Implementing rendering techniques, such as ray tracing or rasterization
- Creating animations using keyframe animation or physics-based simulation
These assignments and projects help students develop a deep understanding of the concepts and techniques covered in the course, as well as the skills and knowledge required to work in the field of computer graphics.
Performance Analysis
The course includes a range of performance analysis tools and techniques, allowing students to evaluate the performance of their assignments and projects. These tools and techniques include:
- Profiling tools, such as gprof or Intel VTune Amplifier
- Benchmarking tools, such as GLBenchmark or Unigine Heaven
- Debugging tools, such as gdb or Visual Studio Debugger
These tools and techniques help students identify performance bottlenecks and optimize their code for better performance.
What is the primary focus of Stanford CS 148: Introduction to Computer Graphics?
+The primary focus of Stanford CS 148: Introduction to Computer Graphics is to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and techniques of computer graphics, including 2D and 3D transformations, projections, rendering, 3D modeling, animation, and simulation.
What are the key challenges in computer graphics?
+The key challenges in computer graphics include achieving real-time rendering while maintaining high-quality visuals, as well as optimizing code for performance. Additionally, computer graphics requires a deep understanding of the underlying algorithms and techniques, as well as the ability to work with a range of tools and technologies.
What are the career opportunities for students who complete Stanford CS 148: Introduction to Computer Graphics?
+Students who complete Stanford CS 148: Introduction to Computer Graphics can pursue a range of career opportunities in the field of computer graphics, including game development, film and animation, virtual reality, and scientific visualization. Additionally, the skills and knowledge gained in the course can be applied to a range of other fields, including computer science, electrical engineering, and fine arts.
