Computer Graphics Assignment
Computer Graphics Assignment
Submitted to Worku W.
April 27,2024
Computer Graphics Written Assignment
A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to store,
retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can use a computer to type documents,
send email, play games, and browse the Web.
A pixel is one of the small dots or squares that make up an image on a computer screen. The more
pixels there are, the more the image looks real or accurate. Any digital image is made up of pixels,
and when someone talks about the resolution of a computer monitor or TV screen, they’re referring
to the number of pixels.
It is in charge of providing users with an effective visual display in digital photography, cinema and
television, video games, and electronic devices.
One of the earliest computer graphics systems was the Whirlwind system developed at the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the early 1950s. This system was used for real-time
digital computer graphics display.
Another significant development was the work of Ivan Sutherland, who created the Sketchpad
system at MIT in 1962. Sketchpad is considered to be the first graphical user interface program and
laid the foundation for modern computer-aided design (CAD) software.
In the 1970s, computer graphics started to gain momentum with the development of the first
commercial graphics terminal, the Imlac PDS-1, and the development of the pioneering 3D graphics
software, “GEORGE,” by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
The 1980s saw significant advancements with the introduction of personal computers and the
development of graphics software such as Adobe Photoshop , Autodesk and AutoCAD. The release
of the Pixar Image Computer in 1986 marked a major milestone in computer graphics history, as it
was one of the first commercially available computers dedicated to 3D graphics rendering.
The 1990s brought about a revolution in the form of 3D computer graphics with the release of
movies like “Toy Story” by Pixar, which was the first feature-length film created entirely using
computer-generated imagery (CGI). This decade also saw the rise of computer gaming and the
increasing use of graphics software in various industries such as architecture, engineering, and
medicine.
In the 2000s and beyond, computer graphics continued to advance rapidly with the development of
powerful graphics processing units (GPUs) and the widespread use of 3D modelling and animation
in movies, video games, virtual reality, and augmented reality.
Throughout this history, computer graphics have evolved from simple wireframe models to highly
realistic and interactive 3D visuals, revolutionizing the way we interact with digital content.
1. Visualization: Complex ideas, designs, and data may be visualized thanks to computer graphics,
which facilitates effective information understanding and communication. This is very helpful in
industries like engineering, architecture, and medicine.
2. Creativity and Expression: The ability to create visually spectacular images, animations, and
designs is made possible by graphics software, which gives artists and designers the freedom to
express their creativity in new and inventive ways.
3. Simulations: Realistic simulations for education, amusement, and scientific study are made
possible in large part by computer graphics. Computer graphics are used, for instance, to create
realistic and immersive scenes in flight simulators and virtual reality applications.
4. Data Representation: Data analysis and decision-making procedures are aided by the use of
graphics, which provide complex data in an aesthetically pleasing and easily comprehensible
style.
5. Entertainment: To produce visually stunning films, video games, and special effects that
improve the entire experience for viewers, the entertainment sector significantly depends on
computer graphics.
6. Marketing and Advertising: Businesses can attract and engage their target audience by using
computer graphics to create visually captivating content for marketing and advertising.
7. Product Design: Computer graphics make it possible to create 3D models, prototypes, and
visualizations in product design and development, which facilitates better design iterations and
testing.
8. Education and Training: Interactive training modules, simulations, and educational materials
are created using graphics to improve the effectiveness and engagement of learning.
3. List down and briefly explain about the application areas of computer graphics.
Computer graphics finds applications in various fields due to its versatility and ability to create
visually appealing and interactive content. Some of the key application areas of computer graphics
include:
1. Entertainment and Media:
Video games: Computer graphics are extensively used to create immersive and realistic game
environments, characters, and special effects.
Film and television: Visual effects (VFX), computer-generated imagery (CGI), and animation are
integral parts of modern film making and television production.
Digital art: Artists use computer graphics software to create digital paintings, illustrations, and
sculptures.
Architectural visualization: Computer graphics are used to create 3D models and renderings of
buildings, interiors, and landscapes for architectural design and planning.
Product design: Computer-aided design (CAD) software enables designers to create and visualize
products in 2D and 3D before manufacturing.
Industrial design: Computer graphics tools are used to prototype and visualize industrial products,
machinery, and equipment.
Fig: Design and Visualization
Simulations: Computer graphics simulations are used for training purposes in fields such as aviation,
medicine, military, and emergency response.
Educational software: Interactive educational software and multimedia presentations use computer
graphics to engage students and enhance learning.
Data visualization: Computer graphics techniques are used to visualize complex data sets in fields
such as astronomy, meteorology, biology, and geology.
Medical imaging: Computer graphics are used to visualize and analyze medical images such as X-
rays, CT scans, and MRI scans for diagnosis and treatment planning.
VR applications: Computer graphics are used to create immersive virtual environments for gaming,
training, simulations, and entertainment.
AR applications: Computer graphics overlay digital content onto the real-world environment,
enhancing experiences in fields such as education, retail, marketing, and navigation.
Graphical user interfaces (GUIs): Computer graphics enable the creation of intuitive and visually
appealing interfaces for software applications, websites, and mobile apps.
Human-computer interaction: Gesture recognition, touch interfaces, and other interactive
technologies rely on computer graphics to provide seamless user experiences.
4. What is the difference between the following display devices (monitors)? How each
device works?
Each display device (monitor) operates differently and has unique characteristics.
CRT monitors use a large vacuum tube with an electron gun to create images on a
phosphorescent screen.
The electron gun emits a beam of electrons that strike the phosphorescent coating on the screen,
causing it to glow and produce images.
CRT monitors are bulky and heavy compared to modern flat-panel displays.
They were widely used in the past but have become less common due to their size, weight, and
energy consumption.
Fig: Cathode Ray Tube
LCD monitors use a layer of liquid crystal material sandwiched between two transparent
electrodes to create images.
When an electric current is applied to the liquid crystal layer, it changes the orientation of the
crystals, controlling the passage of light through the display.
LCD monitors are thinner and lighter than CRT monitors and consume less power.
They offer sharp image quality and are commonly used in computer monitors, TVs, and portable
devices.
LED’s are used to provide the light source behind the liquid crystal display panel, resulting in
brighter, more energy-efficient displays.
LED monitors offer improved color accuracy, higher contrast ratios, and better energy efficiency
compared to traditional LCD monitors.
They are commonly used in modern flat-panel TVs, computer monitors, and digital signage
displays.
Plasma monitors use small cells containing electrically charged ionized gases (plasma) to create
images.
Each cell in the plasma panel is illuminated by UV light emitted by phosphors, causing them to
produce visible light.
Plasma displays offer excellent color reproduction, wide viewing angles, and high contrast ratios.
They were popular for large-screen TVs and displays but have become less common due to
competition from LCD and LED technology.
Fig: Plasma Display
5. Flat panel display could be classified as emissive and non-emissive. Discuss the
difference between the two and give examples for each
Flat panels can be classified as emissive and non-emissive based on how they produce light.
Emissive displays are devices that convert electrical energy into light energy to create visual output.
These displays generate light directly which means each pixel emits its own light. Emissive displays
directly generate light, making them self-illuminating.
Non-emissive displays use optical effects to create graphics patterns without directly emitting light.
These displays rely on external light sources and modulate that light to create images. Non-emissive
displays rely on external light sources or ambient light.
When we focus on their differences there are 4 things we could focus on:
1. Light Production:
Emissive Displays: Each pixel in emissive displays generates its own light when an electric current
passes through it. This allows for precise control over brightness and color at the pixel level.
Non-Emissive Displays: These displays do not produce light at the pixel level. Instead, they rely on
an external light source, such as a backlight (e.g. LED or CCFL) to illuminate the entire screen. The
light from the backlight passes through color filters and liquid crystal cells (in LCD displays) or
LEDs to create the image.
Emissive Displays: Emissive displays, particularly OLED and AMOLED, are known for their
excellent contrast ratios and deep black levels. Since each pixel emits its own light, it can be turned
off completely to achieve true black, resulting in richer and more lifelike images.
Non-Emissive Displays: Non-emissive displays, such as LCDs, may struggle to achieve the same
level of contrast and deep blacks as emissive displays. This is because the backlight is always on,
even when displaying black content, which can lead to some light leakage and reduced contrast.
3. Viewing Angles:
Emissive Displays: Emissive displays typically offer wider viewing angles compared to non-
emissive displays. Since each pixel emits its own light, the image quality remains consistent even
when viewed from different angles.
Non-Emissive Displays: Non-emissive displays, especially older LCDs, may experience color and
contrast shifts when viewed from off-center angles. This is due to limitations in the technology used
to control the liquid crystal cells and filter the backlight.
4. Power Efficiency:
Emissive Displays: Emissive displays can be more power-efficient in certain scenarios, especially
when displaying predominantly dark content. This is because OLED and AMOLED screens only
consume power for the pixels that are actively emitting light.
Non-Emissive Displays: Non-emissive displays, particularly older LCDs with CCFL backlights,
may consume more power since the backlight is always on, regardless of the content being displayed.
However, newer LED-backlit LCDs and other advancements have improved power efficiency in non-
emissive displays.
1) OLED: OLED displays are made up of organic compounds that emit light when an electric current is
passed through them. Each pixel in an OLED display generates its own light, allowing for deep
blacks, vibrant colors, and high contrast ratios. OLED displays are commonly found in smartphones,
TVs, and wearable devices.
2) AMOLED: AMOLED is a variation of OLED technology that uses an active matrix control scheme
to improve pixel response times and overall image quality. AMOLED displays are widely used in
high-end smartphones, tablets, and some TVs.
2) LED Display: LED displays utilize an array of LEDs as the backlight source. Similar to LCDs, the
light emitted by the LEDs passes through color filters and other layers to create images. LED
displays are often used in large outdoor displays, billboards, and indoor digital signage.
Deeper blacks
Disadvantages:
Shorter lifespans
Advantages:
Longer lifespans
Disadvantages:
6. Discuss about the RGB color model and the YIQ color model
6.1. RGB Color Model
RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, which are the primary colors used in this model.
In the RGB color model, colors are created by combining different intensities of red, green, and blue
light. Each color channel can have values ranging from 0 to 255, where 0 represents no intensity and
255 represents full intensity.
By varying the intensity of each primary color, a wide range of colors can be produced. For
example, mixing full intensity of red and green light produces yellow.It is an additive color
model, meaning that colors are created by adding different wavelengths of light together. When all
three primary colors are combined at full intensity, they produce white light.
RGB is commonly used in electronic displays, such as computer monitors, televisions, and digital
cameras.
Example: Let’s take the color purple. In the RGB color model, purple can be created by mixing red and
blue light. Here's how it works:
1. Set the intensity of the red channel to a high value (let's say 255).
2. Set the intensity of the blue channel to a high value as well (also 255).
4. By combining full intensity red and blue light, you'll create purple.
So, in RGB notation, the color purple could be represented as (255, 0, 255), where:
This combination of red and blue light produces the color purple on RGB displays like computer
monitors, TVs, and digital screens.
Additive Color Mixing: Allows for a wide range of colors to be produced by combining red, green,
and blue light.
Digital Representation: Matches well with digital displays and image processing, as it directly
corresponds to how light-emitting devices work.
Widely Used: RGB is the standard color model for electronic displays, digital cameras, and many
other digital imaging devices.
Limited Color Gamut: Cannot accurately represent all colors visible to the human eye, particularly
those outside the RGB triangle in the CIE chromaticity diagram.
Device Dependency: Colors can vary between different devices due to differences in calibration,
display technology, and viewing conditions.
Not Intuitive for Mixing Pigments: Mixing RGB colors does not correspond directly to how
pigments or inks mix, which can be confusing for those accustomed to traditional color mixing
methods.
YIQ is a color model used in analog television systems, particularly in national television system
committee broadcasts. It represents colors using three components: Y (luminance), I (in-phase), and
Q (quadrature).
The Y component represents the brightness or luminance of the color, ranging from black to white
the I and Q components represent the chrominance or color information. They are used to encode the
color information relative to the luminance.
Unlike RGB, which directly represents the colors of light, YIQ separates the luminance and
chrominance information, making it more suitable for broadcasting and transmission over analog
systems.
YIQ is based on the YUV color space, which is used in PAL (Phase Alternating Line) and SECAM
(Sequential Color with Memory) television systems.
1) Y (Luminance): The luminance component represents the brightness or intensity of the color. For
purple, the luminance component can be set to a value representing the overall brightness of the
color.
2) I (In-phase): The in-phase component represents the chrominance along the orange-blue axis. Since
purple has a reddish tint, the in-phase component can be set to a positive value.
3) Q (Quadrature): The quadrature component represents the chrominance along the green-purple
axis. Since purple leans towards the blue side, the quadrature component can be set to a negative
value.
Bandwidth Efficiency: YIQ separates luminance (brightness) information from chrominance (color)
information, which can lead to more efficient use of available bandwidth in broadcasting systems.
Color Encoding: YIQ encoding is optimized for human perception, with luminance (Y) carrying
most of the image detail and chrominance (I and Q) carrying color information. This can lead to good
color reproduction even with limited bandwidth.
Nonlinear Perception: The YIQ color space does not correspond directly to how humans perceive
color, leading to potential inaccuracies in color representation.
Compatibility Limitations: YIQ is primarily used in NTSC television systems, which are becoming
less common with the transition to digital broadcasting standards like ATSC. This limits its
applicability in modern digital systems.
Complexity: YIQ encoding and decoding require additional processing compared to simpler color
models like RGB, which can increase system complexity and cost.
Images in computers are represented and processed using pixels, which are the smallest units of
display on a screen. Each pixel contains information about its color and intensity. There are primarily
two types of images: Raster Images and Vector Images
1. Raster Images:
These images are represented as a grid of pixels. Common raster image formats include JPEG, PNG,
and BMP. Each pixel's color value determines its appearance in the image.
Representation: Raster images, also known as bitmap images, are composed of a grid of
individual pixels. Each pixel contains information about its color and intensity. When you zoom
in on a raster image, you can see the individual pixels that make up the image.
Common Formats: Raster images are commonly found in formats like JPEG (Joint
Photographic Experts Group), PNG (Portable Network Graphics), BMP (Bitmap), TIFF (Tagged
Image File Format), and GIF (Graphics Interchange Format).
Color Representation: In raster images, each pixel's color value is typically represented using
the RGB (Red, Green, Blue) color model or sometimes the CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow,
Black) model for printing purposes. The combination of these color values determines the overall
color and appearance of the image.
Resolution: Raster images have a fixed resolution, determined by the number of pixels
horizontally and vertically. Increasing the resolution increases the level of detail, but it also
increases the file size.
Scalability: Raster images are resolution-dependent, meaning they may lose quality when
scaled up, especially if scaled beyond their original resolution. Enlarging a raster image can
result in pixelation or blurriness as the individual pixels become more visible.
2. Vector Images:
Vector images are represented using mathematical formulas to define shapes, lines, and colors. This
allows them to be scaled without losing quality. Common vector image formats include SVG and
PDF.
Representation: Vector images are created using mathematical formulas to define shapes, lines,
curves, and colors. Instead of storing information about individual pixels, vector images store
geometric descriptions of objects and their attributes.
Common Formats: Vector images are commonly found in formats like SVG (Scalable Vector
Graphics), PDF (Portable Document Format), EPS (Encapsulated PostScript), and AI (Adobe
Illustrator).
Scalability: One of the significant advantages of vector images is their scalability. Since they are
based on mathematical descriptions rather than fixed pixels, vector images can be scaled to any
size without losing quality. This makes them ideal for logos, illustrations, diagrams, and other
graphics that need to be resized frequently.
Editing Flexibility: Vector images offer unparalleled editing flexibility. Shapes and colors can
be easily modified, resized, or rearranged without affecting image quality. Designers can
manipulate individual elements within a vector image, making it easier to create complex
illustrations or graphics.
File Size: Vector images tend to have smaller file sizes compared to raster images, especially for
images with simple geometric shapes. This makes vector graphics more suitable for web use and
printing, as they can result in faster loading times and reduced storage requirements.
Image processing involves manipulating images to enhance their quality, extract information, or
perform specific tasks. This can include operations like resizing, cropping, filtering, and more.
Translation:
Translation involves moving an object from one location to another in the coordinate space. It's akin
to shifting the object along the x, y, and z axes. In a 2D space, translation involves moving objects
horizontally and vertically. In 3D space, it includes movement along the x, y, and z axes. This
transformation is fundamental for animating objects across a scene or repositioning them relative to
other elements.
Rotation:
Rotation refers to changing the orientation of an object around a specified axis. In 2D graphics,
rotation typically occurs around a point (often the origin) by a certain angle. In 3D graphics, rotation
can occur around any axis passing through the object's center. Rotations can be clockwise or
counterclockwise and are specified by an angle of rotation. This transformation is essential for
animating objects to simulate turning, spinning, or orbiting motions.
Scaling:
Scaling involves resizing an object along one or more axes. It determines the object's size relative to
its original dimensions. Scaling factors can be uniform, where the object is uniformly resized along
all axes, or non-uniform, where different scaling factors are applied to different axes. Scaling up
enlarges the object, while scaling down reduces its size. This transformation is crucial for creating
visual depth, emphasizing details, or adjusting the size of objects dynamically.
Reflection:
Reflection involves flipping an object across a plane, such as a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal axis.
It creates a mirrored image of the original object. Reflections can be used to create symmetrical
patterns, simulate mirrors or water surfaces, or achieve artistic effects. Reflection transformations are
crucial for creating realistic scenes, especially when dealing with reflective surfaces or symmetrical
environments.
Shearing:
Shearing distorts the shape of an object by shifting its parts along one axis while keeping other parts
fixed. It's a linear transformation that skews the object in a specified direction. Shearing is often used
to create perspective effects, simulate deformation, or implement transformations such as stretching
or slanting. In 3D graphics, shearing can be applied along multiple axes to achieve complex
distortions.
A homogeneous matrix, also known as a 4x4 transformation matrix, is a powerful tool used to
represent and perform transformations in 3D space. It combines both translation and rotation into a
single matrix, simplifying calculations and manipulations.
Robotics: Homogeneous matrices are used to describe the position and orientation of robot joints
and end-effectors. This allows for precise control and manipulation of the robot.
Computer Vision: They are used to represent the camera pose (position and orientation) in
relation to the scene. This information is essential for tasks like object recognition and tracking .
Increased Computational Cost: Homogeneous matrices are 4x4 matrices, requiring more
calculations compared to 3x3 matrices used for pure rotations. This can be a concern for
computationally intensive applications.
Potential for Singularities: Homogeneous matrices can become singular (non-invertible) under
certain conditions, such as when the scale factor is zero. This can lead to numerical instability and
errors in calculations.
Complexity for Beginners: The concept of homogeneous coordinates and the structure of the
matrix can be challenging for beginners to grasp, requiring a deeper understanding of linear
algebra.
A. Animation
Definition: Animation is the process of creating the illusion of movement by displaying a sequence of
images or frames that change over time.
Advantages:
Bring static images to life: Animation allows us to create dynamic and engaging content that
captures attention and conveys information effectively.
Tell stories and express emotions: Animation offers a powerful medium for storytelling and
conveying emotions that can be difficult to achieve with static images or text.
Create immersive experiences: Animation can be used to create immersive experiences, such as
in video games, virtual reality, and augmented reality.
Application areas:
Entertainment: Animation is widely used in movies, television shows, video games, and other
forms of entertainment.
Marketing and advertising: Animated videos are effective tools for capturing attention and
promoting products or services.
Scientific visualization: Animation is used to visualize complex scientific data and processes.
Disadvantages:
B. Simulation
Definition: Simulation is the process of creating a virtual representation of a real-world system or process
to study its behavior and performance.
Advantages:
Reduced risk and cost: Simulations allow us to test and experiment with different scenarios
without the risks or costs associated with real-world experiments.
Improved decision-making: Simulations provide valuable insights into the behavior of complex
systems, aiding in better decision-making.
Application areas:
Engineering: Simulations are used to design and test products, processes, and systems in various
engineering disciplines.
Science: Simulations are used to study complex scientific phenomena, such as climate change,
weather patterns, and biological processes.
Training and education: Simulations are used to train individuals in various fields, such as
pilots, surgeons, and military personnel.
Disadvantages:
Complexity and cost: Developing complex simulations can be challenging and expensive,
requiring specialized expertise and software.
Accuracy limitations: Simulations are models of reality and may not always accurately reflect
real-world behavior.
C. Image Processing
Definition: Image processing is the process of manipulating and analyzing digital images to enhance
their quality or extract useful information.
Advantages:
Improved image quality: Image processing techniques can enhance image clarity, contrast, and
color, making them more visually appealing and informative.
Automated analysis: Image processing algorithms can automate tasks such as object detection,
image segmentation, and feature extraction.
Medical diagnosis: Image processing plays a crucial role in medical diagnosis, allowing doctors
to analyze medical images like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
Application areas:
Medical imaging: Image processing is essential for medical diagnosis, treatment planning, and
research.
Remote sensing: Image processing is used to analyze satellite and aerial images for applications
such as land-use mapping, environmental monitoring, and disaster response.
Computer vision: Image processing is the foundation of computer vision, enabling machines to
"see" and understand the world around them.
Disadvantages:
Privacy concerns: Image processing techniques can raise privacy concerns, especially when used
for facial recognition or surveillance.
Potential for misuse: Image processing can be misused to manipulate or fabricate images,
leading to misinformation or fraud.
Definition: Virtual reality (VR) is an immersive technology that creates a simulated environment that
users can interact with using specialized headsets and controllers.
Advantages:
Immersive experiences: VR provides highly immersive experiences, allowing users to feel
present and engaged in the virtual world.
Training and education: VR can be used for training and education, providing realistic
simulations of real-world scenarios.
Application areas:
Gaming and entertainment: VR is transforming the gaming industry, providing immersive and
interactive experiences.
Training and education: VR is used for training in various fields, such as medicine, engineering,
and military.
Architecture and design: VR allows architects and designers to visualize and interact with their
designs in a virtual environment.
Disadvantages:
Cost and accessibility: VR headsets and equipment can be expensive, limiting accessibility for
some users.
Motion sickness and health concerns: Some users experience motion sickness or other health
issues when using VR.
Limited content and applications: The availability of VR content and applications is still
developing compared to traditional media.
E. Rasterization
Definition: Rasterization is the process of converting 2D or 3D vector graphics into a raster image
(bitmap) composed of pixels.
Advantages:
Widely supported: Raster images are widely supported by various devices and software,
ensuring compatibility.
Efficient rendering: Rasterization is a relatively efficient process, making it suitable for real-time
graphics applications.
High-quality visuals: Rasterization can produce high-quality visuals with realistic textures and
lighting effects.
Application areas:
Computer graphics: Rasterization is the foundation of computer graphics, used in video games,
3D modeling software, and other applications.
Image editing and manipulation: Raster images are commonly used in image editing and
manipulation software.
Printing and publishing: Raster images are used for printing and publishing documents,
photographs, and other visuals.
Disadvantages:
Loss of quality when scaled: Raster images lose quality when scaled up or down, making them
less suitable for applications requiring high-resolution images.
Large file sizes: Raster images can have large file sizes, especially for high-resolution images.
Limited editing capabilities: Raster images have limited editing capabilities compared to vector
graphics.