Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2009 - 2010
This information is provisional and subject to change.

Module Title	Computer Graphics
Module Code	CA417
School	Computing
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Dr David Sinclair	Office Number	L2.53
Level	4	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None

Module Aims

This module aims to give the student a thorough grounding in the underlying concepts of computer image synthesis.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, the student will be able to

Understand and analyse the computer graphics pipeline
Understand the operation of a 3D computer graphics API
Build an application using a 3D computer graphics API
Design a basic 3D computer graphics PI

Indicative Time Allowances
	Hours
Lectures	24
Tutorials
Laboratories
Seminars
Independent Learning Time	51

Total	75
Placements
Assignments	12

NOTE

Assume that a 5 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus

Introduction to the computer graphics pipeline.
3D computer graphics APIs and Java3D
Transformations
Projections
Visible Surface Determination
Drawing algorithms for graphics primitives
Anti-aliasing
Colour models
Advanced rendering techniques for high realism (ray tracing, radiosity).

Assessment
Continuous Assessment	25%	Examination Weight	75%

Indicative Reading List

Computer Graphics: Principals and Practice. Foley J., Van Dam A., Feiner S. and Hughes J. Addison-Wesley, 1997.

The Essence of Computer Graphics. Cooley P. Prentice-Hall, 2001

Contribution to Programme:

The module’s contribution to the IEI Programme Areas and Programme Outcomes is characterised according to a five point scale where 4 indicates a very strong contribution and 0 indicates no significant or intended contribution.

Science & Mathematics

Discipline - specific Technology

Information and Communications Technology

Design and Development

Engineering Practice

Social and Business Context

3

4

4

3

2

0

Knowledge and Its Application:
The ability to derive and apply solutions from a knowledge of sciences, engineering sciences, technology and mathematics

Problem Solving:
The ability to identify, formulate, analyse and solve engineering problems;

Design:
The ability to design a system, component or process to meet specified needs, to design and conduct experiments and to analyse and interpret data;

Ethical Practice:
An understanding of the need for high ethical standards in the practice of engineering, including the responsibilities of the engineering profession towards people and the environment

Effective Work and Learning:
The ability to work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary settings together with the capacity to undertake lifelong learning;

Effective Communication:
The ability to communicate effectively with the engineering community and with society at large

4

3

3

0

1

1

Teaching & Learning Strategies/Pedagogical Approach:
The students will be given an overview of the computer graphics pipeline by examining a 3D computer graphics API. Then the concepts that enable the pipeline will be examined individually. The 3D computer graphics API will be used to place each concept in the context of the computer graphics pipeline.

Assessment:
There will be two individual assignments. The first assignment will familiarise the student with a 3D computer graphics API. The second assignment will allow them to investigate advanced features of the 3D computer graphics API.

Programme or List of Programmes

BSSA

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

BSSAO

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

ECSA

Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)

ECSAO

Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)

HMSA

Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)

HMSAO