Computer Graphics: Rendering

Offered by UCSanDiegoX

Course Description

Dive into the fascinating world of computer graphics rendering with this comprehensive course offered by UCSanDiegoX. "Computer Graphics: Rendering" is an introductory-level course that builds upon the foundations of computer graphics to explore the intricacies of high-quality, physically-based rendering techniques. This course is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to create stunningly realistic computer-generated images of 3D scenes using advanced techniques such as ray tracing and path tracing.

What You Will Learn

  • The fundamentals of computer graphics rendering
  • Techniques for creating highly realistic computer-generated images
  • Ray tracing and path tracing methodologies
  • Implementation of physically-based rendering
  • Development of a state-of-the-art path tracer with multiple importance sampling

Prerequisites

While the course is listed as introductory level, it is recommended that students have a basic understanding of computer graphics concepts. Familiarity with CSE 167: Foundations of Computer Graphics would be beneficial, as this course builds upon those principles.

Course Content

  • Introduction to computer graphics rendering
  • Ray tracing techniques and implementation
  • Direct lighting calculations and methods
  • Path tracing algorithms and applications
  • Importance sampling for optimized rendering
  • Physically-based rendering principles
  • Development of a sophisticated path tracer
  • Multiple importance sampling techniques

Who This Course Is For

  • Computer science students interested in graphics and visualization
  • Game developers looking to enhance their rendering skills
  • Aspiring visual effects artists for movies and animation
  • Software engineers working on CAD or virtual simulation programs
  • Anyone passionate about creating realistic digital imagery

Real-World Applications

  • Video game development: Create more realistic and immersive gaming environments
  • Film and animation: Produce high-quality visual effects and computer-generated imagery
  • Virtual reality and augmented reality: Design lifelike virtual experiences
  • Architectural visualization: Generate photorealistic renderings of buildings and interiors
  • Product design: Create accurate 3D models and prototypes
  • Scientific visualization: Render complex scientific data in a visually comprehensible manner
  • Medical imaging: Enhance medical imaging techniques for improved diagnosis and treatment planning

Syllabus

The course is structured around four main projects, each contributing 25% to the final grade:

  1. Homework 1: Raytracing
  2. Homework 2: Direct Lighting
  3. Homework 3: Path Tracing
  4. Homework 4: Importance Sampling

A passing score for the course is 60%. Each project will provide hands-on experience in implementing the rendering techniques covered in the lectures, culminating in the development of a sophisticated path tracer with multiple importance sampling.

Conclusion

By enrolling in this course, you'll gain invaluable skills in computer graphics rendering that are highly sought after in today's digital landscape. Whether you're aiming to create the next blockbuster game, design cutting-edge visual effects for films, or innovate in fields like virtual reality or scientific visualization, this course will provide you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to bring your creative visions to life with stunning realism.