As we know computer graphics involves the generation, representation, manipulation, processing and evaluation of graphic images by a computer. Moreover, it combines graphic images with related nongraphic information residing in the computer files. Graphic objects may be photographic images or they may be created with the aid of a computer in the form of alphanumeric character, special symbols, line drawings or gray shaded areas.
We will learn here how new developments in the field of graphics in computers are changing the way we see the world of arts. The technique of 3D(Three Dimensional) rendering is responsible for this change.
What is 3D Graphics
The display screen or the paper in the dimensional rendering cannot display three-dimensional objects but only their projections. 2D graphics are just line drawings whereas a 3D–rendering involves modeling an object with the help of computers down to the details of lighting, shading and reflections so that it will look realistic.
Thus, the process of creating three-dimensional models within a computer’s memory such as setting lights and applying textures is called 3D Graphics. After you tell a computer about the angle from which you want to view the 3-D scene, it will generate an image that simulates the conditions you have defined for the scene.
3D–rendering involves modeling an object (using a mesh called a wire frame to represent the object) and then covering it with a smooth material having the right kind of optical properties to make it look real. The modeling is usually done entirely on a computer. Rendering the model to produce a real life appearance can be done in several ways. No scene, be it 3D–rendered or real, is perfectly shot the first time yet touching it up on a computer can work wonders. We all watch advertisements on the television. The famous Kawasaki Bajaj motor bike advertisement, the 3D animated logos for the samachar, the World this week, Newstrack are all examples of wonderful work of computer graphics.
Desk Top Publishing (DTP)
While computers have invaded various industries through the latest technology and software, they have entered the printing industry through a process called DTP. DTP has made printing procedure faster, more efficient and accurate. The traditional method of printing involves phototypesetting the text, cutting and pasting the typed text by the artist, where the artist has to draw lines and boxes manually to create a ready to use artwork.
The method of DTP involves,
- (i) typing the text on the computer keyboard,
- (ii) setting it in the page form with the help of DTP software,
- (iii) giving different fonts to Headings, captions, etc. by simple commands, and
- (iv) taking the final printout on a laser printer.
Ventura, PageMaker, CorelDraw are some of the software using which very high class text setting, graphics designs and simple line drawings can be created faster and more accurately
Computer and Medical Science
Computers have proved to be very useful in the field of medical science. In hospitals, computers are used for monitoring patients, raising the alarm if the pulse rate falls below a certain level, maintaining medical records, record of patient's treatment, laboratory test, billing, etc. Computer controlled electronic scanners can build up a picture of a patient slice by slice, measuring the strength of the rays which have been sent through the body. A computer uses this information to show a cross section of the body revealing any abnormalities which cannot be seen from outside. Computers also help a doctor to perform difficult surgical procedures.
Space Research
INSAT IIB and all the satellites and spacecraft could not have taken their flight but for the valuable assistance provided to the scientists by computers. Spacecrafts are monitored with the help of computers, which not only keep the continuous analog records of the voyage and the digital records of the speed direction, fuel, temperature, but also suggests corrective measures which are to be taken in case of some error. The picture shows an American Space shuttle lifting off. The space shuttle was totally designed using computers. Thus the computers have arrived in a big way and have become essential for our life.