SWE 423: Multimedia Systems

Chapter 4: Graphics and Images

Computer Graphics
Vector Graphics
Bitmap Images
Combining vectors and
bitmaps

Models of Bitmapped Graphics

modeled by an array of pixel values
Bitmapped graphics does not use bitmaps
(except for pure monochrome images) it use
pixel maps

Models of Vector Graphics

stored as a mathematical description of a
collection of individual lines, curves and
shapes making up the image
e.g. line = two end points

Displaying a vector image

requires some computation to be performed in
order to interpret the model and generate an
array of pixel to be displayed
The process of interpreting the vector
description known as rasterizing

Vector Graphics

Scalable
Resolution independent
No background
Cartoon-like
Inappropriate for photo-realistic images
Metafiles contain both raster and vector
data

 Vector Graphics
Points can be identified by coordinates
Lines and shapes can be described by equations
Approximating abstract shapes on a grid of finite
pixels leads to `jaggies

Anti-aliasing can offset this effect

Bezier curves are drawn using four control points
Bezier curves can be made to join together
smoothly into paths
Paths and shapes can be stroked and filled

 Vector Graphics
Geometrical transformations
translation, scaling, rotation, reflection and shearing - can be
applied easily to vector shapes

Three approaches to 3-D modeling

constructive solid geometry
free-form modeling
procedural modeling

3-D rendering models the effect of light and texture, as

well as displaying the modeled objects in space
Ray tracing and radiosity are computationally
expensive rendering algorithms that can produce photorealistic results

Vector Graphics Tools

Adobe Illustrator
CorelDraw
Macromedia FreeHand
XARA X
Most can export
your work to
bitmap images

Metafile Format

Used for vector graphics

Can embed bitmap images
Collection of Graphics Device Interface (GDI) functions
Rasterization process
Default extension .WMF
Less space
Structure
header
size of the file
# of drawing objects

list of records

Other Common Vector File

Formats
CGM
Computer Graphics Meta File

DRW
Micrographics Designer file format

CDR
CorelDRAW native format

HPGL
HP plotter print format

DXF
Drawing Exchange Files
created by Autodesk for AutoCAD

 Other Common Vector File

Formats
EPS
Encapsulated PostScript Files
developed by Adobe Systems for compatibility
with PostScript lang
device independent
may contain a TIFF or WMF image for screen
presentation

AI
Illustrator native format

3-D Graphics
2D: define shapes by paths
3D: define objects by surfaces
Hierarchical modeling
A bicycle consists of a frame, two wheels,

Rendering
In 3D, we have a mathematical model of objects
in space, but we need a flat picture

Viewpoint
Position of camera
Scaling with distance
Lighting: position, intensity, type
Interaction of light: underwater, smoke-filled room

Texture

 Rendering
Wire frame
Hidden surface
removal
Surface properties
Color and reflectivity

Lights
Shading
A color for each
polygon
Interpolate color