Fast Algorithms for 3D-Graphics

The aim of this book is to provide a mathematical background to techniques in computer graphics, to develop a graphics program in C implementing these techniques, and to illustrate the use of C stressing portability and speed. It hopes to supply the reader with a complete graphics program capable of rendering three-dimensional images comparatively quickly, including shadows and - to a limited degree - reflections. Scenes can be animated interactively or by using animation files, and series of scenes may be stored and played in real time. Readers are assumed to be moderately familiar with basic programming concepts, although all programming techniques are described thoroughly before their first applications. Whilst ray-tracing is not covered, the book does cover: hidden surfaces, shadows, reflections, patterns, and modelling curves and surfaces. As a result, many students and professionals will find this presentation gives them a thorough understanding of the most fundamental algorithms in graphics programming as well as providing them with a usable graphics package.