Description
Introduction to the techniques and underpinning mathematics for developing games and real-time graphics applications with a moderm API.
Aims
The aim of this module is to provide the student with: the ability to design, develop and critically evaluate interactive 3D graphical scences based on an understanding of the mathematics.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module the student should be able to:
1. Use and critically evaluate appropriate software developments tools to create a 3D computer game/graphics applications.
2. Solve rendering and simulation problems relevant to computer games using appropriate mathematics and API functions.
3. Design, implement and critically evaluate a 3D application which uses the programmable pipeline demonstrating efficient use of API features and mathematical constructs.
Indicative Content
1 Application Development:
The game loop, C++ and Windows programming model within a graphics application framework.
2 Graphics Concepts:
Review and evaluation of game engines, graphics API’s coordinate systems and the programmable pipeline.
3 Buffers
Overview of buffers and resources within the context of the programmable pipeline.
4 Lighting
Overview of lighting and shading methods within real-time computer graphics.
5 Texturing
Overview and evaluation of texturing techniques within the context of the programmable pipeline.
6 3D Models
Overview and evaluation of models, model formats and processes needed to load 3D assets into module framework.
7 Render to texture
Overview and evaluation of Render to texture as an indispensable component of the programmable pipeline for advanced graphics techniques.
8 Revision of Vectors and Matrices
Revision of Vectors and Matrices.
9 3D Geometry
Lines, planes, angles and intersections. Parametric curves, normal and tangent plances to Cartesian and parametric surfaces.
10 Matrix Transformations
Homogeneous coordinates, 2D and 3D transformation, projection.
Teaching and Learning Work Loads
| Teaching and Learning Method | Hours |
| Lecture | 12 |
| Tutorial/Seminar | 24 |
| Practical Activity | 24 |
| Assessment | 60 |
| Independent | 80 |
| Total | 200 |
Guidance notes
SCQF Level - The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.
Credit Value – The total value of SCQF credits for the module. 20 credits are the equivalent of 10 ECTS credits. A full-time student should normally register for 60 SCQF credits per semester.
Disclaimer
We make every effort to ensure that the information on our website is accurate but it is possible that some changes may occur prior to the academic year of entry. The modules listed in this catalogue are offered subject to availability during academic year 2021/22 , and may be subject to change for future years.
