Summary

This class will teach you about the basic principles of 3D computer graphics: meshes, transforms, cameras, materials, lighting, and animation.

Expected Learning

By the end of this class you will know enough to make an animated 3D demo program that runs in a web browser, while also understanding the basic principles of how realistic computer images are generated.

You will also have a portfolio of small interactive programs that run in any web browser that supports WebGL.

Syllabus

Lesson 1: Introduction

Motivation and a trip down the graphics pipeline, laying out the fundamental processes

Lesson 2: Points, Vectors, and Meshes

The basics of 3D geometry definition

Lesson 3: Colors and Materials

Color representation, material computations, transparency

Lesson 4: Transforms

Translation, scale, rotate and how to properly combine all these

Lesson 5: Matrices

Transform representation and how to fully control these

Lesson 6: Lights

Directional and point light sources

Lesson 7: Cameras

How the camera is defined

Lesson 8: Textures and Reflections

Color and opacity textures, along with reflection and normal mapping

Lesson 9: Shader Programming

An introduction to programming vertex and pixel shaders

Lesson 10: Interaction and Animation

How to select and make objects move

Required Knowledge

Knowing how to program in some language is all you’ll need to get started. Some knowledge of JavaScript is useful later on if you wish to make your projects more interactive and engaging. Familiarity with vectors and matrices will ease your way but is not critical.

To be able to see the interactive demos and do programming assignments you need a browser that supports WebGL technology. An up to date version of Chrome or Firefox will work (see our FAQ for more information). You can test if your browser supports this technology by visiting the WebGL project homepage.

Almost all programming will be done in JavaScript using three.js library/API.

About Autodesk

This course is developed in conjunction with Autodesk, a worldwide leader in 3D design, engineering, and entertainment software. http://www.autodesk.com