Computer Graphics for Java Programmers (Paperback)

~ Leen Ammeraal (Author) "which we want to paint in red and yellow, respectively, without drawing any lines. Strangely enough, it is not clear how this can be done;..." (more)
Key Phrases: isotropic mapping mode, output polygon, convex vertex, Viewpoint Down (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review

"I would recommend Computer Graphics for Java Programmers." --Computer Graphics Forum, March 2000

Product Description

Many great visual effects can be achieved in computer graphics for which a fundamental understanding of the underlying mathematical concepts — and a knowledge of how they can be implemented in a particular programming language — is essential. Computer Graphics for Java Programmers is a good place to start for those with a little experience of Java who wish to create and manipulate 2D and 3D graphical objects. Two-dimensional subjects discussed include logical coordinates, triangulation of polygons and both Bézier and B-spline curve fitting. There is also a chapter about transformations, culminating in a useful Java class for 3D rotations about an arbitrary axis. The perspective representation of 3D solid objects is discussed in detail, including efficient algorithms for hidden-face and hidden-line elimination. These and many other algorithms are accompanied by complete, ready-to-run Java programs which can be downloaded from the accompanying website. "Frank Gehry has used computer graphics on several buildings, most notably the new Guggenheim Museum at Bilbao, to create new visual languages and control the design and the cost of production. Starting design with sketches and models, he then used computer graphics to translate the curved fractal forms into exact dimensions which can be used by contractors. This means wastage of steel and stone can be kept to a minimum and the new, curved architecture can be almost the same cost as a repetitive, right angled building. Furthermore, visual refinements and sculptural qualities are reproduced with the fidelity that Gehry seeks. The computer is beginning to show its potential for facilitating creative architecture at the highest level." Charles Jencks, Writer

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Product Details

• Paperback: 282 pages
• Publisher: Wiley (April 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0471981427
• ISBN-13: 978-0471981428
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.4 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,400,418 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars General content well explained, January 10, 2000

By A Customer

The general fundamental concepts of graphics programming in 2D and 3D are covered and well explained. It covers mapping modes, primitive shape drawing algorithms, projecting from 2D to a 3D plane, using matrices to transform objects, hidden face/surface and hidden line elimination, handling polygons. It uses Java to implement the concepts discussed. Fortunately the book doesn't overlook the maths content of graphics programming. A course in linear algebra would be beneficial prior to reading this book. A course in Java is not necessary because the book is written in such a way as to convey an understanding of the general concepts so that you can use any language to solve the problems. The book is also written concisely. Words aren't wasted by the author telling you his life story like some other programming books I've read. Importantly, the book contains excercises at the end of each chapter as well as solutions to them.

If you're interested in rip and paste Java coding then you can use this book. If you're interested in understanding computer graphics then you can, fortunately, also use this book.

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An incredible introduction to graphics using Java, November 23, 1999

By A Customer

I first got hold of this book for a day in the library. I was upset that it appeared somewhat out-of-date and did not cover the Java3D API.

I was very wrong. Although Pre-Java3D API, Computer Graphics in Java does an extraordinary job of explaining 3D concepts and would serve as THE BEST textual reference possible in a college level graphics programming class.

Clear examples with lots of code.

When you learn the principles of 3D graphics using this book, purchase Pure JFC Swing ($15.99 SAMS, also lots of examples and clear code) and download the Java3D tutorial in PDF format from SUN's website (FREE). You will be ready to tackle Java3D with renewed vigor.

13 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Decent writing, painful pricing, August 21, 2001

By	Simeon H. K. Fitch "metasim" (Charlottesville, VA USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Although providing nice code examples and clearly explaining the mathemantics of standard computer graphics algorithms, its ~270 (paperback) pages do not cover the scope or detail of the ~1100 (hardcover) pages in "Computer Graphics" by Foley, van Damm, et al., which costs roughly the same amount. John Wiley & Sons needs to be brought to task on the pricing issue, as the high price really shadows the real value (and business opportinity) of the book. My conspiracy theory is that the publisher is aiming to market it as a text book where students can't counter being ripped off by a publisher endorced by a professor or university.