Computer graphics are the technologies that enable computers to display and manipulate images. They’re used in a wide range of contexts, from art and video games to television and filmmaking.
The 1980s marked the dawn of computer graphics, as millions of videogame systems and PCs made them affordable to a new audience. At this time, CGI-heavy video games began appearing on the market and computer-generated imagery became commonplace in TV commercials.
Visualization
Visualization is the ability to conjure up a vivid image in your mind. It has many beneficial effects, such as relieving stress, improving focus and productivity, and even realizing dreams.
Visualization is an empowering mental practice that thousands of people around the world have used to find success in their lives. Through regular visualization, you can focus on what you desire and create the life of your dreams.
This practice can also reduce anxiety and lower stress levels, which is beneficial when facing an overwhelming situation. For instance, if you’re having trouble preparing for an interview or difficult conversation, visualization can help put your brain in the right mindset to tackle the task at hand.
Visualization can be a powerful tool, but there are some things to consider before beginning the process. One of these is having an accurate idea of what you want to visualize and why.
Computer-generated imagery (CGI)
Computer-generated imagery (CGI) is a vast field that encompasses everything from photographs and graphics to 3D modeling and animation. It may also be employed for nontraditional uses like scientific visualization or computer-aided design and manufacturing. CGI technology often produces stunning pictures; such as those featured in recent films like Toy Story or A Bug’s Life.
Computer graphics is composed of several subfields, such as rendering and compositing, ray tracing, lighting, modeling, and texturing. The best CGI is a blend of all these disciplines – and more. Examples of modern user interfaces for consumer and business software programs often showcase stunningly complex graphical user interfaces directly from within the program without needing external printers. Some high-end computer graphics packages even allow printing images directly from within the software without additional equipment needed.
Computer-aided design (CAD)
Computer-aided design (CAD) is a system of software that enables designers to generate digital models and drawings of products. These programs enable them to explore multiple ideas quickly and efficiently, ultimately leading to accurate product prototypes.
Computer Aided Design (CAD) was initially created as a tool for design engineers to replace drawing boards and manual drafting. Ivan Sutherland created the first CAD program in 1963 called Sketchpad, which allowed users to draw directly on a computer screen using a light pen.
Today, CAD technology is used widely across various industries and plays an integral role in design and manufacturing processes. It helps manufacturers reduce errors and simplify project execution, enabling them to attain precise dimensions with greater speed to market.
CAD systems typically depict geometrical data as 3D computer models that can be altered by altering relevant parameters. Furthermore, most CAD applications offer advanced rendering and animation features to help designers better visualize their creations.
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is the use of software and computer-controlled machinery to automate a manufacturing process. It evolved from numerically controlled machines in the 1950s, which were programmed with coded instructions on punched paper tape.
Software instructs industrial machinery how to manufacture a product by creating tool paths. Once these are created, industrial machinery can transform raw materials into finished goods – completing the cycle and producing your desired item.
Post-processing transforms toolpaths into a language the machinery can understand, enabling full automation in the manufacturing process – one program controlling multiple machines.
CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) is an essential step in the engineering process, as it allows designers to create geometrically-shaped designs for physical objects like car crankshafts, faucet inner skeletons and circuit boards.
