Overview
This lecture traces the evolution of computing and graphics technology, highlighting key innovations, influential people, and the growth of digital tools from mechanical looms to modern 3D modeling and visual effects.
Early History of Computing
- Before the 1950s, a "computer" was a person who performed calculations.
- The Jacquard loom (early 1800s) automated fabric patterns using punched cards, sparking early debates on automation.
- "Sabotage" comes from French workers destroying machines (throwing "sabots" or wooden shoes).
- Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace developed the analytical engine, with Lovelace considered the first computer programmer.
From Tabulating Machines to Electronic Computers
- Herman Hollerith invented an electromechanical tabulating machine for the 1890 U.S. Census, leading to IBM’s founding.
- World War II accelerated computer development; Alan Turing at Bletchley Park broke Nazi codes and conceptualized artificial intelligence.
- Massive wartime computers like ENIAC and UNIVAC automated complex calculations; early programming was done mostly by women.
- The invention of the transistor at Bell Labs in 1947 replaced vacuum tubes and made computers smaller and more reliable.
Birth of Computer Graphics & Interfaces
- Early graphics technology included oscilloscopes and cathode ray tube (CRT) screens.
- Ivan Sutherland’s Sketchpad (1963) was the first graphical user interface, allowing intuitive drawing with a light pen.
- Pierre Bézier developed curves (Bezier curves) essential for CAD and graphic design.
- Airline reservations (Sabre system) became one of the first major business computer applications.
Home Computers & the Graphical Revolution
- Arcade games like Pong (1972) and home consoles (Atari 2600) introduced computers to the public.
- Apple’s Macintosh (1984) popularized the mouse and icon-based graphical user interface.
- MacPaint and MacDraw distinguished between pixel-based and vector-based graphics, influencing modern design software like Photoshop and Illustrator.
Computer Graphics in Media and Games
- Early computer graphics used wireframes, hidden line removal, and polygon shading.
- Ed Catmull developed foundational 3D graphics algorithms; the Utah teapot became a standard test object.
- 1980s/90s: CGI began appearing in films (e.g., Star Wars, Young Sherlock Holmes, Jurassic Park).
- Motion capture and character animation advanced with actors like Andy Serkis (Gollum in LOTR).
- The "uncanny valley" phenomenon describes discomfort with almost-realistic CGI humans.
3D Modeling, Rendering & Modern Tools
- Rendering techniques include wireframe, hidden line, shaded polygon, and photorealistic texturing.
- Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) handle complex visual calculations.
- Major leaps in storage and memory (from floppy disks to terabyte drives) enabled richer graphics.
- Free and commercial software (e.g., Blender, AutoCAD, Vectorworks) democratized 3D design and animation.
Gaming & Real-Time Engines
- Early 3D games used simple graphics; titles like Ultima Underworld and Myst pushed visual boundaries.
- CD-ROMs enabled high-quality graphics and larger game worlds.
- Unreal Engine, Unity, and others now allow real-time rendering and cinematic-quality environments.
Digital Tools in Architecture and Design
- Building Information Management (BIM) helps track and simulate all aspects of construction projects.
- 3D modeling, rendering, and CAD enable pre-visualization and automation in entertainment, engineering, and design.
- 3D printing and CNC tools turn digital models into real objects with free or low-cost software.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Jacquard Loom — Early programmable loom using punched cards for patterns.
- Analytical Engine — Babbage’s proposed general-purpose calculating machine.
- Transistor — Electrically controlled switch replacing vacuum tubes, enabling smaller computers.
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design) — Software for precise technical drawing and modeling.
- Bezier Curve — A mathematical curve used in graphic design and CAD software.
- Wireframe — 3D model composed only of lines showing edges.
- GPU — Graphics Processing Unit; a processor specialized for visual calculations.
- Uncanny Valley — The unsettling feeling caused by lifelike but not-quite-real CGI humans.
- Raster Graphics — Images made from pixels (dots), as opposed to vector graphics.
- Vector Graphics — Images defined by mathematical equations, scalable without loss of quality.
- BIM (Building Information Management) — Digital process for managing construction project data and simulation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review differences between vector and raster graphics.
- Explore free 3D modeling software such as Blender.
- Familiarize yourself with basic terms (Bezier curve, wireframe, GPU).
- Optional: Research pioneers mentioned (Babbage, Lovelace, Turing, Sutherland, Catmull).