Computergraphik

Computergraphik, or computer graphics, is the field that studies the generation, manipulation, and presentation of visual information by computer systems. It covers the creation of static images, motion pictures, and interactive graphics across areas such as entertainment, design, engineering, and science. The discipline integrates mathematics, algorithms, and artistic practice to model scenes, simulate lighting, and render images from digital representations.

Historically, computergraphik began with simple line and vector drawings and advanced through raster graphics, shading, and 3D rendering. The advent of graphics processing units (GPUs) enabled significant gains in performance, enabling real-time rendering for games and interactive applications. In recent decades, physically based rendering and real-time ray tracing have increased realism, while modern pipelines emphasize efficient, scalable workflows for complex scenes.

Core techniques include 3D modeling, texturing, shading, lighting, animation, and rendering. Rendering methodologies span rasterization, ray tracing, and hybrid approaches that combine strengths of different methods. Scene data is typically managed with scene graphs or description languages and processed via graphics APIs. Common file formats for interchange and assets include OBJ, FBX, and glTF.

Applications of computergraphik are widespread, ranging from video games and film VFX to virtual and augmented reality, computer-aided design and engineering, architectural visualization, and medical or scientific visualization. The field continues to evolve with advances in real-time rendering, artificial intelligence-assisted content creation, and increasingly immersive and interactive visual experiences.