The Mathematics of Two-Dimensional Graphics

Abstract

A major goal in computer graphics is to create pictorial displays out of mathematical descriptions of images. This requires the creation (usually by the host computer) of a display file that is then sent to the graphic device. In vector graphics where the device expects commands such as “draw vector,” the contents of the display file are for the most part primitive instructions. In raster graphics, instructions such as “draw vector” are not primitive and they are translated by the device into pixel configurations in the refresh memory. Strictly speaking, most raster graphics devices do not have a display file. However, it is useful to think in terms of such a file, regardless of how the display device handles it. The creation of a display file is trivial for very simple displays but becomes quite challenging as the complexity of the desired display increases.