Rethinking graphics and gaming courses because of fast ray tracing

Abstract

Figure 1: Ray tracing can robustly and naturally support next generation visual effects not easily combined with GPU graphics including depth-of-field, motion blur, glossy and specular reflection, soft shadows, and correct refraction. More details on the system that generated of these images are available in Boulos et al. (2006). AbstractAlmost all current games are implemented using the graphics processing units (GPUs) found on almost every PC. These GPUs use the z-buffer algorithm to do visibility calculations. Ray tracing, an alternative to the z-buffer algorithm, delivers higher visual quality than the z-buffer algorithm but has historically been too slow for interactive use. However, ray tracing has benefitted from improvements in computer hardware, and many believe it will replace the z-buffer algorithm as the visibility engine in games. If that replacement happens, it will imply fundamental changes in both the API to and capabilities of 3D graphics engines. This paper discusses the implications for games and graphics oriented classes should this switch to ray tracing occur.

Toward a Singleton Undergraduate Computer Graphics Course in Small and Medium-sized Colleges

“…However some work has been done to use ray tracing as a teaching tool in such courses [Hu 2010]. Shirley et al [2007] discuss the how CG courses in the future may adapt to advances in interactive ray tracing, a topic we briefly allude to when talking in class about advances in and other applications of ray casting.…”

Ray Tracing For Undergraduates

“…With the introduction of interactive ray tracing, computer graphics courses must evolve to reflect the current trends in computer graphics research. Shirley et al 6 have identified several areas in the design of computer graphics courses on which interactive ray tracing will likely have an impact:…”