   This unit provides students with an introduction to the production aspects of computer visualisation and animation. The unit consists of three themes: The Modelling, Animation and Rendering Techniques theme provides students with a structures introduction to the modelling, texturing, lighting, rendering and camera control aspects of a 3D animation system and the creation of 2D images using a paint system. The Scripting theme introduces students to the design and implementation of an animation sequence using a scripting language. The scripting language will be used to provide students with a gentle introduction to computer programming thus reinforcing the Computer Programming unit The Set Animation Project theme is central to the course philosophy. These projects provide an important vehicle for the integration of the knowledge and skills aquired from all other level 1 units. They were devised to develop the students' abilities in the analytic and synthetic aspects of designing a computer animated sequence. In terms 1 and 2 these projects will take the form of set exercises and in term 3 they present students with an opportunity for the creative exploration of computer visualisation and animation tools They afford students their first opportunity to develop creativity and apply practical skills in parallel with the development of their knowledge base which takes place in the Animation Design 1 unit.  This unit introduces students to the principles of algorithm design and the C programming language. It thus forms the foundation upon which the rest of the computing units of the course are based. Linkages Principles of Computer Systems Computer Animation 1 Computer Programming 2 Operating Systems Techniques Mathematics for Computer Graphics This unit will be taught as a series of practical lectures delivered by a combination of lectures and practical lectures in the computer animation labs. Students will be able to demonstrate their understanding of the acquired techniques and skills by designing and implementing computer programs. In term 3, students will be requires to undertake a project which involves the design and implementation of a graphics program which demonstrates the use of simple user interaction techniques. This unit contains 4 areas: Visual Studies 1 Film Language 1 Writing for Animation Still and Moving Image Theory This unit aims to: develop the students' visual vocabulary; develop the students' creative practice; introduce students to the basic language of cinematography and traditional animation; develop a student's ability to apply the compositional rules of film language to their animationproductions; introduce students to concept development for animation: story telling, script, writing and storyboarding; develop in students a critical awareness of the still and moving image; develop in students an awareness of the historical and theoretical context in which they will be working; Objectives On completion of this unit students will be able to: demonstrate a critical understanding of visual asthetics; demonstrate skills in the use of traditional media; demonstrate an understanding of the basic language of cinematography and traditional animation;  The following fundamental elements will be covered: Colour and light: 2D Shape; 3D Form; 2D Projections of 3D objects; Within these elements the following concepts will be addressed: Geometry. Composition and aesthetics. Students will be engaged in the following media and processes: Drawing and painting. Sculpture. |