Introduce - Graphics/OpenGL

The Open Graphics Library (OpenGL) is a cross platform graphics library which enables programmers to render graphics on the screen. OpenGL is used by many graphical programs including CAD programs such as Pro/Engineer as well as a variety of modern games. While you will not need to implement OpenGL directly for the visualization portion of your project, you should familiarize yourself with how graphics are rendered.

The OpenGL library features literally hundreds of function calls. While the prospect of learning numerous function calls may seem daunting, OpenGL Toolkits such as the OpenGL Utility Toolkit (GLUT) provide a wrapper around OpenGL, reducing the number of OpenGL functions necessary to create a simple program to a mere few. Additionally, the toolkits extend the functionality of OpenGL, adding functions to create windows to render within or parse system events, such as key presses or mouse clicks.

The Connect module will demonstrate a series of simple OpenGL programs, which utilize GLUT. These short programs should be straight-forward enough to give you a sense of the basics of OpenGL programming. You might be surprised to learn that advanced OpenGL programs are written in much the same manner, merely extending what is rendered as to fulfill a practical application.

After completing this module, if you are interested in learning more about OpenGL programming, consider perusing a few of the links in the Extend section. Even if you choose not to pursue OpenGL further, be sure to check out the OpenGL demos for a stunning display of what can be done with OpenGL.