Computer Graphics for Engineers

Course Description

EGN2123 – Computer Graphics for Engineers is a 3-credit-hour engineering course that develops competency in computer-based graphical communication and engineering visualization. The specific course content varies among the Florida institutions offering it: some sections emphasize 3D parametric CAD modeling and engineering drawing production (similar to EGN1111C content but with more depth in 3D modeling); others emphasize computer graphics programming fundamentals (graphics algorithms, transformations, OpenGL or similar libraries); still others combine elements of both with engineering visualization tools (MATLAB graphics, Python plotting libraries, scientific visualization software). The course is typically positioned as a sophomore-level engineering course.

Students develop competency in 3D modeling for engineering applications, the production of engineering drawings from 3D models, the principles of geometric transformation and projection, and (depending on institutional emphasis) computer graphics programming and engineering visualization. Coursework typically combines lecture and example-based instruction with extensive hands-on work using CAD software, programming environments, or both.

EGN2123 is a Florida common course offered at approximately 3 Florida institutions. Because the course is offered at relatively few institutions, content varies more substantially across programs than for more widely adopted courses. Students should consult their specific institution for the current syllabus and emphasis. EGN2123 transfers as the equivalent course at all Florida public postsecondary institutions per SCNS articulation policy where the receiving institution accepts the course.

Learning Outcomes

Required Outcomes

Specific outcomes vary across Florida institutions offering EGN2123. Common outcomes typically include:

• Apply 3D parametric modeling for engineering applications, including sketch-based feature modeling (extrude, revolve, sweep, loft); applied features (holes, fillets, chamfers, patterns); the management of design intent through parametric relationships.
• Create engineering drawings from 3D models, including standard views (front, top, side, isometric), section views, detail views, and dimensioned drawings appropriate for manufacturing.
• Apply parametric assembly modeling, including bottom-up and (where included) top-down assembly modeling; assembly mates and constraints; the management of complex assemblies.
• Apply geometric transformations, including translation, rotation, scaling, reflection, and shear in 2D and 3D; the matrix representation of transformations; homogeneous coordinates; the composition of transformations.
• Apply projection theory, including parallel projection (orthographic, axonometric/isometric); perspective projection; the mathematical basis for views in engineering drawings; the difference between engineering and visual projections.
• Apply engineering visualization at intermediate level, including the visualization of engineering data, simulation results, and design alternatives; the proper choice of visualization technique.
• Demonstrate proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor, Fusion 360, CATIA, NX, or similar — institutional choice) at an intermediate level beyond foundational engineering graphics coursework.
• Apply principles of graphic standards in engineering communication, including ANSI/ASME Y14 series standards; layer management and drawing organization; documentation conventions.
• Demonstrate engineering team collaboration using shared CAD environments, including version control, file management, and team-based design work.

Optional Outcomes (Vary by Institution)

• Apply computer graphics programming at the introductory level, including 2D and 3D graphics programming using OpenGL, WebGL, or comparable graphics libraries.
• Apply graphics algorithms, including line drawing (Bresenham, DDA), polygon filling, clipping, hidden surface removal, and basic rendering at conceptual level.
• Apply introductory simulation within parametric CAD, including stress analysis (FEA), motion studies, and design optimization.
• Apply 3D printing and rapid prototyping, including model preparation for 3D printing and the iteration between design and physical prototype.
• Apply engineering visualization with programming tools, including MATLAB graphics, Python with matplotlib/pyplot/Plotly/Mayavi, or specialized scientific visualization platforms.
• Apply principles to specific engineering visualization contexts (CFD visualization, FEA result visualization, geographic information systems, biomedical imaging visualization).

Major Topics

Required Topics

• Foundations of Engineering Graphics: The role of computer graphics in engineering practice; the design-to-manufacture pipeline; the integration of CAD with downstream engineering processes (analysis, simulation, manufacturing, documentation).
• 3D Parametric Modeling — Foundations: The parametric modeling paradigm (the model is built from parameterized features that can be modified); the role of design intent; the feature tree (model history); the difference between parametric and direct modeling.
• Sketch-Based Features: 2D sketch creation (constraints, dimensions); extrude (linear feature); revolve (rotational feature); sweep (along a path); loft (between profiles); the integration of features.
• Applied Features: Holes (simple, counterbored, countersunk, tapped); fillets and rounds; chamfers; shells; patterns (linear, circular, sketch-driven, table-driven); mirror.
• Engineering Drawings from 3D Models: Drawing template selection; standard views (front, top, side, isometric, auxiliary); section views; detail views; dimensioning best practices when generating drawings from models; the integration with 2D engineering drawing standards.
• Parametric Assembly Modeling: Bottom-up assembly (assembling existing parts); top-down assembly (designing parts in the assembly context); assembly mates/constraints (mate, flush, distance, angle, tangent, concentric); managing assembly hierarchy; subassemblies; the relationship between part files and assembly files; managing assembly complexity.
• Geometric Transformations — 2D: Translation; rotation about a point; scaling; reflection; shear; the matrix representation of these transformations using homogeneous coordinates; the composition of transformations.
• Geometric Transformations — 3D: Translation, rotation about coordinate axes, rotation about an arbitrary axis; scaling; reflection across coordinate planes; the matrix representation; quaternions at conceptual level (where included).
• Projection Theory: Parallel projection — orthographic (engineering drawing), axonometric (isometric, dimetric, trimetric), oblique; perspective projection — one-point, two-point, three-point; the mathematical basis for projections; the engineering use of orthographic projection vs. the visual use of perspective.
• Engineering Visualization: The visualization of engineering data; appropriate graph and chart types; visualization of 3D scientific data (contour plots, vector field plots, isosurfaces); common engineering visualization scenarios.
• Drawing Standards Application: ANSI/ASME Y14 series in CAD output; layer management; line types and weights; title blocks; revision blocks; the integration of CAD with engineering drawing standards.
• Engineering Team Collaboration with CAD: File sharing and version control; collaborative platforms (Vault, PDM, cloud-based collaboration); managing shared assemblies; the relationship between CAD work and team engineering practice.

Optional Topics (Vary by Institution)

• Computer Graphics Programming: Introduction to graphics programming using OpenGL, WebGL, or comparable graphics libraries; the graphics pipeline; vertex and fragment shaders at introductory level.
• Graphics Algorithms: Line drawing (Bresenham, DDA); polygon filling (scan-line algorithm); clipping (Cohen-Sutherland); hidden surface removal (z-buffer, painter's algorithm); basic shading (flat, Gouraud, Phong); the relationship between graphics algorithms and graphics hardware.
• Introductory Simulation in CAD: Stress analysis with FEA modules (SolidWorks Simulation, Inventor Stress Analysis); motion studies and dynamic simulation; design optimization at introductory level.
• 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping: STL file generation; 3D printer slicing software; design for additive manufacturing; the iteration between design and physical prototype.
• Engineering Visualization Programming: MATLAB graphics; Python visualization libraries (matplotlib, Plotly, Mayavi); specialized scientific visualization platforms (ParaView, VisIt).
• Discipline-Specific Visualization: CFD visualization; FEA result visualization; biomedical imaging visualization; GIS for civil/environmental engineering.

Resources & Tools

• Common Texts: Engineering Graphics with AutoCAD (Bethune); Engineering Design Graphics with SolidWorks (Bethune/Bethune); Tools for Design Using AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Autodesk Inventor (Lieu/Sorby); Computer Graphics with OpenGL (Hearn/Baker — for graphics programming emphasis); Fundamentals of Computer Graphics (Marschner/Shirley — for graphics theory emphasis)
• Software: AutoCAD; SolidWorks; Autodesk Inventor; Fusion 360 (cloud-based, free for students); CATIA (aerospace); NX/Siemens (specialty); Creo (PTC); MATLAB; Python with NumPy/Matplotlib; OpenGL or WebGL for graphics programming (where included)
• Lab Equipment: Computer lab with CAD software access; large-format printer/plotter for engineering drawings; 3D printer (where 3D printing is included)
• Reference Standards: ANSI/ASME Y14 series; ISO drawing standards (where used)
• Reference Resources: Autodesk learning resources (free, online); SolidWorks tutorials (free, online); ASME publications on engineering drawing standards; LinkedIn Learning courses on CAD software; OpenGL Programming Guide (the "Red Book") for graphics programming

Career Pathways

EGN2123 supports career pathways in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial design, and engineering technology — particularly in roles emphasizing 3D design, visualization, and CAD-based work. The course also supports related careers in:

• Drafter / CAD Technician (SOC 17-3013) — Direct career pathway with advanced CAD certification.
• Industrial Designer (SOC 27-1021) — Foundation for product design careers.
• Computer Graphics and Visualization Specialist — In engineering, scientific, or media-adjacent contexts.
• Aerospace Engineering CAD Specialist — Florida's aerospace sector relies on advanced CAD work; CATIA proficiency particularly valuable.
• Engineering Visualization Engineer — In simulation-heavy fields (CFD, FEA, scientific computing).

Special Information

Significant Variation Across Institutions

Because EGN2123 is offered at relatively few Florida institutions (approximately 3), course content varies more substantially than for more widely adopted courses. Some institutions emphasize 3D parametric CAD modeling beyond what is covered in EGN1111C; others emphasize computer graphics programming with OpenGL or similar; still others integrate engineering visualization with programming tools. Students should consult their specific institution's current syllabus before relying on the description here for course planning.

Relationship to Other Engineering Graphics Courses

EGN2123 is typically positioned to follow foundational engineering graphics coursework (EGN1110C or EGN1111C). Where EGN1110C/EGN1111C provide foundational CAD literacy and engineering drawing fundamentals, EGN2123 typically extends to more advanced 3D modeling, engineering visualization, and (where included) graphics programming.

General Education and Transfer

EGN2123 is a Florida common course number that transfers as the equivalent course at all Florida public postsecondary institutions per SCNS articulation policy where the receiving institution accepts the course. Students transferring between institutions should consult both the sending and receiving institutions about specific articulation, as the course's content variation may affect how it is applied in the major.

Course Format

EGN2123 is offered in face-to-face, hybrid, and increasingly online formats. The CAD software work is well-suited to online delivery; many institutions offer fully online sections.

Industry Certification

Advanced engineering graphics work supports preparation for industry credentials including Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) credentials and SolidWorks Certified Professional (CSWP) and Certified SolidWorks Expert (CSWE).