Abstract:
This paper describes a new method for the visualization
of tree structured relational data. It can be used
especially for the display of very large hierarchies in a 2-
dimensional space. We discuss the advantages and
limitations of current techniques of tree visualization. Our
strategy is to optimize the drawing of trees in a
geometrical plane and maximize the utilization of display
space by allowing more nodes and links to be displayed at
a limit screen resolution. We use the concept of enclosure
to partition the entire display space into a collection of
local regions that are assigned to all nodes in tree T for
the display of their sub-trees and themselves. To enable
the exploration of large hierarchies, we use a modified
semantic zooming technique to view the detail of a
particular part of the hierarchy at a time based on user’s
interest. Layout animation is also provided to preserve the
mental map while the user is exploring the hierarchy by
changing zoomed views.
