A layout algorithm for data flow diagrams

Journal Article · Tue Apr 01 00:00:00 EST 1986 · IEEE Trans. Software Eng.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1109/TSE.1986.6312901· OSTI ID:5549864

Batini, C; Nardelli, E; Tamassia, R

A layout algorithm is presented that allows the automatic drawing of data flow diagrams, a diagrammatic representation widely used in the functional analysis of information systems. A grid standard is defined for such diagrams, and aesthetics for a good readability are identified. The layout algorithm receives as input an abstract graph, specifying connectivity relations between the elements of the diagram, and produces as output a corresponding diagram according to the aesthetics. The basic strategy is to build incrementally the layout; first, a good topology is constructed with few crossings between edges; subsequently, the shape of the diagram is determined in terms of angles appearing along edges; and finally, dimensions are given to the graph, obtaining a grid skeleton for the diagram.

• Research Organization: Dipartimento di Informatica e Sistemistica, Universita di Roma ''La Sapienza,'' Via Buonarroti 12, 00185 Rome
• OSTI ID: 5549864
• Journal Information: IEEE Trans. Software Eng.; (United States), Vol. 12:4
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS//MATHEMATICS, COMPUTING, AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
DATA-FLOW PROCESSING
DIAGRAMS
ALGORITHMS
GRAPHS
INCIDENCE ANGLE
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
TOPOLOGY
MATHEMATICAL LOGIC
MATHEMATICS
PROGRAMMING
990200* - Mathematics & Computers