Interactive Visualization of Genealogical Graphs

The general problem of visualizing “family trees”, or genealogical graphs, in 2D, is considered. A graph theoretic analysis is given, which identifies why genealogical graphs can be difficult to draw. This motivates some novel graphical representations, including one based on a dual-tree, a subgraph formed by the union of two trees. Dual-trees can be drawn in various styles, including an indented outline style, and allow users to browse general multitrees in addition to genealogical graphs, by transitioning between different dual-tree views. A software prototype for such browsing is described, that supports smoothly animated transitions, automatic camera framing, rotation of subtrees, and a novel interaction technique for expanding or collapsing subtrees to any depth with a single mouse drag. CR Categories: I.3.6 [Computer Graphics]: Methodology and Techniques—interaction techniques; G.2.2 [Discrete Mathematics]: graph theory

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2005
• Where: INFOVIS
• Authors: Michael J. McGuffin, Ravin Balakrishnan
• Keywords: Genealogical Graphs, Graph Theoretic Analysis, Indented Outline Style, INFOVIS 2005, Visualization