A graph grammar‐based approach for graph layout. (30th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Liu, Yufeng; Zeng, Xiaoqin; Zou, Yang; Zhang, Kang
• Is Part Of: Software, practice & experience. Volume 48:Number 9(2018)
• Page Start: 1523
• Page End: 1535
• Publication Date: 2018-05-30
• Subjects: graph grammars -- graphic layout -- quantitative analysis -- VPLs; Computer software -- Periodicals; Computer programming -- Periodicals; Computer programs -- Periodicals; 005.3
• DOI: 10.1002/spe.2588
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-0644

Abstract

Summary: As a two‐dimensional formal tool, graph grammars are capable of handling the layout problems of visual programming languages. Based on an edge‐based graph grammar (EGG), this paper proposes a novel layout approach that uses the unique features of EGG and overcomes the weakness of existing layout approaches. In order to make the approach rigorous yet concise, the graph grammar mechanisms with layout constraints and quantitative analysis techniques are combined together as an integrity. First, the basic notions of EGG are briefly introduced; second, the layout approach is presented that consists of two phases, ie, bottom‐up parsing and top‐down derivation. Finally, a case study is given by taking the standard flowchart as an example to demonstrate the working process of the proposed approach.