Dynamic Multilevel Graph Visualization

Abstract

We adapt multilevel, force-directed graph layout techniques to visualizing dynamic graphs in which vertices and edges are added and removed in an online fashion (i.e., unpredictably). We maintain multiple levels of coarseness using a dynamic, randomized coarsening algorithm. To ensure the vertices follow smooth trajectories, we employ dynamics simulation techniques, treating the vertices as point particles. We simulate fine and coarse levels of the graph simultaneously, coupling the dynamics of adjacent levels. Projection from coarser to finer levels is adaptive, with the projection determined by an affine transformation that evolves alongside the graph layouts. The result is a dynamic graph visualizer that quickly and smoothly adapts to changes in a graph.