Graph layout using a genetic algorithm

Abstract

We report on our experiences with applying genetic algorithms to the graph drawing problem. The automatic generation of drawings of graphs has important applications in key computer technologies. We are interested here in producing aesthetically-pleasing two-dimensional pictures of undirected graphs drawn with straight edges. To do so we use a hybrid process, applying concepts inspired by the force-directed placement technique with several aesthetic criteria which are to be minimized together. The optimization algorithm used is the genetic algorithm.