Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1990
Title: Emden R Gansner: Innovator in Directed Graph Techniques
Introduction
Emden R Gansner is a notable inventor based in Morristown, NJ (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of computer science, particularly in the area of graph drawing techniques. His work focuses on improving the quality and efficiency of visual representations of directed graphs.
Latest Patents
Gansner holds a patent for a technique that enhances the drawing of directed graphs. This invention, titled "Technique for drawing directed graphs," relates to a computer-implemented method that reduces edge crossings and improves picture quality. The process involves an edge list description provided by a user, which is then processed to produce a ranking of all nodes that minimizes the weighted sum of all edges. The edge cost is determined by the product of its weight and length. Nodes are positioned to reduce edge crossings using a heuristic based on their positions in adjacent ranks. This heuristic employs a generalized median as a weighting function, along with node transposition, to avoid unnecessary edge crossings. The final steps include positioning nodes to minimize the weighted sum of horizontal distances among connected nodes, computing spline control points for interconnected nodes, and generating a code sequence for the drawing.
Career Highlights
Gansner has had a distinguished career, working at AT&T Bell Laboratories, where he has been able to apply his innovative ideas in a collaborative environment. His work has had a lasting impact on the field of computer graphics and data visualization.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Gansner has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Stephen Charles North and Kiem-Phong Vo. These collaborations have contributed to advancements in graph drawing techniques and have fostered a rich exchange of ideas within the field.
Conclusion
Emden R Gansner's contributions to directed graph techniques exemplify the importance of innovation in computer science. His patented methods continue to influence the way directed graphs are visualized and understood.