Two-dimensional packing algorithms for layout of disconnected graphs

We present and contrast several efficient two-dimensional packing algorithms for specified aspect ratio. These near-linear algorithms are based on strip packing, tiling, and alternate-bisection methodologies and can be used in the layout of disconnected objects in graph visualization. The parameters that affect the performance of these algorithms as well as the circumstances under which they perform well are analyzed. 2002 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.