A dataflow toolkit for visualization

A toolkit known as apE is presented. Originally, this was an acronym for animation production environment, but apE has become known as a software designed for more than just animation. Previous work is briefly reviewed, and the processing of designing the system is discussed. Common elements in building any graphics system as well as elements particular to building a large system are examined. The design and construction of apE 1.1 and apE 2.0 are described. The policy governing the distribution of apE and the advantages of academic software development are discussed.<<ETX>>