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In this paper we present a new architecture for visualization systems that is based on Data Base Management System (DBMS) technology. By building on the mechanisms present in a next-generation DBMS, rather than merely on the capabilities of a standard file manager, we show that a simpler and more powerful visualization system can be constructed. We retain the popular boxes and arrows programming notation for constructing visualization programs, but add a flight simulator model of movement to navigate the output of such programs. In addition, we provide a means to specify a hierarchy of abstracts of data of different types and resolutions, so that a zoom capability can be supported. The underlying DBMS support for this system, Tioga, is briefly described, as well as the current state of the implementation.
Stonebraker et al. (Mon,) studied this question.