Smart connectors automatically route around obstacles and maintain clean paths between shapes as you move them around your diagram.

Routing Modes

Diagrammix3 offers three connector routing modes to suit different diagram styles:

Straight Line

The simplest routing mode draws a direct line between the start and end points.

  • Best for: Minimal diagrams, when you want complete control
  • Behavior: Direct path, ignores obstacles
  • Use case: Simple connections where shapes won't overlap the line

Orthogonal (Manhattan)

Creates connections using only horizontal and vertical line segments, forming right angles at each turn.

  • Best for: Flowcharts, technical diagrams, circuit diagrams
  • Behavior: 90-degree turns only, no diagonal segments
  • Use case: Professional diagrams requiring structured layouts

Smart Orthogonal

An intelligent routing mode that combines orthogonal routing with automatic obstacle avoidance.

  • Best for: Complex diagrams with many overlapping elements
  • Behavior: Routes around shapes automatically, recalculates when shapes move
  • Use case: Large diagrams where manual routing would be tedious

Smart Connector Routing Modes

Changing Routing Mode

To change a connector's routing mode:

  1. Select the connector you want to modify
  2. Open the Inspector panel on the right
  3. Find the Connector section
  4. Choose from the routing mode dropdown:
    • Straight
    • Orthogonal
    • Smart Orthogonal

The connector will immediately recalculate its path using the new routing mode.

Obstacle Avoidance

When using Smart Orthogonal mode, connectors automatically avoid obstacles in their path.

How It Works

The smart routing engine:

  • Detects all shapes in the diagram
  • Calculates the optimal path around obstacles
  • Maintains minimum distance from shape edges (buffer distance)
  • Minimizes the number of turns and total path length
  • Recalculates automatically when shapes move

Configuring Avoidance Parameters

Fine-tune obstacle avoidance in Preferences → Diagram:

Shape Buffer Distance

  • Controls the minimum spacing between connectors and shapes
  • Larger values: more clearance, wider routes
  • Smaller values: tighter routes, may look cramped
  • Default: 10 pixels

Segment Penalty

  • Controls routing complexity preference
  • Higher values: fewer segments, simpler paths
  • Lower values: more segments, tighter routes
  • Default: balanced for most diagrams

Smart Routing Parameters

Dynamic Recalculation

Smart connectors recalculate their routes automatically when:

  • You move a shape that the connector is attached to
  • You move a shape that blocks the connector's current path
  • You resize a shape near the connector
  • You add or remove shapes that affect the routing

This keeps your diagram looking clean as you work, without manual adjustment.

Tips for Smart Connectors

  1. Use Smart Orthogonal for complex diagrams - Let the algorithm handle routing in crowded layouts
  2. Increase buffer distance for clarity - If connectors look too close to shapes
  3. Switch to Straight for simple connections - Don't use smart routing when a direct line is clearest
  4. Lock shapes when finalizing - Prevent accidental moves that trigger recalculation
  5. Combine with Manual Bend Points - Add manual bends to smart connectors for hybrid control