The term "auto routing" refers to the automatic calculation of the shortest or otherwise optimal path between two points. Depending on the use case, “optimal” may mean not only the shortest distance, but also the fastest route, the lowest-cost option, or a technically feasible path that complies with defined rules and constraints. Auto routing is used both in route planning (e.g., logistics, field service, navigation) and in engineering design and planning applications (e.g., PCB layout, cable/pipe routing, fiber-optic and network planning).
Automatic Path and Route Calculation: Computing a connection between start and destination (shortest/fastest/most suitable path) based on map data, layout data, or planning models.
Optimization by Objectives: Selecting the “best” route based on distance, time, cost, energy/CO₂, material usage, or service priority—depending on the application.
Constraint and Rule Handling: Considering restrictions such as closures, truck limitations, toll/low-emission zones, safety clearances, minimum bend radii, protected areas, or technical design rules.
Multi-Point and Network Routing: Routing across multiple destinations or within network topologies (e.g., multi-stop tours, distribution networks, ring/star structures, routes with branches).
Dynamic Auto Routing (Re-Routing): Automatic replanning when conditions change—for example traffic congestion, resource changes, shifting priorities, new jobs, or modified design constraints.
Capacity and Resource Awareness: Incorporating availability and capacity (e.g., vehicles, teams, machines) or infrastructure capacity (e.g., free ducts, splice closures, ports, spare route capacity).
Geocoding, Topology and Data Validation: Checking and cleansing input data (addresses, coordinates, network segments, nodes/edges) to prevent routing errors.
Auto Routing in PCB Design: Automatically routing traces while complying with design rules (clearances, trace width, layer changes/vias), optionally including differential pairs, impedance targets, and reduced crossings.
Auto Routing in Fiber Network Rollout (FTTx): Automated route and corridor planning using GIS data, factoring in build/permitting constraints, duct/cable capacities, splice points, customer drops, and cost models.
Integration & Output Formats: Handing off routes to navigation/apps, CAD/EDA tools, GIS systems, or construction/execution documentation (e.g., bills of materials, cable lengths, route plans, reports).
A dispatching system automatically calculates the shortest route between two customer sites while accounting for current road closures.
A logistics provider optimizes daily multi-stop tours to reduce driving time and reliably meet delivery time windows.
A field service platform automatically routes technicians to jobs based on skills, shift schedules, and priorities.
In PCB design software, traces are automatically routed between component pins while meeting clearance rules, layer changes, and width constraints.
For fiber network planning, a GIS-based solution proposes routes along suitable corridors, considers existing ducts, and compares construction alternatives by cost.
In plant or building design (CAD), cable paths or pipelines are auto-routed to avoid clashes and comply with minimum bend-radius requirements.
