Smart Array
Instantly populate spaces with presets, controlling rows, columns, spacing and more.
The smart array tool is a great way to quickly fill out a space using a dynamic array where you can carefully control object spacing, position aisles, and optimise your available space.
Check out our video below which gives a great overview of the different types of array and how you can use them to fill out your floor plans fast.
Working with smart arrays
Once you have a single object selected, find the Create Smart Array icon in the Parameters Toolbar.
There are three types of array available - Standard, Staggered, and Curved
Each array type has slightly different options available. The image below shows a Standard array.
Note that you can drag the smart array panel around the canvas using the handle in its top right corner.
Some of the key features of the array are :
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Control spacing: The default column and row spacing values depend on the object you have selected. See our Default Object Spacing guide for more details. You can override these values by typing a new distance; at which point you'll see a little icon to reset to the defaults.
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Drag to fill an area: You'll see the array object on the canvas has two "Resize Handles". Click and drag these two small nodes to extend the area of the array. Alternatively you can type a value for the Column or Row number, or use the and icons to add or remove.
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Change the anchor corner: The anchor corner icons such as update where the array is pinned from so you can drag out the array however it's rotated, or wherever you've started from in a room.
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Add aisles: Use the Aisles tab to add dynamic aisles to your array, particularly helpful for theatre layouts. You can control their exact sizing and positioning as required.
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Add labels: Use the label icon to add row and/or column labels.
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Use presets: Save out smart array presets to reuse across different layouts and events. All parameters including spacings, aisles, and labels are saved and available to quickly import and apply to your current array.
Good to know: Smart arrays remain fully interactive until you explode them. You can come back to an array any time and tweak a spacing value or adjust the base object used for the array and it will update instantly.