Optimizing Layouts – Getting More Out of Raw Material

How can raw materials be used efficiently? We use mathematical modelling and customized algorithms to optimize sawing and cutting processes. The goal is to reduce waste, increase yield and at the same time incorporate economic aspects such as production costs and the targeted utilization of by-products into the planning process.

In sawmills, the metalworking industry, and many other sectors, cutting workpieces to size is a routine task, such as cutting round timber or trimming beams to customer-specified lengths. The primary goal is to avoid waste – i.e. offcuts without sales opportunities. Our mathematical models and algorithms help to minimize such losses. They solve complex packing problems and calculate cutting patterns that make optimal use of the material.

Intelligent Section Planning with an Overall View

Not all offcuts are waste. Sometimes usable by-products are created – such as roof battens or longer pieces of wood that can be reused economically. Our approaches are designed to create cutting patterns that yield by-products in high demand. To achieve this, it might also make sense to consider the suitable selection of raw material.

Our algorithms analyze different variants and suggest cutting patterns that offer an optimal compromise between minimum waste and maximum usability of the by-products. Further, the decision for a particular cutting pattern depends not only on the material, but also on current stock levels, market demand, and feasibility in production. Our models support planners in finding a balanced solution by considering the different aspects as a whole – and potentially selecting a more complex production plan if it leads to a better overall economic result.