A set of heuristic algorithms for optimal nesting of two-dimensional irregularly shaped sheet-metal blanks

Abstract

This paper deals with the development of intelligent nesting algorithms for nesting of irregularly shaped sheet-metal blanks with varying blank geometries. A set of nesting algorithms has been developed to find all the feasible arrangements in such a manner that two arbitrary blanks do not overlap or intersect by considering the constraints of sheet-metal stamping operations, such as bridge width and grain orientation, and to satisfy the design requirements, such as maximizing the strength of the blank when bending is involved as a subsequent operation. The solutions generated by this nesting algorithm are compared favorably with the manual procedures adopted in industry, and also with some of the reviewed algorithms in terms of utilization ratio.