Minimizing waste (off-cuts) using cutting stock model: The case of one dimensional cutting stock problem in wood working industry
Abstract: The main objective
of this study is to develop a model for solving the one dimensional cutting
stock problem in the wood working industry, and develop a program for its
implementation.
Design/methodology/approach: This study adopts the pattern oriented approach
in the formulation of the cutting stock model. A pattern generation algorithm
was developed and coded using Visual basic.NET language. The cutting stock
model developed is a Linear Programming (LP) Model constrained by numerous
feasible patterns. A LP solver was integrated with the pattern generation
algorithm program to develop a one - dimensional cutting stock model
application named GB Cutting Stock Program.
Findings and Originality/value: Applying the model to a real life
optimization problem significantly reduces material waste (off-cuts) and
minimizes the total stock used. The result yielded about 30.7% cost savings for
company-I when the total stock materials used is compared with the former
cutting plan. Also, to evaluate the efficiency of the application, Case I
problem was solved using two top commercial 1D-cutting stock software. The results show that the GB program performs
better when related results were compared.
Research limitations/implications: This study round up the linear
programming solution for the number of pattern to cut.
Practical implications: From Managerial perspective, implementing
optimized cutting plans increases productivity by eliminating calculating
errors and drastically reducing operator mistakes. Also, financial benefits
that can annually amount to millions in cost savings can be achieved through
significant material waste reduction.
Originality/value: This paper developed a linear programming one
dimensional cutting stock model based on a pattern generation algorithm to
minimize waste in the wood working industry. To implement the model, the
algorithm was coded using VisualBasic.net and linear programming solver called
lpsolvedll (dynamic link library) was integrated to develop a one dimensional
cutting stock Program.
Keywords: 1D-Cutting Stock
Problem, Cutting Stock Model, Pattern Generation Algorithm, Linear programming
Author: Gbemileke A. Ogunranti, Ayodeji E. Oluleye
Journal Code: jptindustrigg160022
