Nesting of Complex 2-D Parts Within Irregular Boundaries

Abstract

An algorithm is outlined for the nesting of complex parts onto resources with irregular boundaries. The algorithm adapts Albano and Sapuppo’s technique for nesting irregular profiles on rectangular resources using a novel placement procedure. Several techniques for improving computational efficiency are also described, including complex profile simplification using a modified convex hull strategy. The enhanced algorithm is applied to the nesting of irregular parts on both rectangular resources and within irregular shaped part voids as applied to the offshore platform and ship building industry.