Optimum Solution for the Cut-To-Size Particleboard Panel Problem

A mathematical model to generate optimal solutions for cut-to-size particleboard panels, in order to minimize total waste, was developed and experimentally verified. The model was tested with a commercial particleboard plant’s weekly 3/4-inch-thickness data. Panel thickness, however, is not a model variable and therefore data for any thickness could be used. Only one thickness, however, can be analyzed at a time. The results from the example problem used to verify the model were considered very impressive by the management of the particleboard plant. The waste percentage allowed by the model was significantly smaller than the average waste generated by the manual scheduling procedures currently used at the plant. In addition, the LP model generated smaller amounts of inventory in comparison to the inventory created currently in the plant by the manual scheduling techniques. Considering only waste, cost savings alone make the model a valuable tool for the particleboard cutting operations. An integer linear programming computer package was used for solving the model. This technique should be considered for computerization of cutting procedures in particleboard operations.

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