A 2-dimensional guillotine cutting stock problem with variable-sized stock for the honeycomb cardboard industry

Abstract

This paper introduces novel mathematical optimisation models for the 2-Dimensional guillotine Cutting Stock Problem with Variable-Sized Stock that appears in a Spanish company in the honeycomb cardboard industry. This problem mainly differs from the classical cutting stock problems in the stock, which is considered variable-sized, i.e. we have to decide the panel dimensions, width, and length. This approach is helpful in industries where the stock is produced simultaneously with the cutting process. The stock is then cut into smaller rectangular pieces that must meet the customers' requirements, such as the type of item, dimensions, demands, and technical specifications. Furthermore, in the problem tackled in this paper, the cuts are guillotine, performed side to side. The proposed mathematical models are validated using real data from the company, obtaining results that drastically reduce the produced material and leftovers, reducing operation times and economic costs.