Beta Optimizer

This new optimizer is still considered to be in beta, with specific features, including true shape, intended to be further developed in future builds. Any issues discovered should be reported to Microvellum in the form of a support case. 

Beta Nesting Processing Station Changes

 

Fig. 1: The Nesting Processing Station UI with the Beta Optimizer.

1. Optimizer Persistence: A drop-down menu in which users set the number of patterns the optimizer analyzes for better solutions before engaging in a cutting or nesting operation. Setting the optimizer to analyze more patterns can potentially result in better optimization results but increases processing time. 
   

1. Minimum Small Parts Distance: A percentage drop-down menu that functions similarly to the ‘Optimization Strategy: Small Parts to Center’ option in the Legacy optimizer. Select the percentage representing the minimum distance small parts should remain from the sheet’s edge during optimization. (Small Part Threshold must be set for this setting to be used.)
   

1. Parallel Route Restriction Distance: A fillable field that allows the user to specify a minimum distance between a part’s route and the nearest parallel sheet edge. 
   

1. Part Sorting and Grouping: A section with various menus allowing users to set levels of priority when sorting and grouping parts. Parts can be sorted by item number, machining, name, and more, in either ascending or descending order, with grouping options based on the specific sheet in the stack the part is intended to be placed on. Sorting is now layered, with the top option being the 1st in priority when sorting, then the center and bottom being the 2nd and 3rd in priority. For further information on the grouping and sorting changes, visit Microvellum's article on the topic.
   

1. Max Quantity Per Optimized Sheet: This feature is currently disabled until development is complete on it. 
   

True Shape nesting is, at the time of writing, still in development with the beta optimizer. Users who wish to utilize True Shape Nesting must still do so with the legacy optimizer.   

Beta Sawing Processing Station Changes

Fig. 2: The Sawing Processing Station UI with the Beta Optimizer.

1. Sheet Selection Type: A menu wherein one can select between priority sheet selection or weighted sheet selection for optimization. For further information on Sheet Selection Type, visit Microvellum's article on the setting. 
   

1. Optimizer Persistence: A drop-down menu in which users set the number of patterns the optimizer analyzes for better solutions before engaging in a cutting or nesting operation. Setting the optimizer to analyze more patterns can potentially result in better optimization results but increases processing time. 
   

1. Stacked Material Preference: This slider sets the priority that the optimizer assigns to yield or stacking material sheets.
   

1. Cut Preference Slider: A slider that controls the level of rip and cross cuts applied to an operation. Placing the slider at either end will ensure the cut is always applied first.
   

1. Perfect Grain Attempt Cut in Initial Sheet: A checkbox that, when disabled, keeps the default optimizer setting of creating separate sheets for perfect grain containers. When enabled, it instead cuts perfect grain parts in the same container. 
   

1. Allow Mixed Stacking (BETA): A checkbox which sets materials to use Mixed Stacking, rather than the default Identical Stacking. For further information on the differences between the material stacking strategies, visit Microvellum's article on the topic. 
   

1. Labor/Yield Slide: The Labor/Yield Slide has been replaced by the Stacked Material Preference slide, which serves the same function. 
2. Cut Preference Phase 1 Buttons: The radio buttons which allowed users to select between rip cuts and cross cuts for their phase 1 cut has been replaced with the Cut Preference Slider, which functions identically, but with greater specificity. 
3. Perfect Grain Buttons: The ‘Group Parts for Separate Operation’ and ‘Attempt to Cut Parts in Initial Sheet’ buttons have been replaced with the ‘Attempt to Cut Perfect Grain Parts in Initial Sheet’ checkbox. Grouping parts in a separate operation (the default) will now be the standard unless the checkbox is enabled. 

Scrap Usage Preference