Calculating a cutting list with the least amount of off cut waste

Question

I am working on a project where I produce an aluminium extrusion cutting list.

The aluminium extrusions come in lengths of 5m.

I have a list of smaller lengt

Answer 1

No specific ideas on this problem, I'm afraid - but you could look into a 'genetic algorithm' (which would go something like this)...

Place the lengths to cut in a random order and give that order a score based on how good a match it is to your ideal solution (0% waste, presumably).

Then, iteratively make random alterations to the order and re-score it. If the score is higher, ditch the result. If the score is lower, keep it and use it as the basis for your next calculation. Keep going until you get your score within acceptable limits.