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        Pocket PCs optimize sheet material cutting

        Staff | Date: Jul 14, 2006 | Comments: 1



        Optimalon Software has released a software application for Windows Mobile Pocket PCs that optimizes cutting patterns for sheet material such as glass, metal, or wood, to improve material usage and minimize waste.


        GNCutter solves complex sheet cutting problems in "less than a second," the company says.

        (Click here for larger image of GNCutter screenshot)

        Optimizing sheet cutting patterns is a non-trivial problem, according to Optimalon. Industries that automate or otherwise mechanize the process have long used optimization software to increase productivity. Yet, there are many situations -- construction being a prime example -- where sheet material must be cut by hand on-site without access to a conventional computer, the company says.

        The performance level of current PDAs is sufficient to run complex mathematical optimization algorithms in a reasonable time, according to Optimalon. The company says that GNCutter features a simple and intuitive graphical user interface that even first-time users can quickly master.

        Optimalon lists the main features of GNCutter:
        • Nesting and Guillotine sheet cutting calculation methods
        • Two different stock types:
          • Coil or strip of unlimited length
          • Sheets or bins with finite length
        • Integrated graphical viewer for visually inspecting patterns
        • Unlimited number of pieces per sheet
        • Import pieces from Excel spreadsheets
        • Export layouts to AutoCAD DXF and Excel spreadsheets
        • Export cutting instructions to Excel spreadsheets
        GNCutter is compatible with all versions of Windows Mobile and requires .NET Compact Framework 1.0, according to Optimalon. The software is priced at $97 and may be purchased at the company's website. A 30-day free trial download is available here.



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