Efficient algorithm for the constrained two-dimensional cutting stock problem

This paper considers the constrained two-dimensional cutting stock problem. Some properties of the problem are derived leading to the development of a new algorithm, which uses a very efficient branching strategy for the solution of this problem. This strategy enables the early rejection of partial solutions that cannot lead to optimality. Computational results are given and compared with those produced by a leading alternative method. These results show that the new algorithm is far superior in terms of the computer time needed to solve such problems.