Fabricators Using Laser Machines Look for Nesting Solutions by Optimation

OptiLaser by Optimation, utilizes a Collision AvoidanceMachine tools OptiLaser runs by vendor:
expert system in order to optimize the toolpath byAlabama Laser Systems
maintaining a head-down position during rapid traverseAmada
whenever possible, avoiding tipped-up pieces; itBystronics
provides a full-featured approach that allows the userCincinnati
to specify which parts can be common edge cutHeid
when a part is libraried. "Powerful automatedLaser Lab
nesting and NC Programming software packages areMazak
rarely available to fabricators using laser machinesMG
--flying or fixed optic, hybrid," according to Michael D.Mitsubishi
Lundy, P.E., President & CEO of Optimation.Murata Wiedemann
ÂStrippit LVD
OptiLaser determines kerf side and directionTanaka
automatically as well as sets feed rates andTrumpf
powersetting based on geometry. Users can manuallyFor 30 years OptimationÂ(R) has been the world
key orders into OptiLaser directly, or it can beleader in Part Nesting for Optimized Material and Labor
interfaced to any scheduling system that outputs anutilization. Consistently providing product advancement
ASCII file, eliminating the need to manually re-enter.leadership to industry, the company's new Nesting
Orders are automatically checked to ensure that theTechnology, AxiomVE make previous nesting methods
part can be produced and "flagged," if needed (forobsolete.  The new technology, Vision
First Article Inspection, for example, or if engineeringEmulation™, allows the system to
changes are detected). All clean orders are placed in"see" the shape of parts, just as human eyes would
the Active Order File while those not passingview them. When a person looks at a part,
inspection are sent to the Suspended Ordersthey see the whole shape and any special features on
File. This module enables the software to readthe part. This information is then used to
the Active Order File for the current demand of parts,determine if the part will fit in an area of the
extract the appropriate ready-to-nest parts from thenest. Vision Emulation eliminates excessive trial
Part Library's Master File and, drawing on theand error as well as excessive rotation.
parameters you have established in the "KnowledgeOptimation ( offers benchmarking against any other
Base," create the optimal nesting pattern. The Nestingmethod of part nesting; recent benchmarks have
Module's ability to use several intelligent tools to createshow improvements up to 15% in material efficiency
the nest is one of the primary advantages ofalone. As lean efficiencies are essential, the
Optimation's software and, ultimately, the feature thatmost advanced nesting technology guarantees the
enables you to get the parts you need, when youmost important parts are always nested in the next
need them, in their exact quantities, at the lowest cost.available machine, providing advanced information to
Lundy noted, "OptiLaser reads and applies keyintegrated costing, labor reporting, and material
manufacturing information marks for bend lines, weldinventory systems. Because Optimation is strong
lines, grain direction, part numbers, order numbers, orfinancially and has the most advanced technology; the
anything you need with Geometric Marking and Textcompany offers direct financing from its own capital
Etching. It also provides "Point and Shoot" tabresources.
placement after a nest is created as well asÂ
automatically creates lead-in/lead-out based on aOptimation
lead-in library."Michael D Lundy P.E.