Nesting is the process of placing objects together with minimal void space between them. Nesting is required in the design and manufacturing of almost every product. The project is developing a three dimensional (3-D) algorithm for the packaging of irregular 3-D objects inside target volumes. The computer program automatically packs the maximum number of components possible with minimum wasted volume voids. An intelligent software driven system for use in the design and manufacturing of any product that enables designers to automatically visualize nested layouts; reduce lead time for new product introductions; and enhance communications between design/engineering and manufacturing is being developed. In the computer industry, nesting of the various components is done manually in order to achieve minimum size of the computer box. A designer can quickly assemble and define a computer geometry from prescribed components and their location constraints. Available programs for automotive and aerospace industries are interactive, semi-automated, require experienced operator assistance, and are restrictive, based on conventional rectangular shapes.The potential commercial application as described by the awardee: Extensive applications exist i@ the computer, semiconductor, printed circuit board, automotive, aerospace, naval, and all industries presently utilizing Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing programs. The global number, is estimated at 305,000 companies (including organizations that are planning to use Computgr Aided Design).
