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

I've been struggling with this exact ( the lenght for my problem is 6 m) problem here too.

The solution I'm working on is a bit ugly, but I don't settle for your solution. Let me explain:

Stock size 5 m

Needs to cut in sizes(1 of each):

**3,5

1

1,5**

Your solution:

3,5 | 1 with a waste of 0,5

1,5 with a left over of 3,5

See the problem?

The solution I'm working on -> Brute force

1 - Test every possible solution

2 - Order the solutuion by their waste

3 - Choose the best solution

4 - Remove the items in the solution from the "Universe"

5 - Goto 1

I know it's time consuming (but I take 1h30 m to lunch... so... :) )

I really need the optimum solution (I do an almoust optimum solution by hand (+-) in excel) not just because I'm obsecive but also the product isn't cheap.

If anyone has an easy better solution I'd love it