The cutting stock problem in workshops
The cutting stock problem is the math puzzle behind every cut list: how to divide fixed stock into required parts with minimal waste. In shops it shows up twice—once for long goods (1D) and once for panels (2D nesting).
1D vs 2D in practice
1D cutting asks which sequence of cuts along a bar yields the fewest sticks purchased. 2D nesting packs rectangles on sheets while respecting kerf and sometimes grain.