...in summary

From this project we can expect:

• New mathematical programming models that incorporate uncertainty in classical Cutting and Packing problems, contributing to close the gap between research results and real-world needs in this field.
• New resolution methods, based on advanced hybridization techniques between mathematical programming optimization and algorithmic optimization (matheuristics).
• A better understanding of the impact of uncertainty in Cutting and Packing solutions for concrete real-world classes of problems.

To make this project possible, the collaboration between INESC TEC and the University of São Paulo (USP) and São Paulo State University (UNESP), in Brazil, is key. On the one hand, the team members from INESC TEC have significant experience working with two-dimensional cutting problems and three-dimensional container loading problems, both academic and practical (consultancy projects developed with companies), as well as major expertise on algorithmic optimization, namely metaheuristics. On the other hand, the team members from Brazil bring to the project top-level expertise in mathematical programming optimization, having already developed some exploratory work on uncertainty in one-dimensional multi-period cutting problems. The synergies arising from this collaboration make this a relevant and impactful research prospect.