A real-time goal-seeking model for optimizing chop saw systems

Optimizing chop saws are a primary method for adding value to rough lumber and are common to many breakdown lines processing solid wood. A real-time optimization algorithm for chop saw systems has been developed based on the principle of goal seeking. This method can be implemented in the online control process since it has very fast execution speed. A simulation was conducted to compare the performance of the goal-seeking model with a published model. The results show that a higher part yield, lower amount of overproduction, and ultimately lower overall cost can be achieved by the goal-seeking model. The study also found that the goal-seeking model can balance the production rates for each part on the cutting list over the production run.