Bin Packing Solver

Optimization algorithm that arranges parcels on standard pallets accounting for weight balance and fragility

Context

Optimal pallet loading for logistics automation

Bin Packing Solver addresses a classic combinatorial optimization problem in logistics: how to arrange a set of parcels with known dimensions and weights onto a standard European pallet in the most efficient way. The algorithm accounts for three constraints simultaneously — spatial fit, weight balance, and fragility — to produce a valid, safe stacking sequence. The output is a set of coordinates and orientations for each parcel. These can be transmitted via OPC-UA or ROS 2 directly to a robotic arm for automated sorting, or presented as step-by-step instructions for a human operator. The solution reduces wasted pallet space, lowers the risk of damaged goods, and provides a machine-readable interface ready for integration into existing warehouse or production-line systems.

What we did on it...

Vision

Problem Definition and Requirements

The project started from a concrete logistics need: automate the decision of how to stack heterogeneous parcels onto a pallet. Requirements included support for standard European pallet dimensions, weight balancing, and fragility rules.

Structure

Algorithm Design and Constraint Modeling

The solver was designed as a constrained optimization algorithm. Parcel dimensions, weights, and fragility flags are modeled as inputs. Constraints enforce physical stability, center-of-gravity limits, and stacking priority. The output schema was defined to be directly consumable by OPC-UA and ROS 2 interfaces.

Interface

Solver Implementation and Output Generation

The algorithm was implemented to produce, for each parcel, its 3D position coordinates and orientation on the pallet. Two output modes were developed: a structured data stream for robotic arm integration and a human-readable instruction set for manual operator guidance.

Launch

Validation and Integration Testing

The solver was validated against representative parcel datasets covering edge cases such as mixed fragility loads and uneven weight distributions. Integration tests verified correct communication over OPC-UA and ROS 2 protocols before deployment.