The 2D strip packing problem: A new approach with verification by EA

In this paper, an innovative method is proposed for solving the two-dimensional rectangle packing problem by utilizing the Corner-Junction method (CJ method) introduced here for conjoining rectangular corners, enabling two adjoined rectangles to line up. Verification is accomplished through application of an evolutionary algorithm (EA), using the chromosome-structure also introduced. Some benchmark tests of the strip packing problem are shown to be solved by this EA, which enables 90-degree rotation of the rectangles. The experimental results show that use of the proposed CJ method provides satisfactory packing of rectangles but with quality in terms of gap varying 5-12% less than that of optimal solutions. The failure of EA to detect all viable solutions resulting from application of the CJ method is a consequence of the present sequential limitations of the proposed chromosome structure.