ALP TRG 112 Nesting Supplement 2020.1

ALPHACAM 2020.
1
NESTING
Copyright
Copyright © 2019 Hexagon AB and/or its subsidiaries and affiliates. All rights reserved.
Any copyright or other intellectual property right of whatever nature which subsists or may subsist in the
presentation and/or content of the programs (including without limitation its look, feel, visual or other non-literal
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system or translated
into any language, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise,
without the express written permission of Hexagon AB and/or its subsidiaries and affiliates.
Unauthorised reproduction or distribution of these programs or any part thereof is unlawful and may result in
civil or criminal penalties.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
All product names mentioned in this publication, and not listed above, are acknowledged as the trademarks of
the respective manufacturers and producers of such products.
Hexagon AB and/or its subsidiaries and affiliates makes no representations or warranties with respect to the
contents hereof and specifically disclaim any implied warranties of satisfactory quality or fitness for any
particular purpose. Further, Hexagon AB and/or its subsidiaries and affiliates reserves the right to revise this
publication and to make changes in the contents hereof without obligation to notify any person of such changes
or revisions.
The information contained within this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of the vendor. The software described in this document is furnished under a licence
agreement and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
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ALPHACAM 2020.1
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Contents
Copyright ..................................................................................................................................... i
Conventions used in this manual.............................................................................................. xi
Recommended Operating Systems and Hardware for ALPHACAM ..................................... xii

Supported Operating Systems ................................................................................................. xii
ALPHACAM Minimum Specifications ....................................................................................... xii
Hexagon Customer Portal ........................................................................................................ xiii
ALPHACAM esupport ............................................................................................................... xiv
Nesting .......................................................................................................................................... 1
Nesting Options .......................................................................................................................... 2
Sheet Database ...................................................................................................................... 2
New Nest List .......................................................................................................................... 2
Load Nest List ......................................................................................................................... 2
Nest Parts ............................................................................................................................... 2
Manual Nest ............................................................................................................................ 2
Nesting Information ................................................................................................................. 2
Save Off Cut............................................................................................................................ 2
Define Sheets and Small Part Zones ...................................................................................... 2
Define Sheets and No-Nest Zones ......................................................................................... 2
Manual Nesting ............................................................................................................................ 3

Items to be Nested ..................................................................................................................... 4
Nesting Parameters .................................................................................................................... 4
Minimum Gap Between Paths ................................................................................................ 4
Gap at Sheet Edge ................................................................................................................. 4
Extra Gap at Lead-In Start ...................................................................................................... 4
Area Estimate ........................................................................................................................... 10
Nesting in Essential ................................................................................................................... 11

Nesting Method ........................................................................................................................ 11
Rectangular Nesting ............................................................................................................. 11
True Shape Nesting .............................................................................................................. 11
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Use Original Nester ............................................................................................................... 11

Vero Nesting ......................................................................................................................... 11
Items to be Nested ................................................................................................................... 12
Define Part Parameters ............................................................................................................ 12
Common Options .................................................................................................................. 12
Specific Options .................................................................................................................... 13
Vero Nesting ......................................................................................................................... 17
Part Selection ........................................................................................................................ 17
Sheet Selection ..................................................................................................................... 18
Sheet Parameters..................................................................................................................... 19
How Many of these Sheets ................................................................................................... 19
Sheet Thickness.................................................................................................................... 19
Sheet Material ....................................................................................................................... 19
Settings ..................................................................................................................................... 20
 For Space ......................................................................................................................... 20
 For Cuts ............................................................................................................................ 20
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 20
Optimisation Level................................................................................................................. 21
Cut Direction ......................................................................................................................... 21
Options .................................................................................................................................. 21
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 21
Minimum Gap Between around parts ................................................................................... 21
Cut Width .............................................................................................................................. 21
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 22
Sheet Order........................................................................................................................... 23
Pack To ................................................................................................................................. 23
Options .................................................................................................................................. 26
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Minimum Gap Between Paths .............................................................................................. 26

Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 26
Extra Gap at Lead-In Start .................................................................................................... 26
Time per Sheet (Seconds) .................................................................................................... 26
Search Resolution ................................................................................................................. 26
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 27
Pack To ................................................................................................................................. 28
Options .................................................................................................................................. 30
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 30
Vero Nesting ......................................................................................................................... 31
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 31
Sheet Order........................................................................................................................... 32
Pack To ................................................................................................................................. 32
Options .................................................................................................................................. 34
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 34
Total Computation Time ........................................................................................................ 34
 Evenly Spaced Parts ........................................................................................................ 34
Extensions ................................................................................................................................ 35
Example Patterns ..................................................................................................................... 39
Rectangular Nesting set to For Cuts ..................................................................................... 40
Rectangular Nesting set to For Space .................................................................................. 40
True Shape Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active ....... 41
True Shape Nesting set to any angle Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active... 41
Use Original Nester set to 90° Rotations. ............................................................................. 42
Use Original Nester set to 1° rotation. .................................................................................. 42
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Vero Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active .................. 43
Vero Nesting set to any angle and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active .............................. 43
Nesting in all other levels.......................................................................................................... 44

Sheet Database ........................................................................................................................ 44
Add Material Type ................................................................................................................. 45
Delete Material Type ............................................................................................................. 45
Add Thickness....................................................................................................................... 45
Delete Thickness................................................................................................................... 45
Add Sheet ............................................................................................................................. 45
Pick Sheet ............................................................................................................................. 45
Rotate 90° Anticlockwise ...................................................................................................... 45
Rotate 90° Clockwise ............................................................................................................ 45
Insert sheet ........................................................................................................................... 45
Delete Sheet ......................................................................................................................... 45
Import from Legacy DB ......................................................................................................... 45
Nest Parts ................................................................................................................................. 47
Nest Parts Ribbon ................................................................................................................. 48
Settings ..................................................................................................................................... 49
General ..................................................................................................................................... 50
Vero Nesting ......................................................................................................................... 51
Options ..................................................................................................................................... 52
 For Space ......................................................................................................................... 52
 For Cuts ............................................................................................................................ 52
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 52
Optimisation Level................................................................................................................. 53
Cut Direction ......................................................................................................................... 53
Options .................................................................................................................................. 53
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 53
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Minimum Gap Between around parts ................................................................................... 53

Cut Width .............................................................................................................................. 53
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 54
Sheet Order........................................................................................................................... 55
Pack To ................................................................................................................................. 55
Options .................................................................................................................................. 58
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 58
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 59
Pack To ................................................................................................................................. 60
Options .................................................................................................................................. 62
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 62
Vero Nesting ......................................................................................................................... 63
NC Code ............................................................................................................................... 63
Sheet Order........................................................................................................................... 64
Pack To ................................................................................................................................. 64
Options .................................................................................................................................. 66
Gap at Sheet Edge ............................................................................................................... 66
Total Computation Time ........................................................................................................ 66
 Evenly Spaced Parts ........................................................................................................ 66
Extensions ................................................................................................................................ 67
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Loading Pre-Saved options ...................................................................................................... 71

Adding Parts ............................................................................................................................. 71
Show / Hide Parameters set to Active ...................................................................................... 72
Vero Nesting ......................................................................................................................... 76
Show / Hide Parameters set to Active Important Note ............................................................. 76
Finishing your selections .......................................................................................................... 77
Editing the options .................................................................................................................... 77
Sheet Selection ........................................................................................................................ 78
Sheet Parameters when using From Screen ........................................................................... 79
How Many of these Sheets ................................................................................................... 79
Sheet Thickness.................................................................................................................... 79
Sheet Material ....................................................................................................................... 79
Sheet Parameters when using From Database ....................................................................... 80
Example Patterns ..................................................................................................................... 81
Rectangular Nesting set to For Cuts ..................................................................................... 82
Rectangular Nesting set to For Space .................................................................................. 82
True Shape Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active ....... 83
True Shape Nesting set to any angle Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active... 83
Use Original Nester set to 90° Rotations. ............................................................................. 84
Use Original Nester set to 1° rotation. .................................................................................. 84
Vero Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active .................. 85
Vero Nesting set to any angle and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active .............................. 85
Nesting Project Manager ........................................................................................................... 86
Sheet Options ............................................................................................................................. 88

Define Sheets and Small Part Zones ....................................................................................... 89
Adding to the Sheet Database ................................................................................................. 91
Part Settings for Small Part Zone Use ..................................................................................... 92
Define Sheets and No-Nest Zones ........................................................................................... 94
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Support Tags and Bridging....................................................................................................... 99

Adding support Tags .............................................................................................................. 100
Using the Edit Machining method ........................................................................................... 101
Using the <RClick> method .................................................................................................... 104
Specify ................................................................................................................................ 105
Limitations ........................................................................................................................... 105
Tag Type and Tag Size ....................................................................................................... 106
Bridged Nesting ...................................................................................................................... 107
Join Parts with Bridge ............................................................................................................. 109
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Table of Images
FIGURE 1 - CUSTOMER SUPPORT PORTAL XIII
FIGURE 2 - ESUPPORT PAGE XIV
FIGURE 3 - SAMPLE FILE USED IN ALL EXAMPLES 3
FIGURE 4 – MANUAL NESTING OPTION CHOICE DIALOGUE 3
FIGURE 5 - OPTION SET TO GEOMETRIES ONLY 4
FIGURE 6 - MANUAL NESTING PARAMETERS 5
FIGURE 7 - PICK YOUR SHAPE TO NEST 5
FIGURE 8 - SQUARE SELECTED 5
FIGURE 9 - MANUAL POSITIONING OF THE CHOSEN PART 6
FIGURE 10 - ITEMS PLACED WHERE REQUIRED MANUALLY 6
FIGURE 11 - SECOND ITEM PLACED ACCORDINGLY 7
FIGURE 12 - TRIANGLE PART PLACED AS DRAWN 8
FIGURE 13 - TRIANGLE PART PLACED USING ROTATION OPTIONS 8
FIGURE 14 - FINAL PART PLACED USING THE ROTATION OPTIONS TO COMPLETE THE NEST 9
FIGURE 15 - NESTED SHEET TO ANALYSE 10
FIGURE 16 - ANALYSING THE SHEET FOR EFFICIENCY 10
FIGURE 17 - NESTING METHOD DROP DOWN LIST 11
FIGURE 18 - ITEMS TO BE NESTED OPTIONS 12
FIGURE 19 - COMMON OPTIONS ON ALL DIALOGUES 12
FIGURE 20 - RECTANGULAR NESTING OPTIONS 13
FIGURE 21 - TRUE SHAPE NESTING OPTIONS 14
FIGURE 22 - TRUE SHAPE NESTING ROTATION OPTIONS 14
FIGURE 23 - USE ORIGINAL NESTER OPTIONS 16
FIGURE 24 - VERO NESTING OPTIONS 17
FIGURE 25 - SHEET CHOICE IN ESSENTIAL NESTING 18
FIGURE 26 - SHEET PARAMETERS IN ESSENTIAL 19
FIGURE 27 - RECTANGULAR NESTING SET TO  FOR SPACE 20
FIGURE 28 - RECTANGULAR NESTING SET TO  FOR CUTS 20
FIGURE 29 - RECTANGULAR NESTING GAP OPTIONS 21
FIGURE 31 - SHEET ORDERING OPTIONS 23
FIGURE 32 - PACKING OPTIONS 23
FIGURE 33 - TRUE SHAPE NESTING GAP OPTIONS 26
FIGURE 34 – USE ORIGINAL NESTER OPTIONS 27
FIGURE 36 – USE ORIGINAL NESTER GAP OPTIONS 30
FIGURE 37 – VERO NESTING OPTIONS 31
FIGURE 40 - VERO NESTING GAP OPTIONS 34
FIGURE 41 - NESTING EXTENSIONS 35
FIGURE 42 - SHEET DATABASE MAIN WINDOW 44
FIGURE 43 - SHEET DATABASE COMMANDS 45
FIGURE 44 - EXAMPLE SHEET MATERIAL LISTING 46
FIGURE 45 - SHEET SPECIFIC SETTINGS 46
FIGURE 46 - SHEET GRAIN DIRECTION SETTINGS 46
FIGURE 47 - MAIN NEST PARTS DIALOGUE 47
FIGURE 48 - NEST PARTS RIBBON 48
FIGURE 49 - NESTING SETTINGS DIALOGUE 49
FIGURE 50 - SETTINGS FILE OPTIONS 50
FIGURE 51 - ITEMS TO BE NESTED OPTIONS. 50
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FIGURE 52 - NESTING METHOD DROP DOWN OPTIONS 51

FIGURE 53 - RECTANGULAR NESTING SET TO  FOR SPACE 52
FIGURE 54 - RECTANGULAR NESTING SET TO  FOR CUTS 52
FIGURE 55 - RECTANGULAR NESTING GAP OPTIONS 53
FIGURE 59 - TRUE SHAPE NESTING GAP OPTIONS 58
FIGURE 60 – USE ORIGINAL NESTER OPTIONS 59
FIGURE 62 – USE ORIGINAL NESTER GAP OPTIONS 62
FIGURE 63 – VERO NESTING OPTIONS 63
FIGURE 66 - VERO NESTING GAP OPTIONS 66
FIGURE 67 - NESTING EXTENSIONS 67
FIGURE 68 - RECTANGULAR NESTING OPTIONS 72
FIGURE 70 - TRUE SHAPE NESTING ROTATION OPTIONS 73
FIGURE 71 - USE ORIGINAL NESTER OPTIONS 75
FIGURE 72 - VERO NESTING OPTIONS 76
FIGURE 73 - USE CANCEL TO FINISH THE PROCESS 77
FIGURE 74 - CONFIGURE A PARTS OPTIONS 77
FIGURE 75 - USING THE FROM SCREEN OPTION 78
FIGURE 76 - USING THE FROM DATABASE OPTION 78
FIGURE 77 - SHEET PARAMETERS USING FROM SCREEN 79
FIGURE 78 - SHEET PARAMETERS USING FROM DATABASE 80
FIGURE 79 - SHEET PARAMETERS USING FROM DATABASE 80
FIGURE 80 - SAMPLE NESTING PROJECT MANAGER PAGE 86
FIGURE 81 - NESTING PROJECT MANAGER <RCLICK> OPTIONS 86
FIGURE 82 - DEFINE SHEETS AND SMALL PARTS ZONES SAMPLE FILE 89
FIGURE 83 - SETTING THE SHEET 89
FIGURE 84 - SETTING THE SMALL PART ZONE 90
FIGURE 85 - SMALL PART ZONE DEFINED 90
FIGURE 86 - ADDING A NO NEST ZONE SHEET TO THE SHEET DATABASE 91
FIGURE 87 - SHEET DATABASE INFORMATION 91
FIGURE 88 - DEFINE AS SMALL PART OPTION 92
FIGURE 89 - COMPLETED NEST WITH SMALL PARTS SORTED AS REQUIRED 93
FIGURE 90 - SAMPLE FILE FOR DEFINE SHEET AND NO NEST ZONE 94
FIGURE 91 - SAMPLE DAMAGED IMAGE WITH CONTROLLING GEOMETRIES CREATED 95
FIGURE 92 - SELECT THE NO NEST ZONES 96
FIGURE 93 - IDENTIFYING THE NO NEST ZONES 96
FIGURE 94 - NO NEST ZONES IDENTIFIED 97
FIGURE 95 - RESULTING NO NEST ZONE AFTER PROCESSING 98
FIGURE 96 - ONLY A SINGLE DAMAGED SHEET TO RUN 98
FIGURE 97 - MACHINE > EDIT MACHINING > ADD SUPPORT TAGS 100
FIGURE 98 - AUTOMATIC SUPPORT TAG MENU OPTION 100
FIGURE 99 - USING THE EDIT MACHINING METHOD 101
FIGURE 100 - ADD SUPPORT TAGS DIALOGUE 101
FIGURE 101 - SUPPORT TAG LOCATION 102
FIGURE 102 - EDIT MACHINING SUPPORT TAG WARNING 102
FIGURE 103 - ADDED SUPPORT TAGS 103
FIGURE 104 - USING THE <RCLICK> METHOD 104
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FIGURE 105 - AUTOMATIC SUPPORT TAGS DIALOGUE 104

FIGURE 106 - NUMBER OF TAGS 105
FIGURE 107 - APPROXIMATE TAG INTERVAL 105
FIGURE 108 - LIMITATIONS OPTIONS 105
FIGURE 109 - TAG TYPE AND SIZE SETTINGS 106
FIGURE 110 - AUTOMATIC SUPPORT TAGS ADDED 106
FIGURE 111 - NESTING SPECIAL FUNCTIONS 107
FIGURE 112 - BRIDGE NESTING CONFIGURATION 107
FIGURE 113 - BRIDGED NESTING SHOWING THE LINKS 108
FIGURE 114 - SIMPLE NESTED SHEET 109
FIGURE 115 - BRIDGE PARTS WIDTH 110
FIGURE 116 - <LCLICK> FOR THE FIRST POINT TO BRIDGE 110
FIGURE 117 - CHOOSE THE SECOND POINT 110
FIGURE 118 - AFTER APPLYING THE SECOND POINT TO BRIDGE 111
FIGURE 119 - EXAMPLE OF MANY APPLIED BRIDGES 111
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Conventions used in this manual

To enable you to use the information in this guide effectively, you need to understand the conventions used in
the guide to represent differing types of information.
• Buttons on the screen are represented as the button text in square brackets.
For example: Click on [OK].
• Keys on the keyboard are represented as bold lettering in between < > characters.
For example: Press <Enter>.
• Ribbon Tab options are represented as a path with the Ribbon Tab in UPPER case with sub menus
Capitalised and separated with an arrow
For example: Select FILE > Open.
• Field names are represented as bold text. And the value to be entered will be represented by Bold
Text.
For example: Enter the value 50 in the Offset field. Or
When prompted for the X & Y values type 100,50 <Enter>
Denotes a <LClick> or Primary Mouse Button Click.

Denotes a <RClick> or Secondary Mouse Button Click.
 This is a note. It contains useful or additional information.
 This is a reference. It directs you to another part of the user guide.
This is a thought box. It is generally used in exercises and contains a question for you to
consider.
 This is a highlighted note to emphasise information
 This is a warning; it contains information that you must not ignore.
 This is a tip. It is generally used in exercises and offers further advice.
1. This is the first line of a number list item
2. This is the second item of the numbered instructions, which you must
3. Follow in sequence.
• This is a list
• of items, in which
• The order is not important.
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Recommended Operating Systems and Hardware for

ALPHACAM
Supported Operating Systems

• Operating System
• 64bit operating systems of the following list are supported,
• Windows 7 (Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate) SP1 required,
• Windows 8.1 Professional and Enterprise,
• Windows 10 Professional and Enterprise.
• ALPHACAM will install and run on the 'Home' editions of the above operating systems. However, this
is not recommended, and we cannot guarantee to fix any ALPHACAM issues specifically related to
these operating systems.
• Nvidia or ATI Open GL Graphics Card with 1Gb dedicated memory
 We recommend you keep up to date with the with the latest Software Updates for the
supported operating systems and drivers for your hardware base.
 Any Windows Operating system (OS) prior to and including Vista, is not a supported
operating system.
ALPHACAM Minimum Specifications

The latest minimum specification can be found at
http://www.alphacam.com/systemrequirements
This minimum specification is to run any Alphacam Essential module, you will need to considerably increase
the specification if you are working with solid models and producing the NC code for 3D machining and 3, 4, or
5 axis simultaneous machining strategies.
Your minimum specifications should be the fastest processor with the most memory and the highest
specification video card that your budget will allow.
 If using Autodesk Inventor Files, please check the current Inventor View requirements at
autodesk inventor view
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Hexagon Customer Portal

At Hexagon, we strive to provide you and your business with first class technical support and services. The
Customer Support Portal allows you the tools you need to receive the best from your software. In addition to
generating new and updating existing support cases, the portal allows you:
• Unlimited user logins for your company.
• Access to all your licenses for easy reference.
• Get the latest releases and software update at the touch of a button.
• View what is available on your support and maintenance schedule.
• Reference to the Customer Support Charter at any time.
• View the status of your Technical Support cases.
• View all purchased Professional Services like Training and Consultancy.
Figure 1 - Customer Support Portal
For the Hexagon Customer Portal visit customers.ps.hexagonmi.com
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ALPHACAM esupport
Another location to gain valuable information about using the software or asking other experienced users for
assistance are the esupport forums.
Figure 2 - esupport page
Asking a question of the community, using the knowledge base or other available information links could save
you time if you have a problem that someone else may already have supplied a solution for.
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Nesting
Nesting is the ability to add one or multiple components and arrange them on a sheet of material in such a way
as to allow a cutter path between them in the most advantages way.
Nesting can;
• Fit the maximum number of a single component on a sheet of material.
• Fit multiple differing components onto one or more sheets of material.
The sheets of material can be of differing XY sizes and shapes.

ALPHACAM Nesting also allows manual placement of some components prior to automatic placements of the
rest of the components to be nested.
The components to be nested can be preselected from the drawing folders or be selected from the drawing
screen at the time of nesting.
Automatic Nesting defaults will always place the largest components on the sheet first, because the larger the
component potentially the larger the aperture that may be present, as the nesting algorithms will try to fit
smaller components into the waste areas of the bigger components.
There are currently two algorithms used to calculate the best yield from the sheet material. Because the new
algorithm and the original algorithm use different methodologies in the mathematical calculations the two
algorithms are both present in the software. In certain circumstances, the original algorithm can provide a
better yield than the new algorithm; however, the new algorithm is significantly quicker at processing.
There are 4 methods of nesting:
• Vero Nesting
A more advanced nesting engine.
• True Shape:
For components that are various shapes non-rectangular.
• Rectangular:
For components that are primarily rectangular.
• Manual:
For any components where the operator rotates and places the components on the sheet material.
The component drawings to be nested can contain tool paths as the nesting process can filter the items to
nest.
• Tool paths:
• Geometries:
• Tool paths and Enclosing Geometries:
Multi Thickness Components cannot be nested on the same sheet material.

Some of the nesting options are specifically related to the machining tool paths, for
details of these options the use of the Help file is recommended.
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Nesting Options
Nesting options can be accessed via the NESTING tab.
 The only options available to the Essential level of the software is Nesting and Manual
Nest can only be accessed via the Nesting tab. Follow this link to the correct section in the
training manual Nesting in Essential
Allows you to compile a listing of all available sheet sizes in use and off cuts
Sheet available for use. It is the responsibility of the user to maintain this database, it
Database is not automatically updated from the nesting routine.
Allows the user to compile lists of items to be nested from directory locations on
a pc or network. These lists can then be stored for re-uses over again on
New Nest List
repeat orders, saving time in not having to rebuild the nests manually.
Allows prebuilt listings of parts to be nested to be loaded into the Nesting set
Load Nest up. This information is held in a text file previously created in ALPHACAM, or it
can be written manually, once all the parameters within a nest list have been
List identified and understood.
Commences the Nesting options dialogues to place the parts onto the required
Nest Parts sheet material.
Allows the user to create their own nesting patterns without using any of the
Manual Nest automated processes.
Nesting Identifies all the parts and quantities within a single nested sheet. This
information can be printed for reference during manufacture if required.
Information
Allows the user to define a lower size of panel that can be saved as a sheet
Save Off Cut size for later use. This sheet size and quantity is added to the Sheet Database.
Define Sheets Allows the definition of a sheet size and a specific area the items declared as
Small Parts will be nested into. This does not preclude large items from being
and Small
nested in the area but small parts have priority.
Part Zones
Define Sheets Allows the definition of a sheet size and a specific area the will never be nested
and No-Nest into. A practical application would be a weak vacuum area on the table.
Zones
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Manual Nesting
Select FILE > Open and navigate “….\ALP TRG 112 2D Machining 2020\Examples\Nesting
Drawings\” folder and open “Manual Nesting”
Figure 3 - Sample file used in all examples
Select NESTING > Manual Nesting
Figure 4 – Manual Nesting option choice dialogue
Nesting 3
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Items to be Nested
In this example we only have Geometries available, so this will be the option we will select.
Figure 5 - Option set to Geometries only
Nesting Parameters
This value sets the clearance between one part and its neighbouring parts.
Should there already be toolpaths on the part to be nested, the gap value is only
Minimum Gap the clearance required.
Between Paths If the part is only Geometries, the value is the diameter of the largest tool profiling
around the part plus the clearance.
This value allows for a stand in from the edge of the material to account for
Gap at Sheet Edge nonuniform edges or potential damaged sections of a sheet.
This option applies an extra clearance value to the part only when toolpaths
already exist on the chosen part, and where a ramping style Lead-In would foul a
Extra Gap at Lead- neighbouring item.
In Start Nesting only Geometries will never have this extra clearance added so care must
be taken if you apply toolpaths after Nesting.
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Select the options as shown below in the dialogue box.
Figure 6 - Manual Nesting Parameters
<LClick> [OK] to continue.

The command line will display
Figure 7 - Pick your shape to Nest
<LClick> on the outer edge of geometry 1 and the geometry will be displayed on the cursor with the minimum
gap geometry shown.
Figure 8 - Square Selected
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Move the cursor onto the sheet rectangle when the part is positioned in the corner it will turn red when it is
positioned up to its limits.
Figure 9 - Manual positioning of the chosen part
Position item 1 into the 4 corner positions as shown below, then <RClick>.
Figure 10 - Items placed where required manually

<RClick> to finish the command.
Finishing the command means that if you select undo after positioning item 2 these positions will not be
affected.
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gap geometry shown. Move the cursor onto the sheet rectangle as position the parts as shown below if you
zoom in you will see that you can position item 3 inside item 1, then <RClick>.
Figure 11 - Second item placed accordingly

affected.
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gap geometry shown. Move the cursor onto the sheet rectangle as position the part as shown below. For the
second part pressing <F2> allows you to rotate the part.
 Pressing [F3] activates Ortho mode which restricts the rotation to 90° intervals.
Figure 12 - Triangle part placed as drawn
Figure 13 - Triangle part placed using rotation options
Place part 3 as shown above rotating the part each time, then <RClick> to finish.
Nesting 8
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affected.

gap geometry shown. Move the cursor onto the sheet rectangle as position the part on the sheet. For the
second part pressing <F2> allows you to rotate the part.
Fill the rest of the sheet with part 4.
 Pressing <F3> activates Ortho mode which restricts the rotation to 90° intervals.
Figure 14 - Final part placed using the rotation options to complete the nest
Nesting 9
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Area Estimate
To see the efficiency of this nest, select NESTING > Area Estimate > Nested Sheet
<LClick> on the edge of the sheet.
Figure 15 - Nested Sheet to analyse
<RClick> to finish the selection and the Area Estimate dialogue is displayed.
Figure 16 - Analysing the sheet for efficiency
Manual nesting can take some considerable time, with many iterations to finalise the nest.
Save this drawing with a suitable name.
Nesting 10
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Nesting in Essential
Using NESTING > Nesting
You are prompted to select a number of options prior to manually selecting your items from the current active
drawing.
 The drawing MUST contain All parts to be Nested and the geometry that represents the
material to nest into.
Nesting Method
Figure 17 - Nesting Method drop down list
Most useful for regular shaped items where a

Rectangular bounding rectangle is the basis for the nested
Nesting part regardless of its actual shape.
Creates a more inclusive nest for irregular

True Shape shaped items where they can be nested around
Nesting each other regardless of their shape.
Use Original An older version of the Nesting algorithm that

may still be useful in certain cases.
Nester
The latest version of the Nesting algorithm that is

very similar to the True Shape options but with
Vero Nesting slight variations on the options and a better
quality of sheet usage.
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Items to be Nested
Figure 18 - Items to be nested options
In the following example we will only be using the  Geometries option
Define Part Parameters

Common Options
Regardless of which method of Nesting you choose from the drop down option, certain sections are common
to all of the dialogue boxes.
Figure 19 - Common options on all dialogues
Allows you to identify each component individually and in higher modules is the
Name of part name assigned to the listing that is shown in the Nesting Project Manager page.
Fills a single sheet with as many of the chosen item as can fit. Then will run this
Maximum Possible pattern across however many sheets you choose to run the nest across.
 [Value] Places the stated value of parts onto as many sheets as required.
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Specific Options
Depending on the option choices made from the Nesting Method drop down, one of the following dialogues will
displayed.
Rectangular Nesting
Figure 20 - Rectangular Nesting options
 Allow rotation by
Rectangular Nesting can only allow a part to be rotated by ± 90° using either the  90 or  270 options.
 Limit number on each sheet

Allows you to specify how many of a chosen part you wish to place on each piece of sheet material.
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True Shape Nesting
Figure 21 - True Shape Nesting options
Rotations to try
More flexible than Rectangular Nesting, True Shape Nesting allows for a more varied method of rotation
using the drop down listing.
Figure 22 - True Shape Nesting Rotation Options
If a grain structure is important, then one of the rotation angles could be used if the part is not drawn in grain
direction. If it is, then use the Don’t rotate option.
If a material without a grain structure is used, for example MDF, then the Any Angle option could be used.
 Try Mirrored Shape

Very similar to a 180° rotation method but using a mirror function to achieve the same type of result.
It should be noted though that if there are sections of the part that “hand” it, then the Mirrored option should not
be used.
A good example would be engraved lettering, this would be written back to front if this option were used.
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 Define as Small Part

This option can allow certain settings to be used on the Nesting options that are only performed on parts
defined as small.
Priority
The order of nesting can be affected by using this setting.
Any item with a Priority of 1 will be nested before any others, then those listed with a Priority of 2, then 3 etc
through to 10.
Kit Number
This option is a type of grouping process where all items with the same Kit Number are attempted to be nested
on the same sheet or spread across sheets but then having those sheets next to each other in the final listing.
The reasoning is to allow parts of one item to be coming off the machine together to allow final assembly to
happen quicker.
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Use Original Nester
Figure 23 - Use Original Nester Options
Rotations to try
More flexible than Rectangular Nesting, Use Original Nester allows for a more varied method of rotation using
specific selections.
Instead of using an Any Angle option as seen in True Shape Nesting, Use Original Nester allows you to enter
a specific angle value instead or use a specified set of angle values.

be used.
 Try Rotated Part First

If using the angle options, and a part will fit better using the angled option, then this command will place a
higher priority to those parts that have been rotated.
Priority
through to 10.
 Limit Number on each sheet to

Sets up a specific requirement on how many of a part you wish to have nested on a single sheet.
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Vero Nesting
Figure 24 - Vero Nesting Options
Vero Nesting options are exactly the same as used on True Shape Nesting, it is only the placement algorithm
that differs between the two strategies.
Part Selection
Once you have made your option choices for which ever method of Nesting you are using, the process for
selecting the parts to nest is the same as detailed in the Manual Nesting section.
<LClick> or window drag around the first item to be nested and depending on the method of nesting chosen,
one of the previous dialogues will be shown.
Enter your required values and information, then <LClick> [OK].
<LClick> or window you next item and repeat the process until all of your parts have been selected.
 Note, do not be tempted to window around all of your parts at once as this will be
treated as a single entity and may not be nested as the area covered by the multiple parts
could be larger than your sheet.
 Also, the spacing between them as drawn would be maintained.
Once all of your parts to nest have been selected, <RClick> to continue to the next section of the process.
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Sheet Selection
Once you have made your choices of parts to nest, you will then be prompted to select the shape of the sheet
to Nest into.
Figure 25 - Sheet choice in Essential Nesting
<LClick> on the shape that represents the material and you will then be offered the following options.
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Sheet Parameters
Figure 26 - Sheet Parameters in Essential
How Many of these Sheets
The How Many option allows you to state exactly the number of sheets that you wish to use on the nesting run
or leave the option at 0.
Having a definite value will allow the nest to run until the nest is complete or that value of sheets is reached at
which time the nest will stop.
With a value set to zero, the nest will run until all the required quantities have been nested and you will be
presented with the number of sheets you will need to complete the nest.
This second method is useful for ordering the required amount of sheets for a job.
Sheet Thickness
Some machines require a thickness of material to allow them to understand whereabouts in the machines
working envelope the parts are situated. If your machine needs a Work Volume applying to your machining,
then you will need to enter a value.
Sheet Material
This drop down listing will allow you to choose the specific material you will be machining the parts from.
In some manufacturing processes this material will be used to calculate the correct feeds and speed for the
processing.
In others it may be used for identification purposes when generating printed reports to be sent with cut lists or
processing orders to the machine operator.
<LClick>[OK] to continue and you will be asked for the next piece of geometry that represents a sheet shape.
Repeat the above process for as many differing sheets you will be using, once there are no more sheets to
select, <RClick> to proceed to the next section.
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Settings
Depending on the method of Nesting selected at the start of the process, you will be offered one of the
following Settings pages which will allow you to define the options to be applied to the sheet material or parts
during the nesting process.
Rectangular Nesting
Rectangular Nesting offers two methods of machining.
 For Space  For Cuts
Figure 27 - Rectangular Nesting set to  For Space Figure 28 - Rectangular Nesting set to  For Cuts
Setting the option to  For Space will attempt to nest Setting the option to  For Cuts will line the parts
the parts to gain the best yield from the sheet so that a saw could be used either along the X or Y
axis to reduce the machining time.
NC Code
Depending on the options available within your Post Processor and the machine control, the NC code output
for the Nested sheet can either be:
Each Nested Sheet has its own unique NC program created and these programs
 Subroutines are then loaded and run as individual items or can be called from a single main
program such as the MIX files used on SCM machines.
A single NC program is produced for the complete nested sheet run and this is
 Linear the single program that is run with a Program Stop of the required type applied at
the end of each sheet so that the operator can remove and reload the machine,
then continue the same program.
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Optimisation Level
The two sliders on this section will allow the nesting routine to work towards a better nest with regards towards
less sheet waste by moving the slider towards the Nest option.
To achieve better quality offcuts, moving the slider towards Sheet will prioritise the sheet over the quality of the
nest.
The Min/Max slider dictates the quality of the optimisation process relevant to the Sheet or Nest option slider.
Cut Direction
Allows the user to select a specific direction for the parts to be aligned if a fixed axis saw is being used  In X
or  In Y, or to allow the nest to be created across the sheet to suit a sawing head that has rotational
capabilities and to generate the nest which allows the best use of a non-fixed sawing head by using the 
Automatically choose optimal direction option.
Options
Figure 29 - Rectangular Nesting gap options
This value allows for a stand in from the edge of the material to
account for nonuniform edges or potential damaged sections of a
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
This value sets the clearance between one part and its neighbouring
parts.
Minimum Gap Between around Should there already be toolpaths on the part to be nested, the gap
value is only the clearance required.
parts If the part is only Geometries, the value is the diameter of the largest
tool profiling around the part plus the clearance.
Only available when the  For Cuts option is active, this setting
allows for the width of the saw blade to be entered so that the
Cut Width
correct spacing for the nest can be achieved.
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True Shape Nesting
Figure 30 - True Shape Nesting Options
NC Code
Each Nested Sheet has its own unique NC program created and these programs are
 Subroutines then loaded and run as individual items or can be called from a single main program
such as the MIX files used on SCM machines.
A single NC program is produced for the complete nested sheet run and this is the
 Linear single program that is run with a Program Stop of the required type applied at the end
of each sheet so that the operator can remove and reload the machine, then continue
the same program.
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Sheet Order
Figure 31 - Sheet Ordering options
Using this option will select the sheets in an order to nest that will achieve the
 Best Utilisation best results in the least amount of sheet usage, irrespective of the picked order
of full, half or off cut sheets.
 Picked Order This method uses the sheets in the order that they were selected on the screen.
Pack To
Figure 32 - Packing options
These options allow for the placement on the sheet depending on how you wish to use the sheet.
For the four corner options, an imaginary line is drawn across the diagonal corners and the nesting is set using
this line as a guide.
The four side options have an imaginary line drawn perpendicular to the chosen side and the nest uses this
line as a guide.
The  Custom Angle allows for a user defined value to be entered.
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The following images will explain the settings better.
Top Left Top
Top Right Right
Bottom Right Bottom
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Bottom Left Left
Custom Angle
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Options
Figure 33 - True Shape Nesting Gap Options
parts.
Should there already be toolpaths on the part to be nested, the gap
Minimum Gap Between Paths value is only the clearance required.
If the part is only Geometries, the value is the diameter of the largest
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
This option applies an extra clearance value to the part only when
toolpaths already exist on the chosen part, and where a ramping
style Lead-In would foul a neighbouring item.
Extra Gap at Lead-In Start
Nesting only Geometries will never have this extra clearance added
so care must be taken if you apply toolpaths after Nesting.
The amount of elapsed time used to create the nest. This time value
Time per Sheet (Seconds) is applied to every sheet in the nest.
This is a default value for an imaginary grid over which the nest is
Search Resolution
laid out during the processing.
(info only)
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Use Original Nester
Figure 34 – Use Original Nester Options
NC Code
the same program.
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Pack To
line as a guide.

Top Left Top
Top Right Right
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Bottom Right Bottom
Bottom Left Left
Custom Angle
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Options
Figure 36 – Use Original Nester Gap Options
This is an imaginary grid over which the nest is laid out during the
Search Resolution processing. The larger the number, the worse the nesting will be.
parts.
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
Time per Sheet (Seconds)
is applied to every sheet in the nest.
(info only)
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Vero Nesting
Figure 37 – Vero Nesting Options
NC Code
the same program.
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Sheet Order
Pack To
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Top Left Top Right
Bottom Left Bottom Right
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Options
Figure 40 - Vero Nesting Gap Options
parts.
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
The number of seconds allotted to run the entire nest, whether this is
Total Computation Time 1 or a Thousand sheets.
When nesting within apertures, having this option active will place
the internal part equally within the aperture.
 Evenly Spaced Parts Not active, the internal part will be nested according to the Pack To
options and will be placed closer to one corner of the aperture.
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Extensions
This tab on the Nesting dialogue includes many differing options that can assist you in the nesting process.
This is a common tab for all the options explained so far.
Figure 41 - Nesting Extensions
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The following section describes the list of Special Functions and their uses within the Nesting set up dialogue
option.
This option allows manual intervention by opening the Manual Nesting

Assisted Nest dialogue to allow you to take control of the nesting process.
This option attempts to connect the outermost toolpaths of nested parts

by creating bridging cuts between nearby parts. This reduces the amount
of time the tool spends feeding into and out of material. The width of the
bridges can be adjusted by clicking on the Configure button below the
Bridged Nesting Special Functions checkboxes. Note that ALPHACAM will only attempt to
create bridges between the deepest, outside-tooled closed paths in the
nest; and only where a bridge can be added without passing over another
toolpath.
Cut Small Parts First Any nested parts defined as a Small Part will be machined first.
Reorders the operations so that the complete part is machined prior to

Cut Whole Part Together moving on to the next item.
Reorders all toolpaths to place the drilling cycle first, then any internal
Drill Then Cut Inner Paths First toolpaths before completing the outer toolpaths.
Places each individual part within the nest into its own unique Group, in
Group Each Part Separately the same manner as using the EDIT > Group command.
When used, this option places the nested parts further into the material
Leave Edge Gap Uncut so that the defined Gap at Sheet Edge becomes an uncut frame around
the parts.
Looks to the items that are similar in size and area and treats the
Merge Like Part Quantities calculations for the number of those parts as a single entity. This can
speed up the time taken to run the nesting calculations.
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With this option active, ALPHACAM will attempt to produce as few

variations in the nesting layouts as possible. This has the potential to
Minimise Sheet Patterns allow for sheet stacking on a waterjet type machine to allow the
processing of, for example, five stacked sheets but only running the
program once producing more parts in a single cycle.
With this option active, all of the first tool is run, then all of the second tool
etc. This reduces the time spent changing tooling and also the probability
Minimise Tool Changes of completed parts being ejected from the sheet if they are small and
completed first.
This option gives priority to those parts indicated as being a Small Part
Nest Small Parts First (True Shape Nesting Only), a Small Part Nest Zone must be set up on
the sheet in use. The default setting would be to nest large parts first.
Using the Configure button allows for the setting of a skin to keep any
defined Small Parts attached to the parent sheet. This removes the need
Onion Skin Small Parts to physically program a thin skin on the part originally A Small Part Zone
must be defined on the sheet to allow the nesting to be carried out.
Reorders all the toolpaths so that all identical parts are machined first
Order by Part before moving onto the next part in the sheet.
Allows for ease of multiplication of parts on a mass order. Instead of

working out the required quantities manually and ensuring that you nest
the required amount of parts, a single build of a complete item can be
nested and then using this option, the required total quantity of that
Part Quantity Multiplier complete item can then be entered and ALPHACAM will multiply all the
items by that amount to nest the correct quantity of parts.
This multiplier is full nest wide, so you cannot have differing quantities of
builds within the nest.
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ALPHACAM only understands through apertures, whereas the cross

section of the drawing may indicate a pocket or a raised section. This
Prevent Nesting in Apertures option allows you to disable the nester’s default behaviour of placing
small parts inside the apertures of larger parts.
Removes any previously created Grouping options during the geometry

Remove Groups creation process prior to nesting the parts.
This allows you to repeat the row or column of a nest. This is used when
Repeat First Row/Column the nest is being cut into strips (using the For Cuts option during
Rectangular Nesting)
An option designed for the use of knife cutting machines where the
effective sheet could be tens of metres in length. This option allows for
Roll Split the definition of a working area that the full length nest is broken down
into. Once a section has been cut, the knife machine will then position
more material into the working area and the cutting process will continue.
This option allows you to supress ALPHACAM’s final contour sorting

Supress Final Sort process after the nesting is complete.
With this option active, the complete nest sheet structure is drawn at the
Supress Redraw end of all processing rather than after each individual sheet has been
created.
ALPHACAM will attempt the nest using all rotating options declared
Try Rotated Part First on All Parts during the configuration of the nest.
During the configuration, you can name the parts, it is this option that is
Use Name Identifiers used when this function is set active, rather than a generated number
from the order the item was chosen.
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Example Patterns
Using a defined set of parameters, the following images will show the different nested sheets that would be
achieved with the differing option choices.
Gaining the best from your nesting routines will take time because there are so many different variations that
can occur simply by applying subtle changes.
Throughout the following examples the following values have been used.
A sheet size of 2440 x 1220.
Quantity of each part required is set to 50.
Minimum Gap between Paths = 6

We are nesting Geometries and Toolpaths so only the clearance value is necessary.
Gap at Sheet Edge = 10.
Extra Gap at Lead-In Start = 5.

This setting is only applied as and where required should a ramping lead-in clash with a neighbouring part.
For the Time options, the default 2 seconds and 30 seconds have been left unaltered depending on the
method of nesting chosen.
Listed with the images are the times taken from <LClick> [OK] on the Settings dialogue to the images being
drawn in ALPHACAM.
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Rectangular Nesting set to For Cuts
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =1.5 seconds
Rectangular Nesting set to For Space
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =23 seconds.
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True Shape Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =7 seconds
True Shape Nesting set to any angle Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active
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Use Original Nester set to 90° Rotations.
Use Original Nester set to 1° rotation.
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =3mins 32 seconds
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Vero Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active
Vero Nesting set to any angle and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active
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Nesting in all other levels
Sheet Database
When using Nesting there are two methods of setting the shape of the sheet to nest into, one is to have the
shape already drawn on screen and select it when prompted, the more informative option is to use the Sheet
Database.
The Sheet Database is a listing of all available materials you may be working with, along with the thickness
and sheet size relevant to your own needs.
Using NESTING > Sheet Database will open the database window.
Figure 42 - Sheet Database main window
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Figure 43 - Sheet Database commands
Add Material Type Allows the creation of a new Material for processing.
Delete Material Type Deletes the selected Material.
Allows the user to define various thicknesses of the selected

Add Thickness material type.
Allows the user to remove a specific thickness of the selected

Delete Thickness material type.
Allows for the creation of the various sizers of sheet used

Add Sheet during the processing.
Allows for the selection of on screen geometries to create a

Pick Sheet sheet definition, suitable for half sheets or offcuts for
example.
Rotate 90° Reassigns the sheet to an attitude from the created options,
anticlockwise.
Anticlockwise
Reassigns the sheet to an attitude from the created options,

Rotate 90° Clockwise clockwise.
Inserts the shape of the currently selected material sheet into

Insert sheet the active drawing.
Including “Small Part Zones” and “No Nest Zones”.
Delete Sheet Deleted the specified sheet size.
Import from Legacy DB Allows for the import of existing data from older databases to
be imported into the Automation Manager sheet database.
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Once a Material has been created, a Thickness can then be added.
Each thickness then has the relevant sheet sizes added to it.
Figure 44 - Example Sheet material listing
Each sheet can have additional options set to it which can be used to assist with the Nesting process such as
grain direction and nesting zones.
Figure 45 - Sheet specific settings
Figure 46 - Sheet grain direction settings
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Nest Parts
Select NESTING > Nest Parts
Figure 47 - Main Nest Parts dialogue
This is the main window from where all materials and parts are selected to add to the required Nest.
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Nest Parts Ribbon
Figure 48 - Nest Parts Ribbon
Allows you to browse your system for a folder location to

Add Part From File then add the file to the working list.
Allows for the selection of parts directly from the current

Add Part From Drawing active drawing.
Shows or Hides the part settings dialogue for quantity,

Show / Hide Part Parameters rotation, priority etc.
Opens the Sheet Database to allow selection of the sheet

Add Sheet From Database to nest into.
Allows for the selection of a sheet shape from the current

Add Sheet From Drawing active drawing.
Allows for all of the options to be used in the nesting

Settings process to be set and saved for future use.
Load Settings Loads a previously saved setting file.
 It should be noted that using the option Add Part From File will preclude the use of the
From Drawing option and vice versa.
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Settings
Using the Settings option allows you to set the options which will be used during the Nesting process.
Figure 49 - Nesting Settings dialogue
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General
The general tab allows you to select prebuilt settings files to save you time.
Figure 50 - Settings file options
From this section of the General tab you can;
• Load a previously saved settings file.
• Save the current parameters to a settings file.
• Pick a default file which will be used each time you use
Nest Parts
• Clear all setting information back to a default setting.
Select a name for the Nesting Settings file.
Set the selection options of what to Nest.
Figure 51 - Items to be Nested options.
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Set the method of nesting to use.
Figure 52 - Nesting method drop down options
Most useful for regular shaped items

Rectangular where a bounding rectangle is the basis for
the nested part regardless of its actual
Nesting shape.
Creates a more inclusive nest for irregular

True Shape shaped items where they can be nested
around each other regardless of their
Nesting shape.
Use Original An older version of the Nesting algorithm

they may still be useful in certain cases.
Nester
The latest version of the Nesting algorithm

that is very similar to the True Shape
Vero Nesting options but with slight variations on the
options and a better quality of sheet usage.
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Options
Depending on the method of Nesting selected at the start of the process, you will be offered one of the
following pages which will allow you to define the options to be applied to the sheet material or parts during the
nesting process.
Rectangular Nesting
Rectangular Nesting offers two methods of machining.
 For Space  For Cuts
Figure 53 - Rectangular Nesting set to  For Space Figure 54 - Rectangular Nesting set to  For Cuts
Setting the option to  For Space Setting the option to  For Cuts
will attempt to nest the parts to gain the best yield will line the parts so that a saw could be used either
from the sheet along the X or Y axis to reduce the machining time.
NC Code
the same program.
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Optimisation Level
The two sliders on this section will allow the nesting routine to work towards a better nest with regards towards
less sheet waste by moving the slider towards the Nest option.
To achieve better quality offcuts, moving the slider towards Sheet will prioritise the sheet over the quality of the
nest.
The Min/Max slider dictates the quality of the optimisation process relevant to the Sheet or Nest option slider.
Cut Direction
Allows the user to select a specific direction for the parts to be aligned if a fixed axis saw is being used  In X
or  In Y, or to allow the nest to be created across the sheet to suit a sawing head that has rotational
capabilities and to generate the nest which allows the best use of a non-fixed sawing head by using the 
Automatically choose optimal direction option.
Options
Figure 55 - Rectangular Nesting gap options
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
parts.
Minimum Gap Between around Should there already be toolpaths on the part to be nested, the gap
value is only the clearance required.
parts If the part is only Geometries, the value is the diameter of the largest
Only available when the  For Cuts option is active, this setting
allows for the width of the saw blade to be entered so that the
Cut Width
correct spacing for the nest can be achieved.
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True Shape Nesting
Figure 56 - True Shape Nesting Options
NC Code
the same program.
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Sheet Order
Pack To
line as a guide.
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Top Left Top
Top Right Right
Bottom Right Bottom
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Bottom Left Left
Custom Angle
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Options
Figure 59 - True Shape Nesting Gap Options
parts.
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
Time per Sheet (Seconds) is applied to every sheet in the nest.
This is a default value for an imaginary grid over which the nest is
Search Resolution
laid out during the processing.
(info only)
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Use Original Nester
Figure 60 – Use Original Nester Options
NC Code
the same program.
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Pack To
line as a guide.

Top Left Top
Top Right Right
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Bottom Right Bottom
Bottom Left Left
Custom Angle
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Options
Figure 62 – Use Original Nester Gap Options
This is an imaginary grid over which the nest is laid out during the
Search Resolution processing. The larger the number, the worse the nesting will be.
parts.
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
Time per Sheet (Seconds)
is applied to every sheet in the nest.
(info only)
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Vero Nesting
Figure 63 – Vero Nesting Options
NC Code
the same program.
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Sheet Order
Using this option will select the sheets in an order to nest that will achieve the best
 Best Utilisation results in the least amount of sheet usage, irrespective of the picked order of full,
half or off cut sheets.
Pack To
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Top Left Top Right
Bottom Left Bottom Right
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Options
Figure 66 - Vero Nesting Gap Options
parts.
Gap at Sheet Edge
sheet.
The number of seconds allotted to run the entire nest, whether this is
Total Computation Time 1 or a Thousand sheets.
When nesting within apertures, having this option active will place
the internal part equally within the aperture.
 Evenly Spaced Parts Not active, the internal part will be nested according to the Pack To
options and will be placed closer to one corner of the aperture.
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Extensions
This tab on the Nesting dialogue includes many differing options that can assist you in the nesting process.
This is a common tab for all the options explained so far.
Figure 67 - Nesting Extensions
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The following section describes the list of Special Functions and their uses within the Nesting set up dialogue
option.
This option allows manual intervention by opening the Manual Nesting

Assisted Nest dialogue to allow you to take control of the nesting process.
This option attempts to connect the outermost toolpaths of nested parts

by creating bridging cuts between nearby parts. This reduces the amount
of time the tool spends feeding into and out of material. The width of the
bridges can be adjusted by clicking on the Configure button below the
Bridged Nesting Special Functions checkboxes. Note that ALPHACAM will only attempt to
create bridges between the deepest, outside-tooled closed paths in the
nest; and only where a bridge can be added without passing over another
toolpath.
Cut Small Parts First Any nested parts defined as a Small Part will be machined first.
Reorders the operations so that the complete part is machined prior to

Cut Whole Part Together moving on to the next item.
Reorders all toolpaths to place the drilling cycle first, then any internal
Drill Then Cut Inner Paths First toolpaths before completing the outer toolpaths.
Places each individual part within the nest into its own unique Group, in
Group Each Part Separately the same manner as using the EDIT > Group command.
When used, this option places the nested parts further into the material
Leave Edge Gap Uncut so that the defined Gap at Sheet Edge becomes an uncut frame around
the parts.
Looks to the items that are similar in size and area and treats the
Merge Like Part Quantities calculations for the number of those parts as a single entity. This can
speed up the time taken to run the nesting calculations.
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With this option active, ALPHACAM will attempt to produce as few

variations in the nesting layouts as possible. This has the potential to
Minimise Sheet Patterns allow for sheet stacking on a waterjet type machine to allow the
processing of, for example, five stacked sheets but only running the
program once producing more parts in a single cycle.
With this option active, all of the first tool is run, then all of the second tool
etc. This reduces the time spent changing tooling and also the probability
Minimise Tool Changes of completed parts being ejected from the sheet if they are small and
completed first.
This option gives priority to those parts indicated as being a Small Part
Nest Small Parts First (True Shape Nesting Only), a Small Part Nest Zone must be set up on
the sheet in use. The default setting would be to nest large parts first.
Using the Configure button allows for the setting of a skin to keep any
defined Small Parts attached to the parent sheet. This removes the need
Onion Skin Small Parts to physically program a thin skin on the part originally A Small Part Zone
must be defined on the sheet to allow the nesting to be carried out.
Reorders all the toolpaths so that all identical parts are machined first
Order by Part before moving onto the next part in the sheet.
Allows for ease of multiplication of parts on a mass order. Instead of

working out the required quantities manually and ensuring that you nest
the required amount of parts, a single build of a complete item can be
nested and then using this option, the required total quantity of that
Part Quantity Multiplier complete item can then be entered and ALPHACAM will multiply all the
items by that amount to nest the correct quantity of parts.
This multiplier is full nest wide, so you cannot have differing quantities of
builds within the nest.
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ALPHACAM only understands through apertures, whereas the cross

section of the drawing may indicate a pocket or a raised section. This
Prevent Nesting in Apertures option allows you to disable the nester’s default behaviour of placing
small parts inside the apertures of larger parts.
Removes any previously created Grouping options during the geometry

Remove Groups creation process prior to nesting the parts.
This allows you to repeat the row or column of a nest. This is used when
Repeat First Row/Column the nest is being cut into strips (using the For Cuts option during
Rectangular Nesting)
An option designed for the use of knife cutting machines where the
effective sheet could be tens of metres in length. This option allows for
Roll Split the definition of a working area that the full length nest is broken down
into. Once a section has been cut, the knife machine will then position
more material into the working area and the cutting process will continue.
This option allows you to supress ALPHACAM’s final contour sorting

Supress Final Sort process after the nesting is complete.
With this option active, the complete nest sheet structure is drawn at the
Supress Redraw end of all processing rather than after each individual sheet has been
created.
ALPHACAM will attempt the nest using all rotating options declared
Try Rotated Part First on All Parts during the configuration of the nest.
During the configuration, you can name the parts, it is this option that is
Use Name Identifiers used when this function is set active, rather than a generated number
from the order the item was chosen.
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Loading Pre-Saved options

Using the various differing options will lead to a number of Settings files being created for different materials or
manufacturing methods.
Using the Load Settings command will allow you to quickly switch between these different settings by
loading in a new Settings file.
Adding Parts
Depending on your own preferred methods, one of two options can be used to add parts to the required nest.
Allows you to browse your system for a folder location to

Add Part From File then add the file to the working list.
Allows for the selection of parts directly from the current

Add Part From Drawing active drawing.
For the purpose of this tutorial we will be using the supplied parts.
For this method we need to use the Add Part From File command.
When you <LClick> on this command, a browser window will open allowing you to locate the files and either
individually or mass select items to the list.
It is worth noting that using the Show / Hide Part Parameters option can be useful at this stage.
If you make this command active by <LClick> on it, you will be presented with one of the following dialogue
windows depending on the choice of Nesting Method for the drop down.
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Show / Hide Parameters set to Active

Depending on the option choices made from the Nesting Method drop down, one of the following dialogues will
displayed.
Rectangular Nesting
Figure 68 - Rectangular Nesting options
 Allow rotation by
Rectangular Nesting can only allow a part to be rotated by ± 90° using either the  90 or  270 options.
 Limit number on each sheet

Allows you to specify how many of a chosen part you wish to place on each piece of sheet material.
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True Shape Nesting
Figure 69 - True Shape Nesting options
Rotations to try
More flexible than Rectangular Nesting, True Shape Nesting allows for a more varied method of rotation
using the drop down listing.
Figure 70 - True Shape Nesting Rotation Options
If a grain structure is important, then one of the rotation angles could be used if the part is not drawn in grain
direction. If it is, then the Don’t rotate option is to be used.
If a material without a grain structure is used, for example MDF, then the Any Angle option could be used.

be used.
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 Define as Small Part

This option can allow certain settings to be used on the Nesting options that are only performed on parts
defined as small.
Priority
through to 10.
Kit Number
This option is a type of grouping process where all items with the same Kit Number are attempted to be nested
on the same sheet or spread across sheets but then having those sheets next ot each other in the final listing.
The reasoning is to allow parts of one item to be coming off the machine together to allow final assembly to
happen quicker.
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Use Original Nester
Figure 71 - Use Original Nester Options
Rotations to try
More flexible than Rectangular Nesting, Use Original Nester allows for a more varied method of rotation using
specific selections.
Instead of using an Any Angle option as seen in True Shape Nesting, Use Original Nester allows you to enter
a specific angle value instead or use a specified set of angle values.

be used.
 Try Rotated Part First

If using the angle options, and a part will fit better using the angled option, then this command will place a
higher priority to those parts that have been rotated.
Priority
through to 10.
 Limit Number on each sheet to

Sets up a specific requirement on how many of a part you wish to have nested on a single sheet.
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Vero Nesting
Figure 72 - Vero Nesting Options
Vero Nesting options are exactly the same as used on True Shape Nesting, it is only the placement algorithm
that differs between the two strategies.
Show / Hide Parameters set to Active Important Note

For all of these options, the application of the settings depends on how you pick the required parts.
Should you select each part individually then the Define Part Parameters dialogue will appear for each
individual part as you add them
Mass picking using the <Shift> or <Ctrl> keys will only show the dialogue once and apply the options to all of
the parts you have picked.
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Finishing your selections

Once you have finished the process of selecting your Parts, <LClick> [Cancel] on the selection dialogue to
continue.
Figure 73 - Use Cancel to finish the process
Editing the options

If you have mass selected your parts and need to make adjustments, for example to the quantities or rotation
options, <RClick> on an entry in the list and select Configure option.
Figure 74 - Configure a parts options
The corresponding Part Definition dialogue will open depending on your choice from the Nesting Method drop
down selector.
You can now make adjustments based on the options available.
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Sheet Selection
Depending on your preferred method, you can either;
• Add Sheet From Database
• Add Sheet From Drawing
If you wish to select the bottom option, this should have been created prior to commencing the nesting process
as the Nesting dialogue will hide and you will be requested to pick the geometry from the current drawing.
Figure 75 - Using the From Screen option
Using the Database option will open the Sheet Database dialogue and allow you to pick from your list of
materials.
Figure 76 - Using the From Database option
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Sheet Parameters when using From Screen
Figure 77 - Sheet Parameters using From Screen
How Many of these Sheets
The How Many option allows you to state exactly the number of sheets that you wish to use on the nesting run
or leave the option at 0.
Having a definite value will allow the nest to run until the nest is complete or that value of sheets is reached at
which time the nest will stop.
With a value set to zero, the nest will run until all the required quantities have been nested and you will be
presented with the number of sheets you will need to complete the nest.
This second method is useful for ordering the required number of sheets for a job.
Sheet Thickness
Some machines require a thickness of material to allow them to understand whereabouts in the machines
working envelope the parts are situated. If your machine needs a Work Volume applying to your machining,
then you will need to enter a value.
Sheet Material
This drop down listing will allow you to choose the specific material you will be machining the parts from.
In some manufacturing processes this material will be used to calculate the correct feeds and speed for the
processing.
In others it may be used for identification purposes when generating printed reports to be sent with cut lists or
processing orders to the machine operator.
<LClick>[OK] to continue and you will be asked for the next piece of geometry that represents a sheet shape.
Repeat the above process for as many differing sheets you will be using, once there are no more sheets to
select, <RClick> to proceed to the next section.
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Sheet Parameters when using From Database
Figure 78 - Sheet Parameters using From Database
The dialogue window allows you to rearrange the order of the sheets in the listing using the up and down
pointing arrows. This is only used if the option  Picked Order has been set in the previous dialogue options.
If  Best Utilisation is set, the order in this does not matter.
Using the <RClick> Configure option, will allow you to set the number of available sheets for the Nesting run.
Figure 79 - Sheet Parameters using From Database
The sheet depiction icons allow for the following;
Reset the selected sheet back to the original database quantity
Reset all sheets on the listing back to their original database quantities
<LClick> [Nest] to run the process.
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Example Patterns
Using a defined set of parameters, the following images will show the different nested sheets that would be
achieved with the differing option choices.
Gaining the best from your nesting routines will take time because there are so many different variations that
can occur simply by applying subtle changes.
Throughout the following examples the following values have been used.
A sheet size of 2440 x 1220.
Quantity of each part required is set to 50.
Minimum Gap between Paths = 6

We are nesting Geometries and Toolpaths so only the clearance value is necessary.
Gap at Sheet Edge = 10
Extra Gap at Lead-In Start = 5

This setting is only applied as and where required should a ramping lead-in clash with a neighbouring part.
For the Time options, the default 2 seconds and 30 seconds have been left unaltered depending on the
method of nesting chosen.
Listed with the images are the times taken from <LClick> [OK] on the Settings dialogue to the images being
drawn in ALPHACAM.
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Rectangular Nesting set to For Cuts
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =1.5 seconds
Rectangular Nesting set to For Space
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =23 seconds.
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True Shape Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active
True Shape Nesting set to any angle Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active
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Use Original Nester set to 90° Rotations.
Use Original Nester set to 1° rotation.
Time taken to generate and draw the nest =3mins 32 seconds
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Vero Nesting set to 90° Rotations and Prevent Nesting in Apertures not active
Vero Nesting set to any angle and Prevent Nesting in Apertures active
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Nesting Project Manager

 The Nesting Project Manager page is not available in Essential levels of ALPHACAM.
Figure 80 - Sample Nesting Project Manager page
From the Nesting Project Manager, you are able to set up Nest Lists, Nest Parts and Manually Nest parts as
describes already in this manual.
When parts are added to you Nest via selecting from screen or using the From File option, they are listed in
the Project Manager and show the name of the part and the quantity required.
Using the <RClick> menu on a listed part will offer the following options.
Figure 81 - Nesting Project Manager <RClick> options
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Opens the part configuration dialogue to set quantity, rotation

Configure options etc.
Closes the currently active ALPHACAM drawing and opens the

Edit Part selected part for editing.
Allows the user to manually place this part to a user defined

Manually Nest Part location.
Cut Removes the part from the current List.
Copy Copies the part for further use.
Delete Permanently deletes the part form the list, not from your computer.
Paste Pastes the Cut or Copied item to the chosen location on the list.
Paste As New List Pastes the Cut or Copied item to a brand new Nest List.
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Sheet Options
In some instances of Nesting there may be requirements for locating parts in certain areas of a sheet, for
example, you may wish to locate small items towards the front of the bed to allow ease of removal after
machining.
You may consider that some areas of the machine vacuum are not suitable for locating certain parts or there
maybe damage to areas of a sheet that cannot be used and so need to be excluded.
To assist in both scenarios there are two commands that can prove beneficial to the nesting process
• Define Sheets and Small Part Zones.
• Define Sheets and No-Nest Zones
For the Small Part Zones option, there could possibly be a need to only define a single specific sheet to
represent the size and areas where it is suitable for any parts defined as small to be located.
More involved would be the No-Nest Zones as this would need a new drawing creating for each damaged
sheet to be used, care would be needed to ensure that the section to not be used for nesting as located
correctly to attain maximum yield from the damaged item.
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Define Sheets and Small Part Zones

The only Nesting Methods that Small Part Zones can be used with are True Shape Nesting or Vero Nesting.
Select FILE > Open and navigate to “….\ALP TRG 112 2D Machining
2020\Examples\Drawings\Nesting Drawings\” folder and open “Define sheets and Small Part Zones”
Figure 82 - Define Sheets and Small Parts Zones sample file
The smaller rectangle to the lower left corner of the sheet will be the area to nest the small parts into.
Select NESTING > Define Sheets and Small Parts Zones

You are first prompted to choose the actual sheet, <LClick> on the largest rectangle.
Figure 83 - Setting the sheet
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Then you will be asked to choose the area(s) to locate small parts.
Figure 84 - Setting the Small Part Zone
You have the option to continue selecting more small part zones should you need to, if you have created them
on your working drawing of the sheet.
<RClick> to finish choosing small part zones, then <RClick> again to finish choosing sheets to nest into.
 Once again if you were using half sheets or off cuts, you would need to draw these as
well and set up the required zones to suit.
Figure 85 - Small Part Zone defined
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Adding to the Sheet Database

When creating a Material/Sheet structure directly in the Sheet Database dialogue, there is no method to edit
the sheets to include a No Nest Zone.
All sheets that need to include such an area must be drawn first and then using the Sheet Database ribbon
command Pick Sheet you will be prompted to select the shape of the sheet and any No Nest Zones to
be included.
Figure 86 - Adding a No Nest Zone sheet to the Sheet Database
<LClick> as shown above, the <RClick> to finish.
The sheet will now be listed in the database with the requisite information.
Figure 87 - Sheet Database information
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Part Settings for Small Part Zone Use

Using either the True Shape Nesting method or Vero Nesting method, making the
 Define as Small Part option active on any part will place the part in the designated area.
Figure 88 - Define as Small Part option
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The nesting process will begin and the progress dialogue will be displayed.
Figure 89 - Completed nest with small parts sorted as required
Notice how all the items marked as small are located within the specified area, though this would not
prevented large parts from also nesting in the same location.
The Small Part Zone just allows preference to those items marked as small.
Using the Vero nesting option is the simplest method of attaching the small definition.
Save your drawing with a suitable name.
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Define Sheets and No-Nest Zones

Select FILE > Open and navigate to “….\ALP TRG 112 2D Machining 2020\Examples
\Drawings\Nesting Drawings\” folder and open “Define sheets and No-Nest Zones”
Figure 90 - Sample file for Define Sheet and No Nest Zone
This drawing has had an image of the damaged panel added to it using the command
HOME > Input Image

This allows for a more accurate method of excluding areas of a damaged sheet.
Before selecting NESTING > Define Sheets and No-Nest Zones you will need to create enough
geometries around the simulated scratches and water damaged corner section.
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Figure 91 - Sample damaged image with controlling geometries created
 When creating the boundaries for the No Nest zones, the boundaries MUST be
contained within the sheet geometry. Any boundaries which exit the shape of the sheet will
be ignored.
 Boundaries can run along the exact edges of the sheet as shown by the area to the
bottom left of the above image.
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Select NESTING > Define Sheets and No-Nest Zones

You are first prompted to choose the actual sheet as we have done through all the nesting examples,
<LClick> on the largest rectangle.
Then you will be asked to choose the area(s) to prevent nesting of parts.
Figure 92 - Select the No Nest zones
<LClick> the damaged area markers of the main sheet.
Figure 93 - Identifying the No Nest Zones
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<RClick> to finish choosing the No-Nest zones, then <RClick> again to finish choosing sheets to nest into.
 Once again if you were using half sheets or off cuts, you would need to draw these as
well and set up the required zones to suit, should they be damaged.
Now you have your sheet defined, and the area in which any items defined as small will be located.
Figure 94 - No Nest Zones identified
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Creating a new nesting list and running the process using the Add Sheet From Drawing
Command will produce the following or similar result depending on the options chosen.
Figure 95 - Resulting No Nest Zone after processing
Notice how the damaged areas to the bottom left have been ignored and the nesting has worked around them.
Usually you will be creating these types of drawings a single items with the number of the sheets set to 1,
unless you have the unfortunate issue of multiple damaged panels or sheets of material.
Figure 96 - Only a single damaged sheet to run
The use of these two options Small Part Zones and No Nest Zones can be combined; you are not restricted
to using one or the other.
The Small Part Zone just allows preference to those items marked as small,
whilst the No-Nest Zones would prevent both large and small items from being nested where damage has
occurred.
Save your drawing with a suitable name.
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Support Tags and Bridging

Depending on the requirements of your Nesting, you may wish to add links to maintain the parts location using
the options for Support Tags.
Support Tags can be added in differing manners depending on the requirements of the process.
• Before Nesting – Adding the Support tags prior to the nesting process can allow you to place the tags
in a defined location on an individual part. Using this method, you would need to ensure a frame
remains around all of your parts to support the items being machined.
• After Nesting – Adding the Support tags after the Nest has been created allows for less waste
between the parts but means you need to add the tags manually to each sheet depending on the
outcome of the nest run.
• Bridged Nesting – A tick box option in the Nesting Parameters which creates a single continuous
toolpath around the parts.
• Join Parts with Bridge – Using this method physically alters the geometry of the completed Nest to
create a single geometry that the tool will follow. Using this method is only available in Advanced and
higher modules of ALPHACAM.
The methods of applying the tags either before or after Nesting are the same, it all depends on your
requirements during the processing of your parts.
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Adding support Tags

The first two methods of adding Support Tags allows you to physically alter the toolpaths to suit your
manufacturing needs.
Using MACHINE > Edit Machining > Add Support Tags allows for the addition of basic support tags
based on a thickness of tag required and an overall length.
Figure 97 - MACHINE > Edit Machining > Add Support Tags
Using the <RClick> context menu on a toolpath allows for the direct addition of Automatic Support Tags.
Figure 98 - Automatic Support Tag menu option
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Using the Edit Machining method

Once a toolpath has been applied to the parts you are able to use the
MACHINE > Edit Machining > Add Support Tags method to apply your support tags to dedicated
locations.
Figure 99 - Using the Edit Machining method
<LClick> on the Add Support Tags option to display the tag dialogue box.
Figure 100 - Add Support Tags dialogue
The tag type can be;
 Flat A Flat tag is generated by the tool lifting to the Tag Top value from its current machining
depth.
A Ramp tag is generated by the tool lifting to the Tag Top value over half of the Tag
 Ramp Length. The angle will vary depending on the thickness required and the length value
used.
The Tag Size is set by entering a Tag Length value and a Tag Top value to control the thickness of the
support tag.
Once you have set the values for the Support Tag, <LClick> [OK] to continue.
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You will now be asked for a location for your Support Tag.
Figure 101 - Support Tag location
This location can be set using direct input in the X and Y dialogue boxes, <LClick> in your chosen location or
using the snap functions to place in an exact point of your choosing.
A word of caution, using this method will present you with this dialogue once you apply the first support tag.
Figure 102 - Edit Machining Support Tag Warning
Using this particular method of Support Tag creation will physically break the toolpath and you will not be able
to edit should the need arise due to manufacturing issues.
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Figure 103 - Added Support Tags
You can continue to add as many or as few tags as required, in the locations of your choice.
Once you have placed all the required Support Tags, <RClick> to complete the process.
 This particular method of tagging parts is more suited to specific locations for the tags
because you select the exact location for the tag to suit the support required or in locations
where the item will not be visible once assembled.
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Using the <RClick> method

The second method of adding Support Tags directly to a toolpath is to use the <RClick> context menu and
select the option Automatic Support Tags.
Figure 104 - Using the <RClick> method
Figure 105 - Automatic Support Tags dialogue
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Automatic Support tags must be made active using the  Apply Support Tags option.
Specify
Tags can be set by two options, how many or how far apart using the following option choices.
Figure 106 - Number of Tags
Figure 107 - Approximate Tag Interval
Limitations
Using the Limitations options, you can set parameters specific to your needs.
Figure 108 - Limitations options
Ignore corners if Angle is more than Sets an Angle value above which tags will not be placed on. If
set to 0, then a tag will never be placed on a corner
Sets a minimum value below which a tag will never be placed

Minimum Element Length
on.
Maximum Element Length Sets a maximum value over which no tag will be placed on.
Sets a minimum value above which a tag can be placed onto

Minimum Arc Radius
an arc type shape.
Set Active, will place the tag in the exact centre of the closest
 Centralise to Elements element of the geometry. Set this Inactive and the position is
determined by the Number or approximate interval
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Tag Type and Tag Size

These options control the thickness and slope of the required support tags.
Figure 109 - Tag Type and Size settings
The tag type can be;
 Flat A Flat tag is generated by the tool lifting to the Tag Top value from its current machining
depth.
 Ramp A Ramp tag is generated by the tool lifting to the Tag Top value over half of the Tag Length.
The angle will vary depending on the thickness required and the length value used.
Creates a combination of the above two settings using the Ramp Angle value to set the
Combined slope, then what remains will be a flat section.
The Tag Size is set by entering a Tag Length value and a Tag Top value to control the thickness of the
support tag and, if required, a dedicated slope angle for the ends of the tag.
Once you have set the values for the Support Tag, <LClick> [OK] to continue.
Figure 110 - Automatic Support tags added
Automatic Support Tags are added to the entire toolpath in one application, you do however retain the option
to Edit the toolpath once the tags are applied, but you do not have direct positional control on where the tags
are placed.
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Bridged Nesting
Bridged Nesting is a tick box option from the Nesting Parameters that you activate.
The toolpath is adjusted from the individual items applied to the nested parts into a single continuous toolpath
around all parts.
Bridged Nesting can only be applied at the Nesting Parameters stage to parts that already have toolpaths
applied to them, it cannot be applied to geometries only.
Figure 111 - Nesting Special Functions
Activating the Bridged Nesting options allows access to the [Configure] section where you can set either a
dedicated Bridge Width or  Use Tool Width.
Use Tool Width is the default setting.
Figure 112 - Bridge Nesting Configuration
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After creating the nested sheet, the toolpaths are automatically linked to give one continuous toolpath around
all the shapes on the panel.
Figure 113 - Bridged Nesting showing the links
This method of support is a pure automatic process and as such does not guarantee support for all of the parts
in the nest from start to finish.
You may have some parts cut completely at the very start due to the nature of the creation of the single
toolpath.
This Nesting option could better suit larger parts where support tags are not critical, but a single continuous
toolpath allows for a “Best of Both” scenario.
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Join Parts with Bridge

Where the previous section Bridged Nesting generated a single toolpath by manipulating the nested toolpaths,
Join Parts with Bridge physically alters the nested Geometries to produce a single geometric item that can
then have a toolpath added to it, creating a single cut around all parts.
In this image, you can see a generic nest of parts.
Figure 114 - Simple nested sheet
Applying toolpaths to this sheet would result in individual parts being produced and if they were cut it is
possible that, without the use of one of the three previous methods, some items may move during processing.
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Using GEOMETRY > Special Functions > Join Parts with Bridge will allow ALPHACAM to create a single
geometric for the outer profiles of all the parts on the nested sheet.
The only dialogue required is to set the width of the bridging geometry to suit your own needs.
Figure 115 - Bridge Parts width
Once you <LClick> [OK] to continue, you are asked for the location you wish to place the bridge.
Figure 116 - <LClick> for the first point to bridge
Figure 117 - Choose the second point
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Figure 118 - After applying the second point to bridge
Figure 119 - Example of many applied bridges
This method of tagging parts allows you to choose specific locations for the bridges but will not allow a bridge
to be created where it would divide the profile into two geometries.
This method must complete a single geometric form.
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Version amendments
V Amendment Description A Software Version Amended Date

8 Minor text formatting alterations. 1 2020.1 02/10/2019
8 Template altered to Hexagon branding 0 2020.0 15/03/2019
ALPHACAM 2020.1
Nesting
ALPHACAM
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No. One, Waterside Drive Email. alphacaminfo@hexagon.com
Arlington Business Park Web. www.alphacam.com
Theale
Reading Support. support.alphacam.uk@hexagon.com
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United Kingdom

ALP TRG 112 Nesting Supplement 2020.1

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ALP TRG 112 Nesting Supplement 2020.1

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ALPHACAM 2020.

Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

Conventions used in this manual.............................................................................................. xi

Recommended Operating Systems and Hardware for ALPHACAM ..................................... xii

Hexagon Customer Portal ........................................................................................................ xiii

ALPHACAM esupport ............................................................................................................... xiv

Manual Nesting ............................................................................................................................ 3

Nesting in Essential ................................................................................................................... 11

Use Original Nester ............................................................................................................... 11

Minimum Gap Between Paths .............................................................................................. 26

Nesting in all other levels.......................................................................................................... 44

Minimum Gap Between around parts ................................................................................... 53

Loading Pre-Saved options ...................................................................................................... 71

Nesting Project Manager ........................................................................................................... 86

Sheet Options ............................................................................................................................. 88

Support Tags and Bridging....................................................................................................... 99

FIGURE 52 - NESTING METHOD DROP DOWN OPTIONS 51

FIGURE 105 - AUTOMATIC SUPPORT TAGS DIALOGUE 104

Conventions used in this manual

Denotes a <LClick> or Primary Mouse Button Click.

 This is a note. It contains useful or additional information.

 This is a reference. It directs you to another part of the user guide.

 This is a highlighted note to emphasise information

 This is a warning; it contains information that you must not ignore.

 This is a tip. It is generally used in exercises and offers further advice.

1. This is the first line of a number list item

• The order is not important.

Recommended Operating Systems and Hardware for

Supported Operating Systems

• 64bit operating systems of the following list are supported,

• Windows 7 (Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate) SP1 required,

• Windows 8.1 Professional and Enterprise,

• Windows 10 Professional and Enterprise.

• Nvidia or ATI Open GL Graphics Card with 1Gb dedicated memory

ALPHACAM Minimum Specifications

Hexagon Customer Portal

• Unlimited user logins for your company.

• Access to all your licenses for easy reference.

• View what is available on your support and maintenance schedule.

• Reference to the Customer Support Charter at any time.

• View the status of your Technical Support cases.

• View all purchased Professional Services like Training and Consultancy.

Figure 1 - Customer Support Portal

For the Hexagon Customer Portal visit customers.ps.hexagonmi.com

Figure 2 - esupport page

• Fit the maximum number of a single component on a sheet of material.

• Fit multiple differing components onto one or more sheets of material.

The sheets of material can be of differing XY sizes and shapes.

• Tool paths and Enclosing Geometries:

Multi Thickness Components cannot be nested on the same sheet material.

Figure 3 - Sample file used in all examples

Select NESTING > Manual Nesting

Figure 4 – Manual Nesting option choice dialogue

Figure 5 - Option set to Geometries only

Select the options as shown below in the dialogue box.

Figure 6 - Manual Nesting Parameters

<LClick> [OK] to continue.

Figure 7 - Pick your shape to Nest

Figure 8 - Square Selected

Figure 9 - Manual positioning of the chosen part

Figure 10 - Items placed where required manually

The command line will display

Select NESTING > Manual Nesting