How Binacle.Net Works - ChrisMavrommatis/Binacle.Net GitHub Wiki
Contents
Binacle.Net employs specialized algorithms and techniques to address different aspects of the bin packing problem. Below are the key sections:
Algorithms
In order to solve the Bin Packing problem in real time Binacle.Net employs heuristic algorithms.
First Fit Decreasing (FFD)
Binacle.Net utilizes a hybrid variant of the First Fit Decreasing algorithm, one of the most popular heuristic algorithms for bin packing problems. The algorithm sorts items by size and attempts to fit each one into the first space that can accommodate it.
While heuristic algorithms like FFD are not guaranteed to always find the perfect solution (i.e., 100% accuracy), Binacle.Net is designed to ensure that when it identifies that a bin is suitable, it will invariably accommodate all items. However, it's worth noting that due to its heuristic nature, there are instances where items might technically fit into a bin, but the algorithm may not recognize it as the best option.
This trade-off enables faster, real-time calculations while maintaining a high success rate for practical use cases.
Functions
Binacle.Net provides two core functions designed to meet different packing needs: Fitting and Packing.
Fitting
The Fitting function checks whether a specific set of items can fit into a predefined bin. This quick, real-time check is ideal for determining if all items in an order can be packed together before proceeding with checkout or shipping. The function returns a result that indicates which items fit and which do not, providing clear feedback on whether the bin is suitable.
Packing
The Packing function goes beyond basic fitting by not only determining which items fit, but also tracking the precise location of each item within the bin. If not all items can fit, the function will continue optimizing the arrangement to pack as many items as possible. It returns detailed information on which items were successfully packed, along with their exact positions, as well as which items could not be packed.
This is especially useful for optimizing space and providing step-by-step packing instructions, helping fulfillment teams package items more efficiently and accurately.
[!Note] Both the Fitting and Packing functions support multiple bins in a single request.
The API will return results for each bin in one response, reducing the need for multiple API calls and improving overall efficiency in your packing workflow.
Conclusion
By leveraging heuristic algorithms like First Fit Decreasing and offering both Fitting and Packing functions, Binacle.Net provides a robust, real-time solution for bin packing problems. These features enable fast and efficient packing, even if they sometimes trade off perfect accuracy for speed.
The Fitting function is ideal for quick validation, ensuring items fit in bins before proceeding with the order process, while the Packing function provides precise positioning, optimizing packing arrangements and space usage.
Both functions support handling multiple bins in one request, streamlining operations and reducing complexity. This flexibility makes Binacle.Net a practical tool for various packing and fulfillment scenarios, ensuring efficiency without sacrificing accuracy where it matters most.