Unlocking Space Potential with 3D Bin Packing Algorithms

3D Bin Packing Algorithm for Warehouse Cartonization
Published on May 19, 2024

Overview
This document outlines practical 3D bin packing (cartonization) algorithms implemented in C# for warehouse environments. These implementations prioritize minimizing the number of boxes, shipping cost, and maximizing space utilization while respecting orientation constraints and using fixed box sizes.

Recommended Libraries
1. 3DContainerPacking (EB-AFIT)

• C# library using the EB-AFIT heuristic.
• Supports fixed container sizes.
• Rotates items in all axis permutations by default.
• Fast and high utilization.
• Modify to restrict orientation if needed.
• Available via NuGet or GitHub.

2. Sharp3DBinPacking

• C# port of krris/3d-bin-packing.
• Supports multiple heuristics.
• Rotates items by default.
• Available via NuGet (Sharp3DBinPacking).
• Can be integrated into .NET applications.

Handling Constraints
Both libraries rotate items by default. To support orientation constraints:

• Modify the code to restrict rotation for specific items.
• Alternatively, encode items with equal dimensions to eliminate rotation variation.

Steps to integrate into a warehouse management system (WMS):

1. Define available cartons.
2. Collect order items and constraints.
3. Call the packer with item and carton data.
4. Use output (packed coordinates) for box generation or instruction.
5. Calculate shipping cost using box count and dimensions.

Performance and Trade-offs
These heuristics offer:

• Fast execution times (milliseconds to seconds).
• Near-optimal packing.
• Lightweight memory usage. Trade-offs include possible extra boxes due to heuristic nature.

Summary
3DContainerPacking and Sharp3DBinPacking are suitable for real-time cartonization in warehouse environments. They provide excellent speed and utility, and can be customized for orientation constraints and other packing rules.