Cut Nest Print is an automated solution designed to streamline the process of creating fabric patterns for clothing production. It allows shop administrators to compose production orders using the existing stock and delivery management interface, bypassing complex procedures and simplifying the entire workflow. The solution is integrated with the website, sharing a product database for efficiency.
Product Database Integration
The application shares the same product database used for stock and delivery administration, allowing the shop administrator to seamlessly use familiar interfaces to place production orders.
Adding Products to Orders
The administrator can add specific products to the production order, selecting items and sizes directly from the existing product database. This makes order management straightforward and avoids duplicating data entry.
Associated Pattern Details
Each product has associated patterns that need to be cut from fabric. These patterns are stored and managed within the application, allowing easy access when processing orders.
Pattern Tracing with OpenCV
Once an order is completed, all patterns associated with the products in the order are traced by the OpenCV library to convert them to SVG vector format. This process ensures high precision for subsequent pattern layout.
DeepNest Integration for Optimal Pattern Placement
The traced SVG files are passed to the DeepNest application. DeepNest has been modified to take input from a specified folder and export a JSON file containing coordinates, instead of an SVG file, after finding the most efficient placement for pattern details on the fabric.
Finding Optimal Pattern Layout
DeepNest's algorithm calculates the best arrangement for all pattern pieces to minimize fabric usage and reduce waste. When the optimal placement is found, DeepNest exports the layout information as a JSON file.
Final Production File Creation
Using the JSON file containing coordinates and rotation angles, the Cut Nest Print application places all patterns from the order into a final TIFF file ready for printing. The Pillow library is used to ensure precise placement, creating a production-ready fabric layout.
Uploading and Notification
Once the final TIFF file is generated, it is uploaded to the cloud. An email notification is automatically sent to the production team with a download link to access the file, ensuring a smooth transition from digital preparation to physical production.
Order Tracking and Management
The system allows administrators to track orders, including details such as fabric used, quantity, and production status, ensuring all aspects of production are effectively managed.
Cut Nest Print automates the traditionally manual and time-consuming process of arranging fabric patterns for production. This system uses OpenCV and DeepNest to ensure efficient pattern placement, drastically reducing fabric waste and production time. By integrating this solution into the existing Django-based shop management interface, Cut Nest Print simplifies order creation, optimizes the use of materials, and delivers fully prepared production files ready for printing.