What “proven optimal” and “feasible” mean in a cutting plan
OPTIMAL means the solver found a valid plan and proved no better plan exists for the submitted mathematical model and objective. FEASIBLE means the plan is valid, but the proof of optimality was not completed.
Updated: · Toreniva Cutwise technical reviewFour outcomes answer different questions
| Outcome | Valid cutting plan? | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| OPTIMAL | Yes | Valid plan with an optimality proof for the submitted model |
| FEASIBLE | Yes | Valid executable plan without a completed optimality proof |
| INFEASIBLE | No | The submitted constraints cannot all be satisfied |
| NO_SOLUTION | No | No validated plan was returned in the solve conditions |
Optimal is always relative to the model
An optimal result does not prove that every real production constraint was included. If clamp zones, defects, grain direction, batch separation or machine-specific rules are absent from the input model, the proof says nothing about them.
When a feasible plan is useful
For a large time-limited job, a validated feasible plan can still be operationally valuable. Compare its objective and material use with the current workshop baseline, retain the termination facts and decide whether the value of a stronger proof justifies more solve time.
- Verify that demand coverage and stock capacity checks passed.
- Review the objective, stock count and unused length.
- Confirm process assumptions before production.
- Do not relabel FEASIBLE as optimal in reports or customer claims.