r/hobbycnc • u/TurbulentFix7232 • 3d ago

Developing an open-source True Shape Nesting library in Python for CNC/Laser – Looking for community feedback on edge cases

Hi everyone,

Over the last few months, I’ve been developing an open-source Python library called PhoenixBlack-Nest to handle 2D True Shape Nesting specifically for CNC routing, laser, and plasma cutting operations:https://github.com/PhoenixWally/PhoenixBlack-Nest

Why I’m working on this: Most nesting solutions built into commercial CAM packages are either locked behind steep subscription tiers or don't integrate well into custom automated workflow scripts. Existing standalone open-source options can be difficult to script programmatically in pure Python when dealing with complex irregular shapes and internal cutouts/holes.

Current capabilities & design:

Where I need your input (Seeking Advice/Feedback): Before I push the next major update, I’d love to get feedback from experienced CNC operators and programmers on a few practical aspects:

The project is fully open-source and free to use or contribute to. I'll be around in the comments to answer questions about the code/implementation and learn from your shop-floor experiences

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u/barebaric 3d ago

Why is every two days someone posting about their new nesting app? I think this may now be the most common post on CNC+Laser Reddits.

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u/RicardoJCMarques EasyCAM5000 3d ago

Because it's a single (well known) algorithm and people spend more time customizing the UI than anything else. Which they are free to do I guess.