This article explains the four calculation methods available in the Slab Optimizer module in MeasureSquare Stone. Each method determines the source of parts data that Slab Optimizer uses to calculate slab nesting and layout. Choose the method that best fits your workflow.

Slab Optimizer Calculation Methods

All four methods are accessible from the Slab Optimizer tab in the top navigation ribbon, under the Calculate group.

Method 1: Import Takeoff

Use this method to pull all parts drawn across all tabs in the Area Takeoff module directly into Slab Optimizer.

1. In the Slab Optimizer ribbon, click the top half of the Import Takeoff button to import all takeoff parts immediately.
2. Optionally, click the bottom half (dropdown arrow) of the Import Takeoff button to access the Group By option. In the following popup, use the Group By dropdown to select how Slab Optimizer should group the slab nesting by tags or phase. Click OK to confirm. 

Note: The Group By setting controls how parts are organized into separate nesting groups (tabs) in the Slab Optimizer output.

Method 2: Import Worksheet

Use this method to bring in parts from a specific worksheet rather than the entire takeoff. This lets you limit Slab Optimizer to only the products and parts defined in a selected worksheet.

1. In the Slab Optimizer ribbon, click Import Worksheet.
2. In the Import Worksheet popup, use the Worksheet dropdown to select the worksheet you want to use. Optionally, set a Group By value. Click OK to confirm.

Method 3: Import Excel

Use this method to manually enter your parts and dimensions into a formatted Excel file and upload it directly into Slab Optimizer, bypassing the takeoff and worksheet entirely.

1. In the Slab Optimizer ribbon, click Import Excel and upload your spreadsheet with your parts. 
2. If you do not already have our required Excel template ready, select Download Excel Template to download the required file format.
3. Populate the downloaded template with your parts data, then return to Import Excel and upload the completed file.

Note: Your Excel file must match the required template format exactly before uploading. It is recommended to download and use the provided template.

Method 4: Cut All

Use this method to re-run the Slab Optimizer calculation across all product groups at once. This is equivalent to clicking Start Cut individually for every group tab in the Slab Optimizer output.

Prerequisite: Slab Optimizer must have been run at least once before using Cut All.

1. In the Slab Optimizer ribbon, click Cut All.

Note: Each tab in the Slab Optimizer nesting output corresponds to one cut-to-size product group. Cut All recalculates every group in a single action, saving time on multi-product projects.

Note: If you need further assistance, contact MeasureSquare Customer Support at +1-626-683-9188 press 3 or email support@measuresquare.com.