An Algorithm for Cost-Minimization of Multiple-Image Printing

The subject is: description and discussion of the development of an iterative algorithm which achieves cost minimization for gang runs on printing press equipment. This work extends and refines the work of Engstrom and Rosenberg as described in A Heuristic Approach to Cost-Minimization of Multiple-Image Printing 1976 1976 323 330. An efficient iterative algorithm based on dynamic programming concepts has been developed which minimizes planning time and raw materials expended reproducing gang runs on printing press equipment. A computer program for microcomputer has been developed which minimizes planning time and raw materials expended reproducing gang runs on printing press equipment. A computer program for microcomputer has been developed from this algorithm which will produce satisfactory results, in an acceptable period of time, for a large number of the gang run situations a printing shop would experience.