Layout Optimization

Note: Layout Optimization is an add-on feature that requires a separate license in iQuote. Contact your ePS support representative for licensing and additional information.

With iQuote, you can improve your processes and reduce waste when printing products by simulating the best substrate usage and machine setup. This enables you to determine how many products you can print.

The optional Layout Optimization feature further enhances this functionality by automatically assessing your machinery and raw materials to calculate how the system can combine products with different sizes into a single layout. Thus, you can improve the efficiency of the process by avoiding the empty spaces on paper that would otherwise be cut from the final product as waste.

For example, assume there are several products on the same estimate. With the Layout Optimization feature, instead of printing one product at a time, you can combine two or more products and print them on the same paper, making the process quicker and more efficient.

Prerequisites

To use the Layout Optimization feature, you must meet the following prerequisites:

You will need to install the Metrix Automation Server for iQuote application and you must have the iQuote Layout Optimization license. Contact your ePS representative for details.

Your iQuote environment must include an active eFlow connection.

You must configure iQuote to use regular association.

Tip: Refer to the How To Use The Layout Optimization topic for more information about configuring your iQuote system to use regular association.

Note: No other Metrix configurations are needed to use the Layout Optimization feature.

How It Works

The following table describes how the Layout Optimization feature works:

Step	Performed By	Action
1	You	Create an estimate, adding all the products and their respective details.
2	You	Open the Layout Optimization window, select the component(s) that you want to optimize the layout, and indicate whether they should be in the same group.
3	iQuote	Calculates all the possible combinations, and determines whether to include all components in the same layout.
4	You	Choose which of the layout suggestions to use; one for each group.