Method of preparing a cutting path for machine cutting

A method of preparing a cutting path for machine cutting of a plurality of parts from a sheet material using beam cutting technology, wherein each one of the plurality of parts is formed by one of a plurality of two dimensional free form shapes, comprising at least a first shape, the method comprising:

• identifying at least one segment of the at least one first shape, which segment makes it difficult for a part of the at least one first shape to be positioned and cut so close to another shape in the plurality of shapes so that only one cut of the cutting beam is found between the parts,
• modifying the segment of the at least one first shape to provide a modified first shape, comprising a modified segment, configured such that the modified segment allows a part of the modified first shape to be positioned and cut so close to another shape in the plurality of shapes so that only one cut of the cutting beam is found between the parts whenever the shape of the parts allows it;
• wherein a cutting beam of the machine will have an influential zone that extends on both sides of the cutting beam during cutting, and wherein the identifying of at least one segment that makes it difficult for a part of the at least one first shape to be positioned and cut so close to another shape in the plurality of shapes so that only one cut of the cutting beam is found between the parts involves identifying interference of the influential zone of the cutting path;
• and
• wherein the modifying the segment of the at least one first shape to provide a modified first shape involves modifying the segment such that interference of the influential zone is decreased.