How can PHP developers optimize array sorting algorithms for tasks like material cutting optimization with minimal waste?

To optimize array sorting algorithms for tasks like material cutting optimization with minimal waste, PHP developers can utilize sorting algorithms that prioritize minimizing waste by efficiently arranging items based on their dimensions. One approach is to implement a custom sorting algorithm that considers both the size of the material and the items to be cut from it, ensuring that the cutting process generates minimal waste.

<?php
function customSort($items) {
    usort($items, function($a, $b) {
        $areaA = $a['width'] * $a['height'];
        $areaB = $b['width'] * $b['height'];
        
        if ($areaA == $areaB) {
            return 0;
        }
        
        return ($areaA < $areaB) ? -1 : 1;
    });
    
    return $items;
}

// Example usage
$items = [
    ['width' => 10, 'height' => 5],
    ['width' => 8, 'height' => 4],
    ['width' => 6, 'height' => 3],
];

$sortedItems = customSort($items);
print_r($sortedItems);
?>