1. Snaps Graph

In class, we saw an example of a snaps graph, for the continuous flow exercise. The graph illustrates the system state over time. The graph allows one to “read off” the answer to pretty much any question that is posed.

1. Produce a snaps graph, that indicates over time the snaps present in each stage of the process. (You can use the graph shown in class as a model, but do not feel you have to reproduce it; there are many useful visuals that one could create.) The graph can be neatly hand-drawn (take a photo) or done in software.

2. Write out the calculations for all “transition points” in the graph. Make them easy to read. Indicate units. The calculations can be handwritten (take a photo) or typed out. Excel is NOT expected here.

3. Process Improvement – Bins

The most snaps in the receiving bins is 175 barrels. So it is obvious that increasing the bin size by 175 (to 400 barrels) will eliminate the waiting of trucks.

Is 400 barrels the smallest receiving bin capacity, such that trucks don’t have to wait? Briefly justify your answer.

3. Process Improvement – Delivery Break

One idea for improvement is this:  Take a “delivery break” during the day to let the plant “catch up”. During the delivery break, trucks will not arrive. After the delivery break, trucks will resume at the same arrival rate as before. The same total quantity of snaps will be delivered.

1. What would be the metrics to evaluate a plan for a delivery break?

2. Propose a good plan for a delivery break.

3. Quantify the performance of your plan.