Authentic Learning Task (ALT) #3: Back to the Brewery

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ALT #3 Overview

Overview

In this ALT, you revisit the brewery to undertake the same problem- maximizing the shelf life of the beer. This time, however, you implement a tool that minimizes the amount of information. The tool is a matrix for running a full factorial experiment analyzing the same three factors used previously - pasteurization temperature (PT), cooling time (CT), and final cooling temperature (FCT), and selecting two levels for each, creating eight possible dial combinations.

In this ALT, you run a full factorial design experiment to find the optimal dial settings for the PT, CT, and FCT, to substantially increase the shelf life of the beer, with the fewest possible trials.

After completing this ALT, you should be able to demonstrate the following competencies:

  • Use sound sampling techniques and data analysis to make repeatable, defensible inferences (Comp. 1).
  • Solve real world problems by designing and conducting factorial and fractional factorial experiments (Comp. 2).

Materials and Equipment
No materials or equipment are needed to complete this ALT.

Safety and Disposal
No special safety or disposal procedures are required.

Pre-Activity

In this Pre-Activity, you work through a two factor experiment using the Data Analysis package in Excel and then practice using software that can be downloaded from iSix Sigma.

The experimental design is based on the Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle described at the NIH Improvement Network.

Using the PDSA in conjunction with a Fishbone Chart used to define possible causes and Design of Experiments (DOE) maximizes our efforts. An aid to planning the PDSA is found in the next section.

Design of Experiments (DOE)
A Design of Experiment (DOE) is a structured, organized method for determining the relationship between factors (Xs) affecting a process and the output of that process (Y). (from iSix Sigma quality Dictionary and Glossary)

Look at a sample DOE.

Additional Information on How to Conduct a Full-Factorial Experiment

Read "Most Practical DOE Explained, Including Free Spreadsheet Template" by Kim Miles.

Working Back to the Brew

Click here for the outcomes of the Back to the Brew example using the spreadsheet template provided by Kim Miles at the iSixSigma site for a complete factorial of 8 trials.

Now, download the complete worksheet.

Self Assessment

Review the solution and be prepared to conduct a new sample in group.

 Activity

In your team, perform the following steps to complete the activity:

  1. Form the same teams of three students as in ALT #1.
  2. Refer to Information Sheet: Full Factorial Design and Instruction Sheet: Back to the Brewery.
  3. Complete Data Sheet: Factors of the Best Brew.

Post-Activity

Your team should now post its results from the activity to the Discussion Board.

Assignment
To prepare for ALT #4: On the Block, read the pages 33-49 in your Statistical Experiments Participant Journal, and prepare a Planning an Experiment Form for the Jenga Block Experiment. Be prepared to discuss with your group.

Click here to download a Planning for Experiment template.

Assessment
Your facilitator may use Assessment Sheet: Back to the Brewery to evaluate your results from the activity and your posting to the Discussion Board.

 

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