Flow Diagram

A flow diagram is a graphical means of presenting, describing, or analyzing a process &

movement of material, men etc.
This is done with the help of all five symbols which represent steps in a chain of steps.
These all symbols are connected to other one by lines and arrows which represent
sequence and dependency relationships (i.e., X must be done before Y can be done).

Objectives Of Flow Diagram

The flow chart indicates the sequence of events they do not only show the movement of
men, material etc but the path of movement can be better visualized by a flow diagram.
Flow diagram is drawn to scale.
It shows the relative position of machines, jigs, fixture, etc and mark the paths followed
by men and material.
Distance between two locations is indicated in flow diagram.

Steps in drawing a Flow Diagram

Draw to scale the plan of the work area.
Mark the relative position of machine tools, benches, store, racks, inspection tables etc.
From the different observations, draw the actual movement of the material or worker on
the diagram.
Indicate the direction of movement.
Mark the distances between consequence two locations.

Types of Flow Diagrams

Following types of flow diagrams are used;

Outline process flow chart (OPC)
Flow process chart, which can be further divided into three types;
Man type
Material type
Equipment type
Multiple activity chart like man and machine chart
SIMO chart

Outline Process Flow Chart (OPC)

Flow Diagrams

An outline process chart is a process chart which gives an overall view of a process by
recording only the main operations and sequences in proper sequence. So, it is obvious
that such a chart requires only symbols for Operations and inspection. A brief note of
the nature of each inspection and operations is written alongside the symbol. Allowed
time where ever, known, can also be added.

Example
Outline process chart for assembly of two plates with rivets is shown. As it is clear, only
operations and inspection are considered here.

Flow Process Chart

Flow Diagrams

 A flow process chart is a chart of all the activities involved in a process.

It is similar to an operations process chart, except that more detail is shown by including
transportations and delays as well as operations, inspections, and storages.
Not usually used for entire assemblies, it is used for just one component (or operator).
Add in information on:
i) Operation duration (time to complete).
ii) Distance traveled (for transport operations).
Good for showing savings of a new method.
Process charts summarizes the whole process.
They are used to compare the existing and the proposed methods.
Process is observed, who, what, where, when, and how questions are asked.
Every detail is understood and the chart of the existing situation is drawn.

Common Symbols

Division of Flow Process Chart

Flow process chart can be further divided into three types;
Man type (Records what the worker does)
Material type (Records what happens to material)
Equipment type (Records how the equipment is used)

Example of Man type Flow Process Chart

Operator Process Chart (also called Two Handed Process Chart) for assembly of an
electric tester.

Flow Diagrams

Flow Diagrams

 Example of Material type Flow Process Chart

Operation : Gear Manufacturing

Part number : GS-I 12
Method : Present
Charted by : L.N. Mittal
Approved by : A.S. Prasad
Date : 15.6.9

Man Machine Chart

Flow Diagrams

A worker-machine chart is used for recording and analyzing the working relationship
between operator and machine on which he works. It is drawn to time scale. Analysis of
the chart can help in better utilization of both worker and machine time. The possibility
of one worker attending more than one machine is also sought from the use of this chart.

Example
One operator operating two machines.

SIMO Chart
Flow Diagrams

A SIMO Chart is another Left-Hand Right-Hand chart with the difference that it is drawn
to time scale and in terms of basic motions. It is used when the work cycle is highly
repetitive and of very short duration.

Example
Assemble Clamps and Bolts.

Flow Diagrams