EOQ is a clean formula for a smooth-demand model. Lumpy period demand changes the model, so the honest move is to solve the discrete instance directly.
highlighted = computed this step
Lumpy Demand
The four period demands are 2, 3, 1, and 4. Motivation: the demand arrives in named periods, so the model must decide when each period is covered.
dt=2,3,1,4
EOQ Assumption Check
The EOQ quantity 8 belongs to the smooth-demand model. Interpretation: lumpy periods require a period-by-period order plan instead.
EOQ formula scope differs from lumpy demand
Diagram note
Honesty note: EOQ is exact only for the idealized continuous constant-demand model: known steady demand, infinitely divisible order quantity, zero lead time, and no capacity. The demand table starts a different exact model. Pixel positions are rounded for layout; every number shown is exact.