4 Tools for Developing Innovative Solutions 4.9 TRIZ · 4. Tools for developing innovative...

InnoSupportTransfer – Supporting Innovations in SME 4. Tools for developing innovative solutions 4.9 TRIZ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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4 Tools for Developing Innovative Solutions

4.9 TRIZ

Keywords Creative Techniques, TRIZ, Brainstorming, Six Thinking Hats, Contradictions Learning Objective

After reading the component, you will become familiar not only with the TRIZ method and the main elements of it, but you will also learn how to use it in your organization. It is very important for managers and owners of firms to remember that same problems and solutions are repeating across industries and sciences,

so, why not adapt already studied patterns of inventions to your firm. In this module you will be introduced to a five steps approach to TRIZ and you will be given practical examples of how you could implement some short-term solutions to technical problems. It will take approx 40 minutes to read the module and at least 60 minutes to practice it at your organization. Introduction While Humanity exists, it will always be faced with problems! But the success of a firm is based on how quickly solutions to technical problems are found! Will you be faster than your competitors? Do you have a desire to conduct your business in innovative approach without wasting time “reinventing the wheel”? Someone once said: „Wouldn’t it be more logical to learn from success?! It would be even better to condense the experience gathered from the best solutions into concrete rules and to develop a methodology with complete models or even as a practical theory.” This person’s name was Genrikh Saulovich Altshuller (1926-1998) - Soviet engineer and researcher.1 TRIZ is an international science of creativity that relies on the study of the patterns of problems and solutions, not on spontaneous and intuitive creativity of individuals or groups.2 In the course of analysing thousands of successful innovations, G.S. Altshuller discovered that while the evolution of technology is apparently comprised of haphazard steps, in the long run it follows repeatable patterns. These patterns can be applied to the systematic development of technologies – both to solving product design and production problems, and to the development of next-generation technologies and products.3

1 Michael A.Orloff (2005). Inventive Thinking through TRIZ – A practical Guide (the 2

nd edition), p.2

2 http://www.triz-journal.com/archives/what_is_triz/

3 http://www.trizgroup.com/whatistriz.html


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Using TRIZ to discover the next set of winning innovations is the most beneficial application of this methodology, as such innovations may present the greatest business opportunity for any company.4

Let’s go to next sections, where detailed explanation and the practical example will guide you.

4.9.1 What is TRIZ?

In 1946 Genrikh Saulovich Altshuller developed the “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving”, and TRIZ is Russian acronym for that theory.5 G.S. Altshuller’s first invention was for scuba diving when he was only 14 years old. Serving in the Soviet Navy as a patent expert in the 1940s, his job was to help inventors apply for patents. However, he was often asked to assist in solving problems as well. His curiosity about problem solving led him to search for standard methods.

TRIZ is a methodology, a tool set, a knowledge base, and a model-based technology for generating innovative ideas and solutions for solving problems. TRIZ provides tools and methods for use in problem formulation, system analysis, failure analysis, and patterns of system

evolution.6 The study of TRIZ is based on screening and systematisation of millions of successful patents in order to discover the patterns which determine successful resolution of problems.

G.S. Altshuller discovered that over 90% of the problems engineers faced had been solved somewhere before. Most of the solutions could be derived from knowledge already present in the company, industry, or in another industry.7 G.S. Altshuller categorised these patents in a novel way. Instead of classifying them by industry, such as automotive, aerospace, etc., he removed the subject matter to uncover the problem solving process. He often found that the same problems had been solved over and over again using one of only forty fundamental inventive principles. If only later inventors had knowledge of the work of earlier ones, solutions could have been discovered more quickly and efficiently.8

4.9.2 Why to use TRIZ?

Please stop and think: Why should you spend time “reinventing the wheel”? As already stated by G.S. Altshuller, over 90% of problems have already been

4 http://www.trizgroup.com/whatistriz.html

5 Michael A.Orloff (2005). Inventive Thinking through TRIZ – A practical Guide (the 2

nd edition), p.3

6 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIZ

7 Ibid

8 http://www.mazur.net/triz/


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solved, so why not to use your time in a more efficient way! Nowadays no firm can afford to be passive with regard to new technological trends, all efforts need to be concentrated on developing new products, technologies and services or improving existing ones.

Conclusions: 1) Problems and solutions are repeated across industries and sciences. The

classification of the contradictions in each problem predicts the creative solution to that problem.

2) Patterns of technical evolution are repeated across industries and sciences. 3) Creative innovations use scientific effects outside the field where they were

developed.9

G.S. Altshuller screened over 200,000 patents looking for inventive problems and how they were solved. Of these (over 1,500,000 patents have now been screened), only 40,000 had somewhat inventive solutions; the rest were straightforward improvements.10

According to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the patent base covers 90 to 95 per cent of worldwide research results. Making good use of the patents would reduce research time by 60 per cent and research costs by 40 per cent.11

4.9.3 Where can TRIZ used?

TRIZ works! Large and small companies are using TRIZ on many levels to solve real, practical everyday problems and to develop strategies for the future of technology.12 TRIZ enhances the competitive position of any technology-based organisation therefore many World-leading organizations have studied and used the TRIZ method. These include, Allied Signal Aerospace Sector, Chrysler Corp., Emerson Electric, Ford Motor Co., General Motors Corp., Johnson & Johnson, Procter & Gamble, 3M, Siemens, Phillips, LG Rockwell International, UNISYS, Xerox Corporation, Sony and hundreds more. TRIZ was originally created to deal with mechanical problem solving, however, it has now been applied to many other fields including electronics, biology, management, sustainable development and environmental problems.

Please stop and think: Regardless of whether you are a producer or a service provider, it’s time to think about your existing products, services, manufacturing processes and technologies. Will they still be competitive enough in the next few years? Have you thought about some improvements in order to reduce the prime

costs of your firm?

4.9.4 How to apply TRIZ?

9 http://www.triz-journal.com

10 http://www.mazur.net/triz/

11 A CSC White Paper, European Office of Technology and Innovation. What Innovation Is. How companies

develop operating systems for innovation, p.19 12

http://www.triz-journal.com/whatistriz_orig.htm


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TRIZ is a way of thinking, a philosophy, a collection of methods and tools. TRIZ is not something that you will learn in a 20 minutes talk or reading. To become proficient in it requires commitment and loads of practice. But in the following 30 minutes we try to provide you, using straightforward language, with information on the practical application of TRIZ method which you can use in your firm. 4.9.4.1 General problem solving process

Before the study of TRIZ method for problem solving, let’s bear in mind a process for general problem solving. Primarily, the majority of people search for parallel problems to quickly find ready-made solutions. When a parallel solution is found, then it is adapted to the particular problem to discover the most

appropriate solution. The model for general problem solving is described in Figure 1.

Figure 1: General problem solving model 13

G.S. Altshuller based the developed the TRIZ method on the general approach to problem solving shown in Figure 1. Now it’s time to become more familiar with the basics of the TRIZ method.

4.9.4.2 The TRIZ process and practical example Figure 2 is a simple graph, what demonstrates the five general steps which you need to consider when finding the best solution for your technical problem. For a better understanding of the theoretical material, we will provide you with a simple example in conjunction with the theory. Let’s find out now!

13

http://www.triz-journal.com/whatistriz_orig.htm

Parallel standard problem

My problem

Parallel standard solution

My solution


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Figure 2: TRIZ approach to problem solving 14

Step 1 – Identify Your Problem. 15 The first and main task is to identify your problem; this involves clarifying the five main characteristics:

• operating environment for the problem

• resource requirements

• primary useful function

• harmful effects

• ideal result of the problem

Even if you are aware of all aspects of your problem, it is advisable to bear in mind a clear formulation of the problem from “What is already existing” to “What is coming” (or “Ideal result of solution to the problem”). This is the key principle for efficient problem settlement (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Movement of thinking from “what is” to “what’s coming”16

14

http://www.mazur.net/triz/ 15

Ibid 16

Michael A.Orloff (2005). Inventive Thinking through TRIZ – A practical Guide (the 2nd

edition), p 4

Is What exists?

Will be What is coming?

StepStep 11M y

problem

StepStep 22Prism of

TR IZ

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StepStep 33Previously w ell-solved

prob lem s

StepStep 44Paralle l solutions

StepStep 55M y

solu tion


© InnoSuTra 6/21 2007-08-22

Now it’s time to learn practical experience, where the five main characteristics for identification of the problem are explained.

The practical example: A beverage can. 17 An engineered system has to contain a beverage. Operating environment is that cans are stacked for storage purposes. Resources include weight of filled cans, internal pressure of can, rigidity of can construction. Primary useful function is to contain beverage. Harmful effects include cost of materials and producing can and waste of storage space. Ideal result is a can that can support the weight of stacking to human height without damage to cans or beverage in cans.

Please stop and think: Have you identified your problem? Can you innovate right now? It would be useful now to think about the practices you are using for problem solutions.

It’s advisable to use other creativity methodologies such as Brainstorming18 and Six Thinking Hats19 for definition of your problem. Step 2 – Formulate Your Problem: the Prism of TRIZ 20 Formulation of the problem in the terms of a Contradiction is the basis of the TRIZ method.

G.S. Altshuller defined inventive problems as those, which contain conflicting requirements, which he called Contradiction.21 Contradiction appears in the process; where one desirable property of the technology or technical system (A) is improved and another desirable property (B) is worsen.

Because A and B are different, the Contradiction represents a pair problem, reflecting the fact that two statements can be constructed for such contradictions. In other words, at least two contradictions can be formulated for each single technical problem. The Contradiction indicates where and when a conflict happens.22

Sounds complicated? Not at all – just read the explanations and follow the instructions carefully, and soon you will be able to practise the TRIZ method in your firm!

You need to answer six questions displayed in Figure 4 in order to identify the key contradiction that needs to be addressed to find solutions to your problem. Keep in a mind your problem has to be formulated as a Contradiction while at the same

time answering the six questions. Let’s have a look at Figure 4, which states the six questions which need to be answered.

17


Please see component 4.2 of this guide for details 19



Dr. Prakash R.Apte. Introduction to TRIZ.Innovative Problem Solving, p.3 22

Semyon D. Savransky ( 2000). ENGINEERING OF CREATIVITY: Introduction to TRIZ Methodology of Inventive Problem Solving, p60


© InnoSuTra 7/21 2007-08-22

Figure 4: Formulation of the problem in terms of Contradictions.23

Your answers to the six questions will lead you to a clear understanding of the problem with the ideal final result, the resources available and the possible TRIZ tool which will allow you to solve the problem!

The key to the solution to problems lies in the discovery and elimination of contradictions to your problem!

The practical example: A beverage can. 24 We cannot control the height to which cans will be stacked. The price of raw materials compels us to lower costs. The can walls must be made thinner to reduce costs, but if we make the walls thinner, it cannot support as large a stacking load. Thus, the can wall needs to be thinner to lower material cost and thicker to support stacking-load weight. This is a physical contradiction. If we can solve this, we will achieve an ideal engineering system. Step 3 – Search for previously well-solved problem – Matrix of Contradictions.25 G.S. Altshuller found, that there are only 39 technical characteristics, which cause a conflict. He named them the 39 Engineering Parameters.

The 39 Engineering Parameters are the fundamental descriptors used to define any engineering Contradiction, such as STRENGTH and WEIGHT. 26

Every problem could be described as a conflict between a pair of parameters -2 out of 39 parameters. In the past, many patents had already resolved these conflicts in several

23

Dr. Prakash R.Apte. Introduction to TRIZ.Innovative Problem Solving, p.15 24



http://baetriz.co.uk/glossary.htm


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different fields. Therefore, G.S. Altshuller selected and organised the most frequently occurring Contradictions and the principles of resolving these Contradictions. He put them in the form of a matrix of 39-improving parameters and 39-worsening parameters - 39 X 39 Matrix, and entered the most frequently used Inventive Principles, (about which you will learn in Step 4) in each intersecting cell. This matrix was named the Contradiction Matrix.

Contradiction Matrix - a 39 x 39 Matrix defined by the 39 Engineering Parameters which shows which of the 40 Inventive Principles other engineers have previously successfully used to solve Contradictions similar to the ones being analysed. 27

Full Contradiction Matrix is available at website: http://www.triz40.com/aff_Matrix.htm.

Now it’ time to find out about the 39 Engineering Parameters and what the Contradiction Matrix looks like!

The 39 Engineering Parameters are:28 1. Weight of moving object 21. Power

2 Weight of non-moving object 22. Waste of energy 3. Length of moving object 23. Waste of substance 4. Length of non-moving object 24. Loss of information 5. Area of moving object 25. Waste of time 6. Area of non-moving object 26. Amount of substance 7. Volume of moving object 27. Reliability 8. Volume of non-moving object 28. Accuracy of measurement

9. Speed 29. Accuracy of manufacturing 10. Force 30. Harmful factors acting on object 11. Tension, pressure, stress 31. Harmful side effects 12. Shape 32. Manufacturability 13. Stability of object 33. Convenience of use 14. Strength 34. Repairability

15. Durability of moving object 35. Adaptability 16. Durability of non-moving object 36. Complexity of device 17. Temperature 37. Complexity of control 18. Brightness 38. Level of automation 19. Energy spent by moving object 39. Productivity 20. Energy spent by non-moving

object

Table 1: The 39 Engineering Parameters

Now that you know the 39 Engineering Parameters, it’s time to learn how to create the Contradiction Matrix. Before to start, remember you need to represent your problem in the form of Contradictions!

27

Ibid 28

http://www.mazur.net/triz/


© InnoSuTra 9/21 2007-08-22

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No 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

1 Weight of moving object + 15, 8, 29,34

29, 17, 38, 34

29, 2, 40, 28

2 Weight of non-moving object +

10, 1, 29, 35

35, 30,

13, 2

5, 35, 14, 2

3 Length of moving object

8, 15, 29, 34

+ 15, 17, 4

7, 17,

4, 35

4 Length of non-moving object

35, 28, 40, 29

+

17, 7, 10, 40

35, 8, 2,14

5 Area of moving object 2, 17,

29, 4

14, 15,

18, 4 +

7, 14,

17, 4

6 Area of non-moving object

30, 2, 14, 18

26,

7, 9, 39

+

Table 2: A fragment of the Contradiction Matrix29. (Full Contradiction Matrix is available at website: http://www.triz40.com/aff_Matrix.htm)

Tips for constructing the Contradiction Matrix:

1) The 39 Engineering Parameters on the vertical row are the features of the defined problem which needed to be improved.

2) The 39 Engineering Parameters on the horizontal row are features which are affected and/or degraded as a result of improving the parameters of the defined problem.

3) The numbers in the intersection cells are Inventive Principles (you will learn about them in Step 4), which will guide you to the best solutions to your technical problem.

4) Some no diagonal cells are empty, what means, that either only a few or no patents were found for the resolution of that particular contradiction.

5) The combination between the same 39 Engineering Parameters are excluded (grey in colour with a cross)

Let’s think back to our example of the Beverage Can!

29

http://www.mazur.net/triz/contradi.htm

Feature to

Improve

Undesired Result (Conflict)


© InnoSuTra 10/21 2007-08-22

The practical example: A beverage can. 30

The standard engineering parameter that has to be changed to make the can wall thinner is No 4 - length of a non-moving object. (In TRIZ, these standard engineering principles can be quite general. Here, "length" can refer to any linear dimension such as length, width, height, diameter, etc.) If we make the can wall thinner, stacking-load weight will decrease. The standard engineering parameter that it is in conflict with is No 11 - tension, pressure, and stress.

The engineering parameters of the beverage can are No 4 - length of a non-moving object is the feature to improve, and No 11 - tension, pressure, and stress is the undesired secondary result.

So, the standard technical conflict for the beverage can is: the more we improve the standard engineering parameter "length of a non-moving object," the more the standard engineering parameter “tension, pressure, stress" becomes worse. Step 4 – Look for Parallel Solutions.31 G.S. Altshuller extracted 40 Inventive Principles, which are hints to find highly inventive and patentable solutions to your technical problem.

40 Inventive Principles - the 40 solutions to any Contradiction - all the ways Altshuller discovered to eliminate technical contradictions.32

The numbers listed in the intersection cells of the Contradiction Matrix are the most frequently used Inventive Principles (up to four), which are adaptable as solutions of your problem. The 40 Inventive Principles are (The expanded version of Principles can be found at the Appendix A): 1. Segmentation 21. Rushing through 2 Extraction 22. Convert harm into benefit

3. Local Quality 23. Feedback 4. Asymmetry 24. Mediator 5. Combination 25. Self-service 6. Universality 26. Copying 7. Nesting 27. Inexpensive short life 8. Counterweight

28. Replacement of a

mechanical system

9. Prior Counteraction

29. Use pneumatic or hydraulic systems

10. Prior Action

30. Flexible film or thin membranes

11. Cushion in Advance 31. Use of porous materials

30


Ibid 32

http://baetriz.co.uk/glossary.htm


© InnoSuTra 11/21 2007-08-22

12. Equipotentiality 32. Changing the colour 13. Inversion 33. Homogeneity 14. Spheroidality

34. Rejecting and regenerating

parts 15. Dynamicity

35. Transforming physical or

chemical states 16. Partial, overdone or excessive

action 36. Phase transition

17. Moving to a new dimension 37. Thermal expansion 18. Mechanical vibration 38. Use strong oxidisers

19. Periodic action 39. Inert environment 20. Continuity of useful action 40. Composite materials Table 3: The 40 Inventive Principles33

Do you remember the numbers in the intersection cells in the Contradiction Matrix? These are Inventive Principles that solve your stated problem in terms of Contradictions (Step 2) and further lead you to solutions to the problem. To be sure you understand we will return to the Contradiction Matrix (Table 4).

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No 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

1

Weight of moving object + 15, 8, 29,34

29, 17, 38, 34

29, 2, 40, 28

2 Weight of non-moving object + 10, 1, 29, 35

35, 30,

13, 2

5, 35, 14, 2


8, 15, 29, 34

+ 15, 17, 4

7, 17, 4, 35

4

Length of non-moving object 35, 28,

40, 29 +

17, 7, 10, 40

35, 8, 2,14

5 Area of moving object 2, 17, 29, 4

14, 15, 18, 4

+ 7, 14, 17, 4

33


Feature to

Improve


Inventive Principles


© InnoSuTra 12/21 2007-08-22

6 Area of non-moving object 30, 2, 14, 18

26, 7, 9, 39

+

Table 4: The Inventive Principles in the Contradiction Matrix.

� Each matrix cell points to Inventive Principles, that have been most frequently used in patents in order to resolve contradiction;34

� Some of the Principles correspond to the trends of development in technology and systems;

� Some others – urge you to think in other directions, such as: No 4 – Asymmetry, No 10 - Prior Action, No 17 - Moving to a new dimension, etc.

Let’s return to our example of the Beverage Can! The practical example: A beverage can. 35 As you remember, we need to improve the Beverage Can’s wall thickness or the Engineering parameter No4 - length of a non-moving object. But the result of improving it, the undesirable secondary effect, is loss of load bearing capacity or No 11 - tension, pressure, and stress.

Now it’s time to find out respective Inventive Principles for our Beverage Can! Look at the numbers in the intersecting cell of the Contradictions Matrix between the Engineering parameters No4 - length of a non-moving object

(Feature to Improve) and No 11 - tension, pressure, stress (Undesired Result). The Inventive Principles for the Beverage Can are 1, 14, and 35, which describe possible solutions. Let’s look at the Table 5.

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No 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

1 Weight of moving object

+ 15, 8, 29,34

29, 17,

38, 34

29, 2, 40, 28

2, 8, 15,

38 8, 10, 18, 37

10, 36, 37, 40

10, 14, 35, 40

34

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIZ 35


Feature to

Improve



© InnoSuTra 13/21 2007-08-22

2 Weight of non-moving object

+ 10, 1, 29, 35

35, 30, 13, 2

5, 35, 14, 2

8, 10, 19, 35

13, 29, 10, 18

13, 10, 29, 14


8, 15, 29, 34

+ 15,

17, 4

7, 17, 4, 35

13, 4, 8 17,

10, 4

1, 8, 35

1, 8, 10, 29

4 Length of non-moving object

35, 28,

40, 29 +

17, 7, 10, 40

35, 8, 2,14

28, 10 1,

14, 35

13, 14, 15, 7

Table 5: The Inventive Principles for the Beverage Can.

It doesn’t sound so complicated, does it? Would you consider applying the TRIZ method to find already solved technical solutions to your problem? But first, let’s look at some possible solutions to the problem of our Beverage Can!

Three Inventive Principles were found as problem solutions for the beverage can (The expanded version of the Principles are available in Appendix A):

� Principle No1 – Segmentation, which is subdivided into the following subparagraphs: a. Divide an object into independent parts b. Make an object sectional c. Increase the degree of an object's segmentation

For example, using Inventive Principle 1c. - "Increase the degree of an object's segmentation," the wall of the can could be changed from one smooth continuous wall to a corrugated or wavy surface made up of many "little walls." This would increase the edge strength of the wall yet allow a thinner material to be used. See figure 5.

Figure 5: Application of the Inventive Principle 1c for the Beverage Can (Source: http://www.mazur.net/triz/). � Principle No 14 - Spheroidality, which is subdivided into the following

subparagraphs:

a. Replace linear parts or flat surfaces with curved ones; replace cubical shapes with spherical shapes

b. Use rollers, balls spirals c. Replace a linear motion with rotating movement; utilize a centrifugal force


© InnoSuTra 14/21 2007-08-22

Using Inventive Principle 14 a., the perpendicular angle at which most can lids are welded to the can wall can be changed to a curve. See Figure 6.

Figure 6: Application of the Inventive Principle 14a for the Beverage Can (Source: http://www.mazur.net/triz/). � Principle No 35 - Transformation of the physical and chemical states of an

object. That means, change an object's aggregate state, density distribution, degree of flexibility, temperature Using the Principle No35 for the Beverage Can means - change the composition to a stronger metal alloy used for the can wall to increase the load bearing capacity. Step 5 – Adapt to My solution The next step is to look to see if one of these Inventive Principles can be applied to your specific problem. On the basis of the TRIZ method, you can easily find possible solutions to your problem.

But, please bear in mind the importance of Step 2 – state your problems in terms of Contradictions! Try to dedicate as much time as possible to ensure you define the right Contradictions. For better results, discuss them with your colleagues using other techniques from this guide, such as Brainstorming36 and 635-

Method37. Otherwise, neither the Contradiction Matrix nor the Inventive Principles will assist you to find the correct solutions to your problem. Right now, let’s return to our example of the Beverage Can. In less than one week, the inventor Jim Kowalik of Renaissance Leadership Institute was able to propose over twenty usable solutions to the U.S. canned beverage industry, several of which have been adopted.38

Please stop and think: Have you found TRIZ to be a very difficult method? Possibly not at all! Can TRIZ help you? Possibly – yes! Why not begin to use it in your firm right now? If it is the case that your technical problem is among the 1%

of undiscovered problems, that haven’t ever been identified before (no patents), then it will enable you to become an inventor!

36





© InnoSuTra 15/21 2007-08-22

4.9.5 Additional TRIZ tools 39 The TRIZ methodology can be adapted to different kinds of problem solving. The TRIZ method is relatively simple but forces the user to pre-formulate the problem in terms of standard engineering parameters. Therefore, we will introduce you shortly to two additional tools which will help you to implement TRIZ in your firm: 1) ARIZ - Algorithm for Inventive Problem Solving 40 ARIZ is the central analytical tool of TRIZ. It is a systematic procedure for identifying solutions without apparent contradictions. Depending on the nature of the problem, anywhere from five to sixty steps may be involved. Basic steps include:41

1) Formulate the problem 2) Transform the problem into a model 3) Analyse the model 4) Resolve physical contradictions 5) Formulate ideal solution.

2) TRIZ software42 Because TRIZ is built on a database of hundreds of thousands of patents, principles, operators, contradictions, etc. using the software helps engineers and innovators with minimal training achieve timely results. Here is a description of some of the software packages available:

• Improver Helps to improve existing designs, manufacturing processes, system performance, system quality, manufacturing cost, patent applications and product features.

• Ideator Uses ARIZ. Helps you to create abstract models of a system, including the formulation of contradictions and envisioning of the ideal situation. Idealization is a process used to bring your system as close to ideal as possible. Innovation Mini-Guide contains approximately 100 technical applications of physical, chemical and geometrical effects.

• Eliminator (Appetizer) The Ideation Appetizer is designed to help you find truly elegant and innovative problem solutions without any drawbacks or tradeoffs.

• Innovation Workbench TM (IWB) If you are interested to learn more about additional TRIZ tools, we suggest you to go to the following web site: http://www.mazur.net/triz/

39

Ibid 40

Dr.Prakash R.Apte. Introduction to TRIZ.Innovative Problem Solving, p.12 41


Ibid


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4.9.6 Summary of Key Points

TRIZ is an effective and creative problem-solving method, what addresses the problem of determining and categorizing all features and aspects of technological processes, technical systems and even the inventive processes themselves which have to be invented and/or improved. TRIZ is an effective method to find the best solutions to technical based problems without spending time conducting your own research, while utilising the database of millions of successful patents. The main elements for the successful application of the TRIZ method are formulating your problem in terms of Contradictions, defining Engineering Parameters for your problem and detection respective Inventive Principles in the Contradiction Matrix. Finally, the discovered Inventive Principles need to be analysed and adapted to your problem. TRIZ is not a method which can be learned in one day, but if your goal is to become faster and more innovative than your competitors, you will definitely make use of it in your organization.

In this component you learned what TRIZ is and how to apply it in order to determine the best solutions to technically based problems. The module described the 5 steps of the TRIZ approach giving practical examples. Now you

know where to find potential answers on your problems – at Contradiction Matrix.

TRIZ will allow you to find valuable solutions more quickly and with less effort. But – TRIZ supports thinking, but it doesn’t replace it!43

43

Michael A.Orloff (2005). Inventive Thinking through TRIZ – A practical Guide (the 2nd

edition), p IX


BIBLIOGRAPHY

A CSC White Paper, European Office of Technology and Innovation. What Innovation Is. How companies develop operating systems for innovation. Dr.Prakash R.Apte. Introduction to TRIZ.Innovative Problem Solving. Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, India. Mazur.net, Ideation International Inc, Michigan, USA, 2004 <http://www.mazur.net/triz/>, viewed 8 August 2008 Michael A.Orloff (2005). Inventive Thinking through TRIZ – A practical Guide (the 2nd edition). Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg, Germany. Semyon D. Savransky ( 2000). ENGINEERING OF CREATIVITY: Introduction to TRIZ Methodology of Inventive Problem Solving. CRC Press, New York, USA. The TRIZ Journal, CTQ Media LLC, 2006 <http://www.triz-journal.com>, viewed 8 August 2008 The TRIZ Group, The TRIZ Group, L.L.C., 2008 <http://www.trizgroup.com/whatistriz.html>, viewed 8 August 2008 TRIZ Glossary <http://baetriz.co.uk/glossary.htm>, viewed 8 August 2008 TRIZ Matrix & 40 Principles <http://www.triz40.com/aff_Matrix.htm>, viewed 8 August 2008 Wikipedia-the free encyclopedia, Wikipedia Foundations Inc, USA <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIZ>, viewed 8 August 2008 Further reading G. Altshuller (1984). CREATIVITY AS AN EXACT SCIENCE: The Theory of the Solution of Inventive Problems. Translated by Anthony Williams. Gordon and Breach Science Publishers. G. Altshuller (1996). AND SUDDENLY THE INVENTOR APPEARED: TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving. Worchester, Massachusetts: Technical Innovation Center. G. Altshuller (1997). 40 PRINCIPLES: TRIZ Keys to Technical Innovation. Translated by Lev Shulyak and Steven Rodman. Worchester, Massachusetts: Technical Innovation Center. G. Altshuller (1999). THE INNOVATION ALGORITHM: TRIZ, systematic innovation, and technical creativity. Worchester, Massachusetts: Technical Innovation Center.


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Dr. John Terninko, Alla Zusman, Boris Zlotin (1997). STEP-BY-STEP TRIZ: Creating Innovative Solution Concepts. Dr. John Terninko, Alla Zusman, Boris Zlotin (1998). SYSTEMATIC INNOVATION: An Introduction to TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving). Zlotin B., Zusman A., Altshuller G., Philatov V.(1999). TOOLS OF CLASSICAL TRIZ. Ideation International Inc.

GLOSSARY

ARIZ (Algorithm for Inventive Problem Solving) - is a systematic procedure for identifying solutions without apparent contradictions. (Dr.Prakash R.Apte. Introduction to TRIZ.Innovative Problem Solving)

Contradiction appears in the process, where one desirable property of the technology or technical system (A) is improved and another desirable property (B) is worsen. (Semyon D. Savransky (2000). ENGINEERING OF CREATIVITY: Introduction to TRIZ Methodology of Inventive Problem Solving) Contradiction Matrix - a 39 x 39 Matrix defined by the 39 Engineering Parameters which shows which of the 40 Inventive Principles other engineers have previously successfully used to solve contradictions similar to the ones being analysed. (http://baetriz.co.uk/glossary.htm)

Inventive Principles - the 40 solutions to any contradiction - all the ways Altshuller discovered to eliminate technical contradictions. (http://baetriz.co.uk/glossary.htm)

TRIZ - methodology, tool set, knowledge base, and model-based technology for generating innovative ideas and solutions for problem solving. TRIZ provides tools and methods for use in problem formulation, system analysis, failure analysis, and patterns of system evolution. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRIZ) 39 Engineering Parameters - the fundamental descriptors used to define any engineering contradiction, such as STRENGTH and WEIGHT. (http://baetriz.co.uk/glossary.htm)

Appendix A - The expanded version of 40 Inventive Principles.44

1. Segmentation

a. Divide an object into independent parts b. Make an object sectional c. Increase the degree of an object's segmentation

2. Extraction a. Extract (remove or separate) a "disturbing" part or property from an object, or b. Extract only the necessary part or property

3. Local Quality

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a. Transition from a homogeneous structure of an object or outside environment/action to a heterogeneous structure

b. Have different parts of the object carry out different functions c. Place each part of the object under conditions most favorable for its operation

4. Asymmetry a. Replace a symmetrical form with an asymmetrical form. b. If an object is already asymmetrical, increase the degree of asymmetry

5. Combining a. Combine in space homogeneous objects or objects destined for contiguous

operations b. Combine in time homogeneous or contiguous operations

6. Universality � Have the object perform multiple functions, thereby eliminating the need for some

other object(s) 7. Nesting

a. Contain the object inside another which, in turn, is placed inside a third object b. Pass an object through a cavity of another object

8. Counterweight a. Compensate for the object's weight by joining with another object that has a lifting

force b. Compensate for the weight of an object by interaction with an environment

providing aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forces 9. Prior counter-action

a. Perform a counter-action in advance b. If the object is (or will be) under tension, provide anti-tension in advance

10. Prior action a. Carry out all or part of the required action in advance b. Arrange objects so they can go into action in a timely matter and from a convenient

position 11. Cushion in advance

� Compensate for the relatively low reliability of an object by countermeasures taken in advance

12. Equipotentiality � Change the working conditions so that an object need not be raised or lowered.

13. Inversion a. Instead of an action dictated by the specifications of the problem, implement an

opposite action b. Make a moving part of the object or the outside environment immovable and the

non-moving part movable c. Turn the object upside-down

14. Spheroidality a. Replace linear parts or flat surfaces with curved ones; replace cubical shapes with

spherical shapes b. Use rollers, balls spirals c. Replace a linear motion with rotating movement; utilize a centrifugal force

15. Dynamicity a. Make an object or its environment automatically adjust for optimal performance at

each stage of operation b. Divide an object into elements which can change position relative to each other c. If an object is immovable, make it movable or interchangeable

16. Partial or overdone action


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� If it is difficult to obtain 100% of a desired effect, achieve somewhat more or less to greatly simplify the problem

17. Moving to a new dimension a. Remove problems with moving an object in a line by two-dimensional movement

(i.e. along a plane) b. Use a multi-layered assembly of objects instead of a single layer c. Incline the object or turn it on its side

18. Mechanical vibration a. Set an object into oscillation b. If oscillation exists, increase its frequency, even as far as ultrasonic c. Use the resonant frequency d. Instead of mechanical vibrations, use piezovibrators e. Use ultrasonic vibrations in conjunction with an electromagnetic field

19. Periodic action a. Replace a continuous action with a periodic (pulsed) one b. If an action is already periodic, change its frequency c. Use pulsed between impulses to provide additional action

20. Continuity of a useful action a. Carry out an action continuously (i.e. without pauses), where all parts of an object

operate at full capacity b. Remove idle and intermediate motions

21. Rushing through � Perform harmful or hazardous operations at very high speed

22. Convert harm into benefit a. Utilize harmful factors or environmental effects to obtain a positive effect b. Remove a harmful factor by combining it with another harmful factor c. Increase the amount of harmful action until it ceases to be harmful

23. Feedback a. Introduce feedback b. If feedback already exists, reverse it

24. Mediator a. Use an intermediary object to transfer or carry out an action b. Temporarily connect an object to another one that is easy to remove

25. Self-service a. Make the object service itself and carry out supplementary and repair operations b. Make use of wasted material and energy.

26. Copying a. Use a simple and inexpensive copy instead of an object which is complex,

expensive, fragile or inconvenient to operate. b. Replace an object by its optical copy or image. A scale can be used to reduce or

enlarge the image. c. If visible optical copies are used, replace them with infrared or ultraviolet copies

27. Inexpensive, short-lived object for expensive, durable one � Replace an expensive object by a collection of inexpensive ones, forgoing

properties (e.g. longevity) 28. Replacement of a mechanical system

a. Replace a mechanical system by an optical, acoustical or olfactory (odour) system b. Use an electrical, magnetic or electromagnetic field for interaction with the object c. Replace fields

1) Stationary fields with moving fields 2) Fixed fields with those which change in time


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3) Random fields with structured fields d. Use a field in conjunction with ferromagnetic particles

29. Pneumatic or hydraulic construction � Replace solid parts of an object by gas or liquid. These parts can use air or water

for inflation, or use air or hydrostatic cushions 30. Flexible membranes or thin film

a. Replace traditional constructions with those made from flexible membranes or thin film

b. Isolate an object from its environment using flexible membranes or thin film 31. Use of porous material

a. Make an object porous or add porous elements (inserts, covers, etc.) b. If an object is already porous, fill the pores in advance with some substance

32. Changing the colour a. Change the colour of an object or its surroundings b. Change the degree of translucency of an object or processes which are difficult to

see c. Use coloured additives to observe objects or processes which are difficult to see d. If such additives are already used, employ luminescent traces or tracer elements

33. Homogeneity � Make those objects which interact with a primary object out of the same material or

material that is close to it in behaviour. 34. Rejecting and regenerating parts

a. After it has completed its function or become useless, reject or modify (e.g. discard, dissolve, evaporate) an element of an object

b. Immediately restore any part of an object which is exhausted or depleted 35. Transformation of the physical and chemical states of an object

� Change an object's aggregate state, density distribution, degree of flexibility, temperature

36. Phase transformation Implement an effect developed during the phase transition of a substance, for instance, during the change of volume, liberation or absorption of heat. 37. Thermal expansion

a. Use a material which expands or contracts with heat b. Use various materials with different coefficients of heat expansion

38. Use strong oxidizers a. Replace normal air with enriched air b. Replace enriched air with oxygen c. Treat an object in air or in oxygen with ionizing radiation d. Use ionized oxygen

39. Inert environment a. Replace the normal environment with an inert one b. Carry out the process in a vacuum

40. Composite materials � Replace a homogeneous material with a composite one

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