40 inventive principles

Definition

The 40 inventive principles are a set of guidelines within the TRIZ methodology that provide strategies for problem-solving and innovation. They serve as a systematic way to encourage creative thinking and help overcome contradictions in design and engineering processes. By applying these principles, individuals and teams can find inventive solutions that enhance product functionality and performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 40 inventive principles were developed by Genrich Altshuller based on the analysis of thousands of patents to identify common patterns in innovative solutions.
2. These principles can be used individually or in combination to address a wide variety of technical problems across different industries.
3. Some examples of inventive principles include 'Segmentation,' which suggests breaking an object into smaller parts, and 'Combining,' which promotes the merging of similar objects to enhance efficiency.
4. Each principle can be applied to resolve specific contradictions, allowing innovators to approach problems from various angles without compromising key features.
5. Training in the application of these principles often leads to improved teamwork, enhanced brainstorming sessions, and higher success rates in innovation initiatives.

Review Questions

• How can the 40 inventive principles help in overcoming contradictions in design?
  • The 40 inventive principles provide structured strategies for tackling contradictions that arise during the design process. By applying these principles, designers can identify conflicting requirements, such as increasing product strength while reducing weight. For instance, using the principle of 'Taking out' allows for the removal of unnecessary components to streamline the design while still maintaining functionality, leading to effective solutions that balance competing needs.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using multiple inventive principles together when addressing complex problems.
  • Using multiple inventive principles simultaneously can significantly enhance the problem-solving process by providing a broader range of strategies. This approach allows innovators to combine different ideas, increasing the likelihood of finding an optimal solution. For example, applying both 'Combining' and 'Segmentation' could lead to innovative designs that not only integrate features from multiple sources but also break down complex systems into manageable parts, ultimately improving overall functionality.
• Create an innovative solution for a common problem by applying at least three of the 40 inventive principles, explaining your rationale for each choice.
  • To address the common problem of limited workspace in small apartments, I would apply 'Segmentation,' 'Combination,' and 'Adaptation.' First, using 'Segmentation,' I would propose furniture that can be disassembled into smaller components for easy storage. Next, applying 'Combination,' I would suggest furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a bed that doubles as a sofa. Finally, using 'Adaptation,' I could recommend customizable modular units that fit together based on individual needs. This combination of principles creates a flexible solution tailored for limited spaces while maximizing utility.

Related terms

TRIZ: A Russian acronym for 'theory of inventive problem solving,' TRIZ is a methodology aimed at improving creativity and innovation through systematic approaches.

Contradiction: A situation where two opposing forces or needs exist simultaneously, often leading to challenges in problem-solving and design.

Innovation: The process of translating ideas or inventions into goods or services that create value or bring about significant changes.