TRIZ: The Theory of Inventive Problem Solving

Summary

In this lecture, Dmitry Plekhanov introduces TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, developed by Russian engineer Genrikh Altshuller. TRIZ is a systematic approach to innovation, based on analyzing over 400,000 patents. It emphasizes that technological progress follows predictable patterns and can be approached systematically. The method involves four stages: identifying a problem, reducing it to essentials, finding a general solution from a vast database, and creating a specific solution. TRIZ also addresses technical and physical contradictions in product design, encouraging solutions without compromises. This structured approach enhances creativity and efficiency in innovation.

Takeaways

• 📚 TRIZ stands for 'Theory of Inventive Problem Solving' and originates from the Russian phrase 'теория решения изобретательских задач'.
• 🛠️ The TRIZ method was developed by Genrikh Altshuller after analyzing over 400,000 patents to identify principles behind successful inventions.
• 🌍 Over the last 30 years, TRIZ has been adopted by global companies like NASA, Mitsubishi, Ford Motors, and Samsung for faster and more efficient product design.
• 📈 TRIZ asserts that technological progress and innovation are governed by certain rules, making them predictable rather than random.
• 🧠 To become innovative, TRIZ recommends following a structured, systematic approach to problem-solving.
• 🔄 TRIZ problem-solving consists of four stages: identifying the problem, reducing it to its essentials, matching with a general solution, and creating a specific solution.
• ⚙️ TRIZ introduces technical contradictions, where improving one aspect of a system worsens another, such as increasing car speed but adding weight.
• 🌂 Physical contradictions arise when contradictory requirements, such as umbrella size and portability, need to be addressed.
• 💡 TRIZ helps identify effective solutions for current and future challenges, pushing innovation without compromise.
• 🚫 TRIZ emphasizes eliminating compromises between price and quality, suggesting that the best solutions avoid trade-offs.

Q & A

What does TRIZ stand for, and what is its origin?

TRIZ stands for 'Theory of Inventive Problem Solving' and originates from the Russian phrase 'теория решения изобретательских задач'. It was developed by Russian engineer Genrikh Altshuller, who analyzed over 400,000 patents to identify principles for successful inventions.

What is the main idea behind the TRIZ approach?

The main idea behind TRIZ is that technological progress and innovations are not random but follow specific rules. These rules can be predicted, and following a structured, systematic approach to problem-solving can lead to true innovation.

What are the four stages of the TRIZ problem-solving process?

The four stages of the TRIZ problem-solving process are: 1) Identifying the specific problem, 2) Reducing the problem to its essentials and presenting it in a TRIZ format, 3) Matching the problem with a general solution from the TRIZ database, and 4) Designing a specific solution based on the general solution to target the original problem.

What is a technical contradiction according to TRIZ?

A technical contradiction occurs when improving one aspect of a system leads to the worsening of another. An example is an engine designed to increase a car's speed, which can result in more weight, thus limiting the car's overall speed.

What is a physical contradiction in TRIZ?

A physical contradiction occurs when contradictory requirements exist for a product's physical properties. For instance, a large umbrella protects better from rain but becomes harder to carry, presenting a conflict between size and portability.

How does TRIZ help resolve contradictions in product development?

TRIZ provides structured methods for resolving contradictions by eliminating the need for trade-offs. Instead of accepting compromises, TRIZ encourages seeking solutions that can improve multiple aspects without diminishing others.

What types of organizations use TRIZ, and how does it benefit them?

Organizations like NASA, Mitsubishi, Ford Motors, and Samsung use TRIZ. It helps them design products more quickly and efficiently by following systematic innovation methods rather than relying on trial and error.

How does TRIZ view the relationship between technological progress and innovation?

TRIZ views technological progress and innovation as predictable processes governed by specific rules. By understanding these rules, innovators can foresee future advancements and create solutions in a structured, systematic way.

What role does TRIZ play in brainstorming and innovation processes?

TRIZ offers a structured framework for thinking and brainstorming, guiding innovators through systematic approaches to solving problems, identifying contradictions, and generating creative solutions.

What is the ultimate goal of TRIZ when applied to problem-solving?

The ultimate goal of TRIZ is to eliminate compromises and trade-offs in problem-solving, ensuring that solutions maximize both efficacy and efficiency without sacrificing quality or functionality.