40 TRIZ inventive principles and their implementation that leaders of product development departments should know

Introduction to TRIZ and Its Importance

TRIZ, which stands for Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, is a methodology that helps streamline the process of innovation by providing structured methods to solve complex problems.
Originating in the Soviet Union, TRIZ has become a valuable resource in product development, offering 40 principles to inspire creative problem-solving and innovation.

By understanding and implementing these principles, leaders of product development departments can significantly enhance their team’s efficiency and creativity.

The Foundation of TRIZ Principles

TRIZ is built on the analysis of the patterns of problems and solutions.
Genrich Altshuller, the founder of TRIZ, and his team reviewed thousands of patents and discovered that similar problems often share similar solutions.
This research led to the development of 40 inventive principles, designed to solve specific contradictions in systems.

These principles serve as guidelines for engineers and innovators to think outside the box when faced with challenges in product development.

Why TRIZ is Essential for Product Development Leaders

Innovation is at the heart of product development, and maintaining a competitive edge requires constant improvement and novel solutions.
TRIZ provides leaders with a robust toolkit to encourage breakthrough thinking and overcome obstacles systematically.
It helps teams break free from traditional thought patterns and explore new directions, fostering a culture of innovation within organizations.

The 40 TRIZ Principles Explained

In this section, we will explore each TRIZ principle and discuss how leaders in product development can apply them to real-world scenarios.

1. Segmentation

Divide an object or system into independent parts to improve performance or solve a problem.
For instance, modular design in electronics allows for easier upgrades and repairs.

2. Taking Out

Remove or separate a specific element from a system to enhance its functionality or simplify its operation.
This principle is evident in wireless technology, where cables are eliminated for better convenience.

3. Local Quality

Adapt a system or object to perform optimally in specific areas or conditions.
Car tires with different tread patterns for varying terrains are an example of this principle in action.

4. Asymmetry

Alter the symmetry of an object or system to enhance its utility and performance.
Asymmetrical aircraft wings can be optimized for better lift and fuel efficiency.

5. Merging

Combine multiple elements or functions to create a new, more effective system.
Think of smartphones that integrate cameras, computers, and communication devices in one portable unit.

6. Universality

Design an object or system to perform multiple, diverse functions.
The Swiss Army knife exemplifies this principle with its various integrated tools.

7. Nested Doll

Incorporate elements within one another to save space or improve functionality.
Telescopic antenna designs employ this principle to extend range without occupying additional space.

8. Anti-Weight

Counterbalance a system with external factors to reduce weight or improve equilibrium.
Helium balloons can counteract the weight of a payload in meteorological equipment.

9. Preliminary Anti-Action

Anticipate potential problems and design solutions to prevent them.
Safety mechanisms in machinery that deactivate when thresholds are reached illustrate this principle.

10. Preliminary Action

Perform actions upfront to simplify later procedures.
Self-lubricating bearings in machinery reduce maintenance needs by addressing friction issues proactively.

11. Beforehand Cushioning

Prepare for potential failures by providing a buffer or cushion.
Airbags in vehicles are a classic example of cushioning to protect occupants in collisions.

12. Equipotentiality

Align elements of a system to equalize distribution and optimize performance.
Consistent power flow in electrical grids through parallel circuits utilizes this principle.

13. The Other Way Around

Reverse operations or processes to achieve improvements.
Reverse osmosis in water purification achieves cleanliness by reversing the natural flow of water through membranes.

14. Spheroidality

Transform linear elements into spherical forms for better utility or function.
Reflectors in lighting fixtures are often parabolic to spread light more evenly.

15. Dynamicity

Design systems to adjust dynamically to changing conditions.
Adaptive cruise control in vehicles adjusts speed based on traffic flow, utilizing dynamicity.

16. Partial or Excessive Action

Apply more or less of a function to achieve desired outcomes.
Variable-speed drills allow for fine-tuning the torque applied to fasteners.

17. Another Dimension

Switch between dimensions or perspectives to resolve problems.
Foldable furniture benefits from this principle by shifting between 2D and 3D configurations.

18. Mechanical Vibration

Use vibrations to improve performance or solve issues.
Ultrasound cleaning devices use vibrations to remove dirt from surfaces efficiently.

19. Periodic Action

Implement actions in regular intervals rather than continuously.
Windshield wipers operate periodically to maintain visibility without constant movement.

20. Continuity of Useful Action

Maintain actions without interruptions to boost efficiency.
The conveyor belt system in manufacturing keeps materials moving continuously for streamlined production.

Applying TRIZ in Product Development Teams

Understanding the TRIZ principles is only the first step.
Product development leaders must actively implement these principles into their teams’ workflows to see tangible benefits.

Encourage Comprehensive Brainstorming

Leaders should guide brainstorming sessions using TRIZ principles.
Provide scenarios where specific principles could be applied, inspiring new ways of thinking and problem-solving.

Integrate TRIZ into Training Programs

Incorporate TRIZ principles into professional development programs for team members.
Offer workshops and courses to ensure everyone is proficient in leveraging TRIZ for innovation.

Dedicate Resources for Exploration

Allocate time and resources for teams to experiment with different TRIZ principles on current projects.
This exploration can often lead to unexpected breakthroughs and enhancements in product design.

Foster a Culture of Continuous Improvement

Encourage teams to revisit completed projects with a TRIZ perspective.
Retroactive application of these principles can highlight areas for improvement and yield better results in future iterations.

Conclusion

By mastering and implementing the 40 TRIZ principles, leaders of product development departments can drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
TRIZ not only provides structured problem-solving techniques but also fosters a culture of creativity and ingenuity.
Ultimately, embracing TRIZ empowers teams to tackle obstacles with confidence and come up with groundbreaking solutions.