TRIZ Methodology Research Articles

An Ageing‐in‐Place Service Innovation Model by Using TRIZ Methodology

AbstractMost of the research on the concept of “ageing‐in‐place” has focused on surveys of the needs of senior citizens and/or the quality of the services delivered to them. Service innovation for ageing‐in‐place has received little research attention, however. The present study addresses this issue by proposing a service innovation model for ageing‐in‐place. In this model, a TRIZ methodology is used to develop the parameter correspondence table, which integrates TRIZ contradiction parameters and ageing‐in‐place service‐quality determinants, to deal with service contradiction. A TRIZ contradiction matrix is then applied to generate inventive solutions for the innovation of the ageing‐in‐place service system. A case study is also conducted to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model.

A New Perspective on EFL Teaching: Applying Fuzzy QFD in TRIZ for Teaching Quality Improvement

Teaching quality has been a frequently studied topic in education literature; however, a creative approach for improving teaching quality is rarely discussed. In this paper, a systematic framework based on the TRIZ methodology is suggested to generate creative solutions for improving teaching quality. First, the determinants of teaching quality were investigated based on a comprehensive review of language teaching. Subsequently, a parameter-corresponding table was developed to apply the TRIZ contradiction matrix effectively to solve language-teaching problems. Cochran test was used as a statistical hypothetic test during this phase. The correlation between “the vague opinions from the supplier and receptor of teaching” and “the determinants of teaching quality” was analyzed by using fuzzy QFD to identify the critical determinants related to teaching quality improvement. The corresponding parameters can be effectively applied in the TRIZ contradiction matrix to identify the inventive principles. The appropriate re-explanations of the inventive principles developed for foreign language teaching are discussed. A case study proved the usefulness of the approach in EFL courses, and practical solutions are presented to demonstrate the valuable contribution of the TRIZ methodology to the education field.

An Approach Based on TRIZ Methodology and SERVQUAL Scale to Improve the Quality of Health-Care Service: A Case Study

A new innovative approach based on theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) and the quality service measurement scale (SERVQUAL) is proposed to improve the quality of health-care service. TRIZ is used at a wide range of area in industrialized countries to solve problems, while SERVQUAL is used very extensively to measure quality of service sector (especially in health-care service) by many researchers. Su et al. (2008) proposed a systematic framework based on TRIZ to solve the service quality problems. The aim of this study is to develop a methodology to improve the quality of health-care service sector by adapting the SERVQUAL scale parameters to TRIZ in the light of the study by Su et al. (2008). Firstly, we mapped the determinants of SERVQUAL scale with the analogical explanations of the 39 TRIZ engineering parameters. Then, questionnaire was prepared for confirming our study. Questionnaire was applied to ten doctors (three of them are Professors (academic) and the rest of them are regular doctors) at the Ataturk University Hospital in Turkey. Finally, a case study was conducted to show how to apply this new innovative approach. Application area of TRIZ is extended thanks to this study

In Memoriam: Professor Evgeny (Eugene) Rivin, 1932–2011

In Memoriam: Professor Evgeny (Eugene) Rivin, 1932–2011

Study on Rollover Security Based on the Bus Middle Body Frame

Based on the middle body frame of a Half-integral bus which a bus manufacturer mainly produces in China, this paper discusses analyses and improvements for rollover security of the bus middle body frame with TRIZ methodology and TRIZ tools. On the basis of forming mechanism of bus rollover, a breakthrough point has been found from cause and effect relationship and function achievements aspect; some customized measures are therefore proposed. It focuses on the stiffness design of side pillars and the strength enhancement of soldering joints. Applying CAE analysis based on Ls-dyna, the results show that the deformation and deformation mode of the bus middle body frame have been greatly improved during bus rollover, which fulfills the requirements of the force of ECE R66 Rollover Security Regulations and validates the correctness of suggested measures.

An eco- and inno-product design system applying integrated and intelligent qfde and triz methodology

The green environmental laws and regulations are legislated, implemented, and enforced in many countries and economic regions. The provision of green products and services are the fast growing trend in global consumer markets. Therefore, introducing new products with environmental considerations becomes critical for global brand manufacturers. This research depicts an integrated and intelligent eco- and inno-product design methodology to support environmental friendly green product development. The methodology adopts approaches, such as life cycle assessment (LCA), quality function deploymnet for environement (QFDE), theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) and back-propagation network (BPN) to achieve eco- and inno-design objectives. LCA evaluates and compares the environmental impacts of production. QFDE transforms high-level concerns of environment into design requirements. When there are many historical QFDE data, the BPN prediction model is trained and deployed to automate the specifications of green design improvement. TRIZ is to support the creation of innovative product design ideas effectively and efficiently during the concept design stage. Finally, this paper presents two eco-design cases of power adaptor to demonstrate the proposed methodology.

Education and training of creative problem solving thinking with TRIZ/USIT

Experiences of teaching under-graduate students and training industrial engineers on how to think creatively in problem solving are reported. The contents are based on the TRIZ methodology but have been further reorganized and unified into USIT (Unified Structured Inventive Thinking) for easier to learn and apply. Case studies, published by engineers in technologies and obtained by students for everyday-life problems, are found useful in both teaching/training situations.

Innovation and creativity on logistics besides TRIZ methodology

Logistics activities have been receiving special considerations from scientific management today due to the present growing demands of the global economy. To achieve different goals among different participants of on going complexities of logistics networks, constitute the challenge facing the construction of new paradigms of 21st century. The main initiatives on supply chain management, today, have to consider widely spread models and concepts used in the solution of contemporary logistics problems. Logistic systems as technical systems can be identified by its original matrix of contradictions associated by similarities to inventive principles, models and related technologies. Solutions on this field can be rearranged in agreement with fundamental logistics variables as time, information and resource. Most frequent logistics principles, not related to ordinary solutions, are identified in this paper as important potential for innovative and creative new solutions. In this way, TRIZ model applicability have been confirmed here for the field of operation management, especially to the best use of logistic system resources, new models applicability and technological innovations in this area.

Using TRIZ and human-centered design for consumer product development

TRIZ is increasingly being applied to consumer product development, in which products have to solve more than just technical problems, they have to provide compelling solutions to consumer needs. This paper discusses the use of TRIZ together with Human-Centered Design (HCD), a design methodology evolved for consumer product development. Using a case study, we illustrate why understanding user needs in consumer product development is particularly important, and then compare TRIZ and HCD methodologies. To better understand the appropriate use of TRIZ in consumer product development, we present a framework of Use, Usability and Meaning. Design situations where the emphasis is on a product‟s Use stand to benefit most from TRIZ methods, whereas for product areas with strong Meaning attached, HCD methods provide the most guidance. We finish by presenting some opportunities for successful integration of the two methodologies.

Relationships between TRIZ and classical design methodology

The paper shows that more similarities than differences exist between TRIZ methods and classical design methods. The solution principles of abstraction and concretion are discussed in detail and are formalized mathematically. As an example, the methodical analogies of the conflict modelling and the preparation of similarity ratios for dimensioning are pointed out. TRIZ methods are integrated in a typical model of a systematical design process. For selected working steps of the design process, the author describes alternative suitable design methods. Further, the article includes the experiences of the author concerning conflict and contradiction modelling and presents a simple manageable software tool to support the conflict modelling. A complex case study from automotive industry shows the harmonized use of TRIZ and classical design methods.

Systematic design through the integration of TRIZ and optimization tools

Marketing strategies are focusing on innovation as the key for being competitive; as a consequence, product development processes must be improved in order to have a link as close as possible between conceptual design and detailed design activities. Within this context, TRIZ and TRIZ-based methodologies and tools are still poorly integrated with product embodiment means: CAD/CAE systems are not suited for supporting the designer in the conceptual design phase and at the same time inventive/separation principles, standard solutions etc. can hardly be translated into a modification of a CAD model and the only opportunity is to restart the modeling process.A small consortium of Italian Universities is analyzing the opportunity to use Design Optimization tools as a means for linking Computer-Aided Innovation (CAI) tools with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems: www.kaemart.it/prosit. Among the specific objectives of the project, this paper describes how to analyze TRIZ technical contradictions by means of Design Optimization tools, with the aim of translating them into physical contradictions. The suggestions provided by inventive/separation principles are therefore converted into a new Design Optimization problem for the development of a novel solution.

Applying TRIZ Methodology to Assist Product Improvement – Take Folding Bicycle as an Example

In this research, patent maps were first drawn by searching, organizing and classifying those patents related to bicycles’ capabilities and technologies, and the direction of improving and inventing folding bicycles was found out with the patent maps. Next, the methodology of TRIZ was applied to analyze the problems; the basic technological contradictions were confronted, and the resolve program was developed. In the end, an improved folding bicycle was designed, using PRO/E, the drawing software, to complete the product’s blueprint.

Improved Design of J-Box Steam Lines in Continuous Bleaching Range Based on TRIZ

The incorporation of TRIZ thinking seems to have elevated the capability of function analysis method to a higher level .This case study applies the TRIZ methodology to assist solve a problem for a process of continuous bleaching range. The focus is placed on identifying the cause of multiform degree of whiteness.

Design of safety-critical systems using the complementarities of success and failure domains with a case study

A safety-critical system has to qualify the performance-related requirements and the safety-related requirements simultaneously. Conceptually, design processes should consider both of them simultaneously but the practices do not and/or cannot follow such a theoretical approach due to the limitation of design resources. From our experience, we found that safety-related functions must be simultaneously resolved with the development of performance-related functions, particularly, in case of safety-critical systems. Since, success and failure domain analyses are essential for the investigation of performance-related and safety-related requirements, respectively, we articulated our perception to Axiomatic Design (AD), Fault Tree Analysis (FTA), and TRIZ. A design evolution procedure considering feedbacks from AD to identify functional couplings, TRIZ methodology to explore uncoupling solutions and FTA to improve reliability in a systematic way is presented here. A case study regarding design of safety injection tank installed in a nuclear power plant is also included to illustrate the proposed framework. It is expected that several iterations between AD–TRIZ–FTA would result into an optimized design which could be tested against the desired performance and safety criteria.

Systematic improvement in service quality through TRIZ methodology: An exploratory study

Recently, TRIZ, a Russian acronym that means ‘Theory of Inventive Problem Solving’, developed by Genrich Altshuller, has been recognized as a widely popular subject concerning innovation in the technological field. In this study, we attempt to extend the TRIZ methodology to a broader application in a non-technological area. A systematic framework based on the TRIZ methodology is proposed, and a case study involving an e-commerce company is used to illustrate the applicability of the framework in terms of service quality improvement. Aside from this, in order to improve the effectiveness of the conventional TRIZ problem-solving process for its practitioners, a parameter corresponding table is developed to provide an efficient way of applying the TRIZ contradiction matrix to resolve service problems. Through the practical result of our case study, the valuable contribution of the TRIZ methodology in the service industry is further obtained.

A case study on the application of Fuzzy QFD in TRIZ for service quality improvement

The improvement of service quality so as to enhance customer satisfaction has been widely mentioned over the past few decades. However, a creative and systematic way of achieving higher customer satisfaction in terms of service quality is rarely discussed. Recently, TRIZ, a Russian acronym which means “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving,” has been proven to be a well-structured and innovative way to solve problems in both technical and non-technical areas. In this study, a systematic model based on the TRIZ methodology is proposed to generate creative solutions for service quality improvement. This is done by examining first the determinants of service quality based on a comprehensive qualitative study in the electronic commerce sector. Then the correlation between the imprecise requirements from customers and the determinants of service quality is analyzed with Fuzzy Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in order to identify the critical determinants relating to customer satisfaction. After which, the corresponding TRIZ engineering parameters can be effectively applied in the TRIZ contradiction matrix to identify the inventive principles. A case study is illustrated to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in an e-commerce company, and its results are presented to show the applicability of the TRIZ methodology in the e-service sector.

AN INNOVATIVE WAY TO CREATE NEW SERVICES: APPLYING THE TRIZ METHODOLOGY

ABSTRACT This study presents a systematic process of creating new services in the service sector based on the TRIZ methodology which was developed by Geinrich Alshuller, it stands for “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving”. With its unique thinking, TRIZ has, in recent years, proved to be a well-structured and innovative way of problem solving in technical and non-technical areas. From this, we present a simplified problem-solving process which applies the TRIZ contradiction matrix to identify the corresponding inventive principles. Then with the related standard solutions discovered from the TRIZ knowledge base, the identified problems could be more predictably resolved, and consequently, an innovative solution would be efficiently developed. Finally, our proposed approach is illustrated with a sample case of a company which provides online application software services in Taiwan. The valuable results displayed by this company effectively demonstrate the feasibility of applying the TRIZ methodology in creating new services in the service industry.

A substance-field ontology to support the TRIZ thinking approach

An ideal TRIZ reasoning environment should support TRIZ fundamental concepts and simulate its thinking process. In this paper, an advanced TRIZ methodology is analysed in this perspective: the substance-field analysis. Previously, it has been shown that the TRIZ knowledge can be modelled and managed in an object-oriented ontology for computer aided problem formulation. A new ontological model based on this previous work is proposed in order to simulate the TRIZ problem solving stage: from the generation of a general solution to the interpretation phase linking the abstract field of general solution to the real field of physic.

Some thoughts about problem solving in a DMAIC framework

This paper explores the iterative nature of problem solving in the context of a complex system issue involving the interplay of hardware and software on a diesel engine. The case study illustrates how application of TRIZ and parameter design methodologies can greatly enhance and accelerate the problem-solving process. Slow- and high-amplitude oscillation of the entire vehicle powertrain under steady pedal position at idle is called ringing, and similar behaviour under cruise-control conditions is called hitching. TRIZ (a Russian acronym for Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) Anticipatory Failure Determination was used to discover root cause. Dr. Taguchi's parameter design was then used to find the appropriate levels for a variety of software variables to virtually eliminate the hitching condition. The use of TRIZ and robust engineering methods up-front in the design process, and the distinction between Six Sigma and design for Six Sigma are also discussed.

Manufacturing technology evolution trends

Discusses the problem definition and solving strategies contained in the TRIZ methodology. Constructed around the findings of over 1,500 person years of research, and the systematic extraction of knowledge from nearly 3 million of the world’s strongest patents, the Russian Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, TRIZ, has identified a number of design contradiction‐eliminating strategies, and distinct and predictable technology evolution patterns. These patterns and their use in the context of current and projected future manufacturing methods and systems are discussed.