Silly rabbit, TRIZ is for Innovation!

What is TRIZ? TRIZ is the Russian acronym for “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving”. Soviet engineer and researcher Genrich Altshuller and his colleagues developed the methodology in 1946 and for the next 40 years improved its design. TRIZ is the science of the study of the patterns of problems and solutions. Millions of patents were analyzed to discover patterns that led to breakthroughs solutions to the specific problems.

The three primary research processes to create TRIZ were as follows:


1. Problems and solutions are repeated across industries and sciences. The classification of the contradictions in each problem predicts the creative solutions 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.


TRIZ looks to be based on a resolution of contradictions. TRIZ has 40 principles that look to solve the contradictions. Using these known 40 principles (solutions) in new challenges can bring innovative solutions. My understanding is that all innovated creations can be found in the matrix of these 40 principles.


A possible example of TRIZ is the creation of the TWEEL (combination of tire and wheel) and the solution to flat tires. The original tire had an inner tube. Once the inner tube is punctured, the tire is useless until the inner tube is replaced or repaired. This led to the invention of the tubeless tire that we are use to today. Michelin then abstracted this one level up and combined the tire and the wheel. Using a non-inflated tire and the wheel then lightly compresses to give a comfortable ride.








For further information refer to TRIZ40.com, TRIZ-Journal.com, and AITRIZ.org. The matrix of the 40 principles is available for download. Specific industries have applied to their unique needs.


Special thanks to Jack Hipple, Principle of Innovation-triz.com. He was a presenter at the Atlanta Creativity Exchange and is an authority on this subject.


Sources: Wikipedia.com, Innovation-TRIZ, TRIZ40.com, triz-journal.com, and gizmag.com