Adapted Use of the TRIZ System Operator

Abstract

The System Operator (SO), also known as Nine Boxes or Multiscreen, is classically used for analysing the undesired situation according to different perspectives. However, its logic can be suitably exploited also for other kinds of tasks. In such a context, this paper shows an alternative application of the SO. In particular, the new proposed SO approach allows us to formulate alternative problems, i.e., different from the central one, although referring to the same problem-solving task. By applying the proposed procedure to a real case study, this paper shows that the tool can be used for problem analysis and formulation purposes, aimed at better clarifying the problem-solving task. The case study concerns a preliminary set of experiments performed to evaluate the possibility of obtaining angular shapes by bending tiles made by a specific compostable composite material. The suggestions obtained using the proposed SO approach allowed us to find potentially valid solutions, thus paving the way for further validation tests. In particular, tests are still needed to validate the actual potentialities of the proposed SO. Additionally, further and more comprehensive tests are required to validate the solutions inferred in this study concerning the compostable tiles.

Barriers and enablers of TRIZ: a literature analysis using the TASKS framework

“…Problem solvers could predict the future of a technical system using TRIZ tools that help with trends of evolution, s-curve, system operator (nine screens), the concept of ideality and morphological analysis (Rantanen et al , 2017; Savransky, 2000; Keong et al , 2017; Cascini et al , 2009; Cascini, 2012). Fiorineschi et al accentuated that the system operator could also assist designers in proposing ideas (Fiorineschi et al , 2021). Further, with the aid of its tools, TRIZ could elicit the intrinsic contradiction of a problem (Delgado-Maciel et al , 2020; Rantanen et al , 2017).…”

“…TRIZ also enhances people’s capability to understand the root of a problem (Yao et al , 2020; Ilevbare et al , 2013). Furthermore, TRIZ has some tools for modeling a problem, such as functional analysis, system operator, substance-field, resource analysis, cause and effect chain analysis, to help a user better understand a problem (Ilevbare et al , 2013; Yao et al , 2020; Keong et al , 2017; Chang et al , 2016; Fiorineschi et al , 2021).…”

“…The complexity could cause misunderstanding, which abuses the technique and generates barriers. It was emphasized that designers should be well-trained to exploit TRIZ correctly (Fiorineschi et al , 2021; Fiorineschi et al , 2018c). Ilevbare et al also mentioned that the misuse and misinterpretation of TRIZ are diffused within non-technical applications, which would increase the confusion surrounding the methodology (Ilevbare et al , 2013).…”

Noise and Work Reduction through Remodeling of Stern Tube Assembly in a Shipbuilding Process by Applying TRIZ Theory

“…It was then recommended that a proper training and implementation of TRIZ must be based according to these three clusters. Additionally, the theories surrounding TRIZ evolve into another kind of approach such as the study conducted by Fiorineschi et al [14] which makes use of the TRIZ System Operator framework in the evaluation of the possibility to achieve angular shapes through bending tiles done by a composite material. Their study proves that the tool is an effective way of analyzing certain problems and solution formulation.…”

Knowledge-Driven Manufacturing Process Innovation: A Case Study on Problem Solving in Micro-Turbine Machining

“…Esterhuizen et al [21] studied the role of knowledge management in enhancing innovation design and identified a knowledge creation path as a critical enabler for innovation capability maturity. To enhance computer-aided problem solving, Duran-Novoa et al [22] presented a strategy that incorporated dialectical negation operators in evolutionary algorithms and TRIZ (The Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) principles [23]. Similarly, Cakir and Cilsal [24] built a TRIZ-like contradiction matrix-based access system, with a corresponding knowledge base that can provide design recommendations for turning, milling, and drilling processes.…”