Theory of solving inventive problems (TRIZ) is a powerful tool for generating ideas, streamlining processes, and overcoming creative impasses. Developed by Heinrich Altshuller in the mid-20th century, the technique is based on the analysis of thousands of patents and the identification of universal solution patterns. Today TRIZ is used not only in engineering disciplines, but also in marketing, management, design and even everyday situations.
In this article we will look at all 40 TRIZ techniques with specific examples from different areas - from the automotive industry (Nissan GT-R uses the principle "dynamism" in an all-wheel drive system) to culinary tricks (reception "pre-execution" when marinating meat). You will learn how to apply each technique in practice, avoiding template solutions.
We will pay special attention three most universal techniques - “separation”, “local quality” and “asymmetry”, which cover up to 30% of all inventive tasks. For convenience, we have grouped the techniques by type of transformation (physical, structural, time) and added interactive widgets to check understanding.
1. Principles of changing the structure of an object
This group of techniques focuses on modifying the form, composition, or relative arrangement of system elements. They are often used in design, architecture and mechanical engineering, where physical limitations require non-standard solutions.
For example, reception "segmentation" (No. 1) is the basis of modular smartphones (Google Project Ara) or prefabricated furniture systems (IKEA). And the reception "carrying out" (No. 2) made it possible to create wireless headphones (Apple AirPods), “moving” the sound source outside the ear.
- 🔹 Segmentation — division of an object into independent parts. Example: LEGO-constructors or sectional heating radiators.
- 🔸 Removal — separation of the “interfering” part. Example: external hard drives or cloud storage.
- 🔶 Local quality — changing the properties of individual parts. Example: heated steering wheels in cars (Nissan Ariya) only in the grip zone.
- 🔺 Asymmetry - replacement of a symmetrical shape with an asymmetrical one. Example: ergonomic mice for right-handed/left-handed people.
⚠️ Attention: When using the technique "unification" (#5) avoid artificially complicating the system. For example, trying to combine a smartphone, a projector and a coffee maker in one device will lead to a decrease in the reliability of each component.
- Segmentation (modular things)
- Removal (separate accessories)
- Local quality (zonal heating)
- Asymmetry (ergonomic items)
2. Techniques of dynamization and flexibility
These techniques involve making changes over time or depending on conditions. They are especially useful for adaptive systems, from smart materials to flexible business models.
A classic example is the reception "dynamism" (No. 15), implemented in car suspension (Nissan Patrol with the system Hydraulic Body Motion Control), which automatically adjusts stiffness depending on road conditions. Another case is reception "preliminary anti-action" (No. 18): in the aerospace industry, rockets are equipped with emergency escape systems that trigger to the emergence of a critical situation.
| Reception | An example from technology | Business example |
|---|---|---|
| Periodic action (№19) | Flashing turn signal in cars | Seasonal discounts in retail |
| Continuity of useful action (№20) | Regenerative braking systems (Nissan Leaf) | Subscriptions with automatic renewal |
| Overshoot (№21) | Fast forwarding in players | Accelerated Courses |
Reception "flexibility and transformability" (No. 14) has found application in foldable smartphones (Samsung Galaxy Z Fold) and transformable furniture. And the reception "use of pneumatic and hydraulic structures" (No. 29) underlies the operation of shock absorbers and medical cuffs for measuring blood pressure.
Using the technique "feedback" (No. 23), add sensors to the system that not only record parameters, but automatically correct the operation. For example, in smart thermostats (Nest) the temperature is adjusted based on the presence of people in the room.
3. Techniques for using resources
This group teaches how to make the most efficient use of available resources - material, energy or information. Reception "self-service" (No. 25) illustrates the operation of solar panels, which not only generate energy, but are also cleared of dust due to vibration. And the reception "cheap fragility" (#27) explains the success of disposable products - from razors (Gillette) before packaging.
Particularly interesting is the reception "waste use" (No. 31). The automotive industry converts waste oil into fuel, and the construction industry uses recycled plastic to make tiles. B IKEA They even created a furniture collection made from recycled bottles.
- 🔹 Mediator (No. 24) - adding an intermediate element. Example: Bluetooth adapters for older audio systems.
- 🔸 Self-service (No. 25) - the object itself performs auxiliary functions. Example: robot vacuum cleaners (iRobot Roomba).
- 🔶 Copy (No. 26) - replacing an inaccessible object with its copy. Example: 3D printing of spare parts.
How is the “matryoshka” technique (No. 30) used in logistics?
Standard container sizes (20 and 40 feet) allow ships, trains and trucks to be loaded optimally, reducing empty space. And in IT, this technique is implemented in virtualization - when several virtual machines run on one physical server.
4. Simplification and optimization techniques
These techniques help reduce system complexity without losing functionality. Reception "versatility" (No. 6) is the basis of multitools (Leatherman) or smartphones replacing dozens of devices. And the reception "nesting" (No. 7) explains the success of built-in technology - from microwaves to smart home systems.
Reception "antiweight" (No. 8) are used in aviation (airships with helium) and underwater vehicles (floats). And the reception "preliminary anti-action" (No. 18) has found application in medicine - vaccines “train” the immune system to encounters with a real virus.
⚠️ Attention: When using the technique "backfire" (#13), make sure the side effects do not outweigh the benefits. For example, using antibiotics for prevention (rather than treatment) can lead to bacterial resistance.
| Reception | Technical implementation | Household use |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-placed pillow (№11) | Shock absorbers in cars | Rugs at the front door |
| Equipotentiality (№12) | Pressure equalization in sealed systems | Using one charger for several gadgets |
| Sphere instead of cube (№14) | Ball bearings | Round tables for even distribution of guests |
5. Time conversion techniques
These techniques are associated with changing the speed, sequence or rhythm of processes. Reception "pre-executed action" (No. 10) illustrates the preliminary layout of ingredients in cooking (mise en place) or assembling furniture using templates. And the reception "slip" (No. 21) is used in fast payment systems (Apple Pay), where authorization occurs in a fraction of a second.
Reception "feedback" (No. 23) is the basis of adaptive cruise control in cars (Nissan ProPILOT), where the system constantly adjusts the speed depending on the traffic situation. And the reception "intermediary" (No. 24) explains the success of aggregator services (Uber, Booking.com) that connect consumers and service providers.
Speed up routine processes (technique No. 21)|Add intermediate stages for control (technique No. 24)|Automate feedback (technique No. 23)|Prepare resources in advance (technique No. 10)-->
6. Techniques for changing physical parameters
This group includes techniques associated with changes in the state of aggregation, temperature, pressure and other physical characteristics. Reception "phase transition" (No. 35) underlies the operation of refrigerators (the transition of refrigerant from the liquid phase to the gaseous phase) and dry ice for cooling.
Reception "thermal expansion" (No. 36) are used in bimetallic thermometers and circuit breakers. And the reception "accelerated oxidation" (#38) explains how batteries work - a chemical reaction generates an electric current.
- 🔹 Inertia (No. 39) - use of inertial forces. Example: flywheels in hybrid vehicles (Nissan Note e-Power).
- 🔸 Composite materials (No. 40) - a combination of materials with different properties. Example: carbon fiber in sports car bodies (Nissan GT-R NISMO).
Physical transformation techniques (No. 35-40) most often require deep technical knowledge, but provide the most patent-pure solutions. For example, the use of metal shape memory (technique No. 37) made it possible to create self-deploying antennas for satellites.
7. Practical cases of using TRIZ
Let's look at how a combination of techniques helps solve real problems. For example, the problem electronics overheating in compact devices was solved using:
- Reception "segmentation" (No. 1) - division of the processor into cores;
- Reception "local quality" (No. 3) - cooling only “hot” zones;
- Reception "phase transition" (No. 35) - use of heat pipes with liquid.
Another case - packaging of fragile goods. Traditional solutions (bubble wrap) have been improved by:
- 📦 Reception "nesting" (No. 7) - foam inserts exactly according to the shape of the product;
- 🌀 Reception "sphere instead of cube" (No. 14) - rounded corners of the package to distribute the load;
- ♻️ Reception "waste use" (No. 31) - recycled cardboard.
In the automotive industry Nissan applied the technique "dynamism" (No. 15) in the system e-4ORCE for electric crossovers, which distributes torque between axles in real time, improving handling by 30%. And in the interior design Nissan Ariya used the technique "asymmetry" (No. 4) - the center console is shifted towards the driver for better ergonomics.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about TRIZ
How to quickly master TRIZ from scratch?
Start by studying 10 most universal techniques (segmentation, dynamism, local quality, self-service, etc.). Practice on everyday tasks: for example, come up with 5 ways to improve an ordinary hanger using different techniques. Use patterns of contradictions (what gets worse as the parameter improves?) - this helps to formulate the problem more accurately.
Is it possible to use TRIZ in marketing?
Yes! For example:
- Reception "unification" (No. 5) - brands create collaborations (Nike × Off-White);
- Reception "copy" (No. 26) - use of memes in advertising;
- Reception "cheap fragility" (No. 27) - limited collections to create excitement.
Also reception "intermediary" (#24) explains the role of influencers in promotional campaigns.
What TRIZ techniques are used in IT?
Popular in software development:
- Reception "versatility" (No. 6) - cross-platform frameworks (Flutter);
- Reception "matryoshka" (No. 30) - nested functions and containers (Docker);
- Reception "feedback" (No. 23) - monitoring systems (Prometheus).
And the reception "slip" (No. 21) implemented in lazy loading — loading content as you scroll.
How to check that the solution complies with TRIZ?
Rate it according to the following criteria:
- Does it eliminate technical contradiction (improvement of one parameter without deterioration of another)?
- Does it use available resources (material, energetic, informational)?
- Is the solution minimum necessary (without redundant functions)?
If the answers are “yes”, you are on the right track!
Where can I find a database of patents for TRIZ analysis?
Use these resources:
- Google Patents — search by keywords and classes;
- Espacenet — European database with analytical tools;
- USPTO - US Patent Office with advanced search.
For TRIZ analysis, look for patent claims - they often contain explicit indications of the techniques used.