Mobilizing Function Resources

Copyright 2012, 2017 by Collaborative Authors, All rights reserved

Updated 11/18/2019 

This book is the work of a collaborative group. 

Contributors
Larry Ball (Primary Author)
David Troness
Kartik Ariyur
Jason Huang
Steve Hickman
Petr Krupansky
Larry Miller

Editors
Erika Ball
Larry Ball
David Troness
Paul Dwyer
Robert Lang

Illustrators
Larry Ball
David Troness

Other Authors, Theoreticians, Practitioners Whose Writings or Teachings have Impacted This Work
Genrich Altshuller
Ellen Domb
Roni Horowitz
John Terninko
Alla Zusman
Boris Zlotin
Lev Shulyak
Yuri Salamatov
Victor Fey
Eugene Rivin
Darrell Mann
Sergei Ikovenko
Simon Litvin
Peter Ulan
Lane Desborough
Clayton Christensen
Renee Mauborgne
Kim Chan

Much of the material for this book was inspired by the thought leaders referenced.  The original intent was to codify the insights of these thought leaders, but the exercise of codification ultimately led to the synthesis of other experimental processes.  This is because codification required recognizing patterns of similarity of tools.  Once this was achieved, the various tools were grouped with key decisions.  Decisions require and create information which flows to the next decisions.  Patterns and gaps became visible during this formative process.  Experimental methods were inserted into the gaps.   The proof of these experimental methods is whether they actually help the reader to identify product or process characteristics that will delight the market.

Prerequisite Knowledge: If you have not read the TRIZ Power Tools Working With Functions please do this before reading this book.

This book constitutes a comprehensive list of function parameters (knobs).  To understand this, think of each element of an isolated function as having a bunch of knobs on the product, the tool, the modification and the fields.  Each knob represents a parameter that can be changed to change the outcome of the function. The concept of knob may be objectionable to some, but is easily learned and so used in the text.   Apologies are made if the concept of “knobs” trivializes object and field parameters.

This table is a restructuring and reinterpretation of the parts of the “Inventive Standards[1]” which deal with function parameters.  Many of the standards give hints as to object and field parameters .  

Identifying Function Resources
The first use of this list of function parameters is to help determine what element parameters control the functions in question.  It is human nature to forget important controlling parameters until we ask ourselves if specific ones apply.  It is common that in using this table the problem solver will uncover several unanticipated ways to control functions.

Mobilizing Idle Knobs
During the causal analysis, you may have discovered parameters of the existing system that could have been used to control harmful or useful effects, but are not specifically controlled. These parameters may show up on the causal analysis diagram because they are a part of the equations. There is no escaping the fact that these parameters enter into the equation of friction, but from the viewpoint of human intent or potential usefulness, they remain idle. 

For example, the friction between two surfaces might currently be controlled by the clamping force between the surfaces.  Other parameters, such as the coefficient of friction, lubricants or surface texture determine the friction forces, but were not actively employed to control the friction.

There are various reasons that some knobs are not adusted to control a situation.   Some parameters are simply overlooked because they do not typically show up in formulas for friction.    For example, we may have forgotten that the number of objects sliding past each other or temperature might have an effect on the outcome. The number of objects is usually not a parameter in formulas for friction.

Another reason that a parameter may be overlooked is because changing it to improve one outcome may harm another.  For whatever reason, there are often parameters that could be used to provide a problem solution, but they remain idle.  The intent of this step in the algorithm is to put these idle resources to work to resolve the problem.

Method

Step 1:  Consider whether the parameters (knobs) in the following "accordions" have any affect on the function in question.  If it does, consider changing the level of the parameter to solve the problem without regard to what might get worse.

Explanation

Most of the time, an individual or team is capable of identifying the object parameters that control an interaction or how well a function is performed.  However, it has been the experience of the author that many interactions are controlled by parameters that we may have forgotten.  Here, we will consider many object, field and modification parameters to see if we have missed any.

How to change these parameters may also not be fully apparent.  Many clever solutions are related to how the knobs are turned.

Example—Acid Bath

The acid in the pans is meant to test the corrosive properties of various metals.  Unfortunately, it corrodes the pan that contains the acid and the cubes.

Step 1:  Consider whether the parameters (knobs) in the following "accordionas" have any affect on the function in question.  If it does, consider changing the level of the parameter to solve the problem without regard to what might get worse.

New knobs were found: (1) Acid contact area. (2) Surface area of pan.  Reducing the contact area and/ or the surface area of the pan will decrease the amount of material that is corroded.

Method

Step 1: Consider eliminating the tool, its source or its path.

Step 2: Consider eliminating the product, its source or its path.

Step 3: Consider removing the existence of the interaction site on the tool or product.

Step 4: Consider removing the micro-constituents that interact

Explanation

Existence of the tool or product is a controllable feature of the product. The existence of the product is not limited to the whole product, but can be extended to the existence of interaction zones and constituents of the objects involved.

Existence is a measurable parameter of objects. It is often neglected when mobilizing resources. Consider that objects or their parts may not be required to exist. Contradictions having to do with existence are often solved by transparency[5].

Method

Step 1: Do any of the following changes affect the outcome? (With each of these, new capabilities should emerge): --Number of tool objects --Number of product elements --Orientation of multiplied objects --Combining or interacting of multiplied objects --Combinations of objects that come in natural groupings --Multiply the product --Multiply the tool --Combine multiple objects in different orientations. New capabilities should emerge.

Step 2: Make the multiplied objects modify or interact with each other.  New capabilities should emerge.

Step 3: Nest[8] or stack the objects

System Evolution

System efficiency can be improved by moving from single elements to multiple elements. This progression can be from single to bi-systems to poly-systems.[6]  The efficiency can be further improved by transitioning to bi and poly-systems that have interaction between the multiplied elements.[7]  Efficiency can be further increased by using elements with “biased” properties. Each element is somewhat different from the others.

Explanation

When identifying object knobs, this is an object parameter that is often overlooked.  Objects collected together have interesting properties.  Simply collecting the objects together allows for interactions between objects. If the objects are similar, they have the ability to be used in different environments.

Method

Step 1: What different types of objects in the environment require the same function?

Step 2: Identify another effect/tool which performs the same function.

Step 3: What is the feature of the new tool which would extend the capability of the first tool?

          --Variety of size or features of multiplied objects?

          --Bias some of the objects to handle different operating conditions

Step 4: Identify the cheap tool which should deliver most of the function.

Step 5: Transfer the whole new tool or just the desirable feature of the new tool.

Step 6: Merge the tools. A new capability should emerge.

Step 7: Make the tools modify each other.  A new capability should emerge.

Explanation

System efficiency is increased when dissimilar objects are combined in ways that complement each other.[9]  This can begin with grouping biased objects and progresses to grouping together objects that are entirely different.

Multiple physical phenomena can be used to deliver a function.  This allows for the possibility that different types of objects can be involved in delivering a function.  These combined objects constitute hybrid tools. 

On the other end of the function, multiple object types can be served by the same function.  The parameter in question can be influenced by the type and number of objects delivering the function or receiving the function.

Method

Step 1: Define the entire location envelope for the tool and product (What space can the tool and product be located in?)

Step 2: Move the product about in higher dimensions. Are the fields affected?

Step 3: Where are the fields more concentrated?

Step 4: Where are the fields of interaction less concentrated?

Step 5: Would a completely different location affect the tool or product?

Step 6: Move the product and tool to environments that are conducive to their operation or where the environment is much better.

Explanation

An object parameter that is easily overlooked is the location of the object. The location of objects affects the operating environment. Many factors can be changed by simply changing the location of the objects.

Method

Step 1:  Locate the exact zone of the modification on the tool and product.

Step 2:  Does changing the location affect the fields of the function?

Step 3:  Make the interaction zone a completely benign region on the tool and product or make it the most effective part of the tool or product.

Step 4:  If the action degrades either the product or the tool, make sure that the location is not important.

Explanation

An object parameter that is sometimes missed is the location of the interaction zone on either the tool or the product.  The location of the interaction zone can change the substances and fields involved in the interaction.

Method

Consider the following changes:  Distance--Contact or separation--Location of contact--Mixing of tool and product--Absorption of tool into product--Combining the tool and product --Move the parts far away from each other--Try different distances from each other--Nestle[12] one into the other--Mix the tool and product--Combine the tool and product. Consolidate.[13]   Look for new capabilities--Combine with super-system.  Look for more consolidation, new capabilities and room for growth.

Explanation

With this knob, we consider the full range of possibilities from complete separation to fully merging the tool and product.  The relative location of the tool and product will almost certainly affect the fields of interaction.

Method

Step 1:  Consider how the interaction fields change as the tool and product move along their separate paths.

Step 2:  Consider how the fields change with respect to field potential[14] 

Step 3:  Consider CONSTANT POTENTIAL PATHS:  Path in relation to potential field lines of a field. 

Step 4:  Move along lines of constant field potential

Step 5:  Move directly through lines of constant field potential.

Step 6:  Move in an entirely new dimension[15].

Step 7:  Movement around harmful objects or functions

Step 8:  Rotation[16] rather than linear paths

Line of Evolution

Explanation

The paths that the tool and product move on will affect the interaction fields and cause them to change in time.  What is the path in relation to potential field lines of a field.  In order to perform lower work, it is necessary to move along lines of constant field potential.  An example of this is moving objects horizontally rather than up and down to avoid moving against gravity.  The lines of constant potential in the earth’s gravitational field are arcs with constant radius from the earth’s center. To us, this looks like horizontal movement. For an electrostatic field between two capacitor plates, the lines of constant potential (at the center) run nearly parallel to the plates.

Method

Consider the following changes:
--Velocity or relative velocity
--Stopping the tool or product
--Existence of acceleration
--Rate of change of the acceleration (jerk)
--Stop the tool or product
--Try extremely high or low rates of acceleration.

Explanation

This knob considers the absolute and relative velocity, acceleration and jerk (the rate of change of acceleration.  It turns out that humans are able to sense the change of acceleration and it can be quite uncomfortable if the jerk is high.)

Method

Step 1:  Locate the exact zone of the modification on the tool and product.

Step 2:  Does changing the structure change the efficiency of the interactions?

Step 3:  Make the interaction zone a completely benign region on the tool and product.

Step 4:  Change the structure of the interaction zone to compliment or augment the fields that are being used.

Explanation

Efficiency of systems increase when the interaction zones are structured to compliment the fields which are used to perform the functions.[17]

Method

Step 1:  Consider parameters or knobs which have already been identified.  Are they symmetrically located?

Step 2:  Consider changing the symmetry or asymmetry[19] of the tool and product to symmetrical or unsymmetricall.

Step 3:  Change symmetry to another axis

Step 4:  Make the tool or product unsymmetrical

Step 5:  Make the tool or product symmetrical

Explanation

Symmetry refers to how half of an object appears to be a reflection of the other half.  This reflection can be made around a variety of axis or planes.  As long as the reflection is exact about any plane, the object is said to be symmetric.  Symmetric objects can generate symmetric fields of interaction.  Objects tend to evolve towards un-symmetric structures which are usually more difficult to manufacture than symmetric objects.

Method

Does the dimension affect the interaction fields?

Consider changing the structure dimension[21] to the next higher dimension for useful effects and to lower dimensions for harmful effects.

Line of Evolution

Explanation

Efficiency of useful functions is increased by moving to higher dimensions[20].  Harm done by harmful functions is decreased by decreasing the dimension of the harming interface.  Systems which produce useful functions tend to evolve to higher dimensions.  Structures which produce harmful functions tend to evolve to lower dimensions.  Lower dimensional structures tend to have more minimum fields. 

Method

Step 1:  Consider putting objects inside each other to change the volume requirements

Step 2:  Make one object go through another

Step 3:  Nest an object completely inside another

Step 4:  Allow one object to invade the space of another by nestling in to its volume.

Explanation

Unless the main function of the system requires a high volume in order to perform well,  this can be accomplished by nesting [22]objects, nestling them together or making one go through the other.

Method

Step 1:  Would increasing the number of interaction sites improve the function? Can the sites be independent?

Step 2:  Consider the affect that the following would have on the segmented pieces: 

             --Dividing into multiple copies of the original objects--Size--Shape--Aspect Ratio

Step 3:  Make the sites independent

Step 4:  Break the original piece into sections that can be easily dismantled and assembled.

Step 5:  Make multiple copies of the original objects.  Reduce in size.  Combine or make interact

Step 6:  Change the shape of the segmented pieces

Step 7:  Change to a powder or aerosol

Methods of segmenting:

--Decompose:  Grains—Dust—Molecules—Atoms—Ions—Sub Atomic Particles

--Combine:  Sub Atomic Particles—Ions—Atoms—Molecules—Dust—Grains

--Solidify a liquid or its constituents into particles

Line of Evolution

Explanation

The efficiency of systems generally increases with segmentation of the elements.    Methods for creating particles are provided in the standard solutions.[24]

Method

Step 1: Consider the affect of the following changes to the tool or product:  --Voids --Porosity--Structured capillaries--Fluids in voids or capillary structures

Step 2: Place specially shaped voids in the tool or product (honeycomb, spherical, random)

Step 3: Use open or closed celled porous materials

Step 4: Consider using: --Sintered powders--Dried or fired clays--Porcelain--Sand--Loose Powders--Pumice

Step 5: Make the tool or product from structured capillary materials such as:

--Fabrics--Fiber batting--Fiber bundles (thread, string, rope…)--Screen or layers of screens--Capillary tubes or tube bundles

Step 6: Fill the porous material with special fluids or allow fluids to move through the porous material.

Step 7: Replace the tool or product with a foam

Step 8: Put foam between the tool and the product

Line of Evolution

Explanation

Voids [25] capillary structures[26] [27] and foam [28] [29] [30] can have an effect on interactions between objects.  It should be noted that the difference between voids and foam is one of ratio between gas and substance. Foam has very little substance and voids have little gas.  Capillary structures are somewhere between and can be very structured.

Method

Step 1: Does the thickness of the tool or the product affect the function?

Step 2: Replace solid constructions with flexible membranes

Step 3: Isolate objects with thin films[31]

Explanation

The thickness or the length of an object can have a strong effect on interacting fields.  In general, objects trend toward smaller lengths and thicknesses as they evolve which makes a better use of resources.  When taken together, the length to width ratio gives an aspect ratio.  Any one of these three measures of an object may dominate as the controlling factor.

Method

Step 1: Does the volume of the tool or the product affect the function?

Step 2: Consider changing the volume of the tool or product. Consider extreme changes in volume.

Explanation

Objects may start with large volumes because the strength of interacting fields may be a strong function of the size. However, they trend toward smaller volumes [32] [33] to conserve resources unless their main function is to transport, in which case, the trend is toward greater volumes.

Method

Step 1: Does the curvature of the tool or product affect the outcome?

Step 2: Change from linear shapes to curved shapes

Step 3: Use rollers or balls

Step 4: Change from linear to rotary motion

Explanation

The use of spherical structures is a very important tool in TRIZ.  Curved structures[34] have special properties. They allow for the precise rotation of objects relative to each other. They also allow for the concentration or dispersion of fields in unique ways.  While the constant curvature of objects is very common, non constant curvatures, such as parabolas and ellipses and hyperbolas have unique characteristics.

Method

Step 1: Identify the primary fields of interaction

Step 2: Reference the chart to identify what surface properties might have an effect on the fields of interaction.

Step 3: How does the surface shape affect the fields of interaction?

Step 4: Make the surface smooth if it is not already

Step 5: Make ridges, protrusions or cavities in the surface of the tool or product (Random or structured)

Step 6: Make the surface of the tool or product rough (random or structured)

Step 7: Use a finer and finer surface roughness

Line of Evolution

Explanation

Many functions are controlled by the surface structure[35] of objects. Surface shapes can be rough or smooth. They can also have a fine structure. Surface shapes can have a strong effect on reflection, transmission and dispersion of electromagnetic fields. Many other properties of objects can be changed at the surface in ways that have a strong effect on interaction fields. The table on the next page shows how other properties can effect various fields.

Method

Step 1: Identify the primary fields of interaction

Step 2: Reference the chart to identify what surface properties might have an effect on the fields of interaction.

Step 3: Greatly increase the surface properties.

Step 4: Change to new materials or coatings if necessary

Explanation

Fields of interaction are modified and controlled surface properties other than surface structure. The table on the previous page gives suggestions as to surface properties that can modify fields of interaction.

Method

Step 1: Can contaminants (solids, liquids or gases) find a way to the surface? (Internal or external paths)

Step 2: Greatly decrease the surface contaminants until the surface is ultra-clean

Step 3: Greatly increase the contaminants

Step 4: Add a lubricant to the surface

Step 5: Condense a liquid onto the surface

Explanation

Substances can exist on surfaces which modify the fields of interaction. Such substances can be put there for useful purposes or they can be contaminants.  Over the course of time, it is almost a certainty the some type of contaminant will find its way to the surfaces of the product or tool.

Method

Consider how the following changes of the physical state[36]  [37]of the tool or product might affect the interaction or fields:

---State of the tool--Consider changing

---State of the Product--Consider changing

---State of the Environment--Consider changing

Line of Evolution

Explanation

Note that state of matter controls most fields.  Most substances exist in multiple physical states, even if one of the states is barely perceptible.  Because of this, it is possible that the different states of matter will react differently with the fields of interaction.  These controlling factors are even stronger when multiple states of matter exist.  Look at every tool or product as being composed of at least two states of matter and consider whether less dominant state might be having an effect on the interactions.

Method

Step 1: Identify the current fields throughout the tool or product.

Step 2: What materials are affected by these fields?

Step 3: What are their bulk properties(Properties spread throughout the volume?)

Step 4: Do the bulk properties change these fields?

Step 5: Do the bulk properties have an effect on the functions being performed?

Step 6: Change the product or tool to be composed of a substance with the ideal bulk properties.

Step 7: Introduce a substance to the product or tool which has the ideal properties for control.[43]

Step 8: Attach a substance to the product or tool which has the ideal properties for control.[44]

Step 9: Introduce a substance into the environment of the tool or product which allows the ideal properties for control.[45]

Step 10: Change the bulk properties by chemically transforming, decomposing, and combining existing materials or by heat treatment.[46]

Step 11: Further enhance by adding a field.

Explanation

Substances of the product and the tool have many native bulk properties[38]   Generally, we would like the substances to have a strong effect on the useful interaction fields and a weak effect on the harmful fields.  Below is a table of bulk properties. Each property reflects its typical reaction to interacting fields.

Substances of the product and the tool have many native bulk properties[39] [40] [41].  These properties can have strong effects on the interaction fields.  In general, it is important that the bulk substances interact strongly with useful fields and weakly with harmful fields.  Below is a table of bulk properties.  Each property reflects its typical reaction to interacting fields. 

Method

Step 1: If the addition of substances is not allowed, a number of ways are provided in the Solution Standards to add these substances.  Feel free to go to the references from the Standards for further explanation. [47]

--Use a void instead of a substance

--Use a Field instead of a substance

--Use a Field already existing within the system

--Use a Field within the Job Environment

--Use a Field which Compliments existing system fields

--Use a substance from the environment

--Temporarily introduce substances and elements

--Use disposable or cheap objects and substances

--Use active additives

--Use a copy

Step 2: Change the bulk properties by chemically transforming, decomposing, and combining existing materials or by heat treatment.[48]

Explanation

Sometimes it is not possible to add a desired substance.  The methods allow for the addition of a substance without actually adding the substance.  In effect, this directly resolves a contradiction.

Method

Step 1: If the addition of substances is not allowed, a number of ways are provided in the Solution Standards to add these substances.  Feel free to go to the references from the Standards for further explanation. [47]

--Use a void instead of a substance

--Use a Field instead of a substance

--Use a Field already existing within the system

--Use a Field within the Job Environment

--Use a Field which Compliments existing system fields

--Use a substance from the environment

--Temporarily introduce substances and elements

--Use disposable or cheap objects and substances

--Use active additives

--Use a copy

Step 2: Change the bulk properties by chemically transforming, decomposing, and combining existing materials or by heat treatment.[48]

Explanation

Sometimes it is not possible to add a desired substance.  The methods allow for the addition of a substance without actually adding the substance.  In effect, this directly resolves a contradiction.

Method

Step 1: Are the tool and product alike?

Step 2: Do the bulk properties match each other?

Step 3: For the given situation, consider the properties that must match in the tool and product.

Step 4: Consider the following and how well matched the tool and product are:

--Thermal expansion

--Thermal Conductivity

--Electrical Conductivity

--Modulus of Elasticity

Step 5: Match or mismatch tool and product properties, especially if they are in contact or must move or expand together

Step 6: Make the product and tool from the same materials if possible

Explanation

When substances must touch each other, a matching of properties is often necessary to avoid harm.  For example, having two substances clamped together with different thermal expansion coefficients can lead to high stresses or high levels of friction.  The tool and product should match the properties that matter the most.  Not every property is required to match.  For instance, clamping two substances with different densities may be fine so long as the thermal coefficients match under conditions of large temperature swings.  Examples of properties that are often considered are: Thermal expansion[49], Thermal Conductivity, Electrical Conductivity, Modulus of Elasticity

Method

Step 1: Consider the bulk constituents. Can they be made non-uniform[51]?

Step 2: How would a material gradient affect the internal fields?

Step 3: Allow a gradation or mixture gradient[52] of material constituents

Step 4: Allow a sharp gradation of material constituents

Step 5: Add a new material and allow the gradient to vary

Explanation

The gradient of any property is its rate of change with respect to distance.  High gradients change from one value to another over a very short distance. In this case, we are considering the gradient of substance components. An additive to a substance can have a high gradient and thus, the properties vary across the object. This is sometimes important in the control of fields and is similar to the concept of asymmetry of structures in controlling fields.

Method

Step 1:  Consider how chemically reactive the Product is to the Tool. [53]

Step 2: Increase Chemical Activity

Step 3: Change to very active chemical substances:

--Use progressively activated oxygen[54].

--Ambient Air

--Oxygenated Air

--Pure Oxygen

--Ionized Oxygen

--Ozone

--Singlet Oxygen

Step 4: Change the tool or product to an inert substance[55]

Step 5: Introduce inert gases[56]

Step 6: Introduce or mix in inert substances[57]

Step 7: Use a vacuum

Explanation

The chemical activity is a reference to how chemically active the tool is to the product under a given condition.  This has greatest emphasis when the main useful functions are involved in a chemical reaction between the tool and the product.  The chemical reactivity can be boosted by thermal fields or electrical currents.

Method

Step 1: Identify substances and constructions which react strongly to the existing fields or fields which would react strongly to the existing substances.

Step 2: Identify other fields in the environment.

Step 3: Consider assisting fields or counter fields that could be superimposed into, onto or in the environment of the objects?

Step 4: Consult the table of Storage of Fields for consideration of residual fields.

Step 5: Introduce a field into the system that performs the required action.[60]

Step 6: Superimpose a counter field

Step 7: Superimpose an assisting field[61]

Step 8: Superimpose a new field type

Step 9: Pre-stress the parts

Explanation

There are a variety of reasons to add fields[58].  Whenever it is necessary to introduce a field, it should be done in a way that requires the least use of resources.  The Solution Standards shown in the references below, give a variety of ways to introduce fields without increasing system complexity.[59]

Method

Step 1: What medium surrounds or is between the tool and product?

Step 2: Draw field potential lines and gradients

Step 3: How does the conductivity of the medium affect the interaction?

Step 4: What medium is between the tool and product?

Step 5: Is the conductivity of the medium adjustable?

Step 6: Should a different medium be used?

Step 7: Change the conductivity of the medium by using concentrated additives

Step 8: Change the gradient of conductivity

Step 9: Change to a different medium with higher or lower conductance

Step 10: Shorten the flow path

Step 11: Decrease flow transformations

Step 12: Change the number of turns

Step 13: Increase or decrease the field intensity from the tool

Step 14: Use an intermediate substance to shield, amplify or decrease the field

Step 15: Change the conductivity of the mediator

Explanation

The conductance[62] of the medium in which the fields must operate can control the affect of the function. The medium refers to the substance that contains the tool or product whether that be a solid, liquid or gas or even a vacuum. The conductivity of the medium can have a strong impact on the fields and their distribution in space. For instance, electromagnetic fields would be strongly influenced by electrically conductive materials in the vicinity.

Method

Step 1: Identify the field gradients and potential lines

Step 2: Identify the field direction as being perpendicular or orthogonal to the field gradient lines.

Step 3: Is the field direction important?

Step 4: What would happen if the fields were reversed[64]? 

Step 5: Identify whether the field direction is important to the function at hand.

Step 6: Does varying the field direction in time affect the function?

Step 7: Consider reversing the fields

Step 8: Change to the ideal field direction.

Step 9: Identify the field gradient and potential

Step 10: Does varying the field direction affect the function?  Vary the field direction

Explanation

Field direction[63] refers to the direction that actions will take when influenced by a field. If one knows the field gradient, then the field direction is perpendicular to the field gradient lines. The direction of a magnetic field between two infinite plates emanates perpendicular to the two parallel surfaces and is related to the charge of the plates (assuming constant charge distribution). The field direction has a direct effect on the function of the tool on the product.

Method

Step 1:  Draw the field gradients and field potential lines as they currently exist.  Consider the following:--Concentration of the field--Rate of change of field gradient--Coherence of field--Interference of field--Field Scatter

Step 2:  Move to higher dimensions[68].

Step 3:  Change the dimension of the affected area of the product

Step 4:  Use heat to change the refractive index

Step 5:  Sharply change the field gradient to eliminate harmful functions

Step 6:  Make the Field Coherent

Explanation

System efficiency can often be improved by moving from uniform fields to fields with structure.  [67]Field gradient refers to how rapidly a field changes at a point in space.  High field gradients mean that the field strength changes rapidly at that point.  The efficiency or harm of functions is often related to the uniformity of fields or the structure of the fields. [65] [66]

Method

Step 1:  Identify substances and constructions which react strongly to the existing fields or that aid or harm the existing interaction

Step 2:  Identify fields which would react strongly to the existing substances.

Step 3:  Indentify where the fields reside.  Do they reside within; on the surface of; or in the environment of the tool or product?

Explanation

Field location refers to the existence and location of fields in the system and their effect on the functions being performed.  Fields which exist in the system can contribute to harm or to good.  For instance, the presence of heat during friction can cause chemical reactions to occur in rubbing components or even other attached components.  If we were studying the chemical interaction between the tool and the object, then we would necessarily be interested in the thermal fields generated by the friction.  Considering the location of the fields adds to our understanding of what is happening.  The fields can be on the inside of objects, on their surface or in the surrounding medium.  It is important to understand where these field exist and the level of the fields in each location.  The concept of being aware of field location[69] [70] comes from TRIZ standards.

Method

Step 1: Can the field be broken into various components by direction, Frequency or Variety of Fundamental Fields?

Step 2: Identify the truly useful components

Step 3: What properties of the product or tool affect the variety of field components?--Transmission of frequency--Absorption of frequency--Reflection of frequency--Anisotropy of Medium--Resonance properties of medium

Step 4: Break the field into various components:  --Variety of field directions--Frequency--Variety of Fundamental Fields

Step 5: Separate out the useful components

Step 6: Use a different Color: Filter field or reflect only certain frequencies

Step 7: Change the receptivity of the product to certain field components

Step 8: Search the Table of Effects for ways to separate field components

Step 9: Move to a higher dimension[72] to enhance the filter.

Explanation

Various parts can be operating in different directions.  It is possible to separate[71] out the different field components by the methods shown.Many fields come as combinations of different field regimes.  For instance sunlight is a continuation of frequencies which can be separated into different frequencies.  Some field components may be harmful or less useful.  It is also possible that more regimes can be helpful.

Method

Step 1: Are important control parameters adjustable?

Step 2: Which of the features of the tool, product or field can be made adjustable[75]?

Step 3: Make adjustable to adapt to each stage of operation.[76]

Step 4: Make self-adjusting according to operating conditions.  Immobile objects become mobile. 

Step 5: Place joints in the tool or product.  Increase the number of joints 

Step 6:  If a parameter is already adjustable, increase the degrees of freedom.

Step 7:  Make several controlling parameters adjustable

Step 8:  Make an existing or new parameter continuously adjustable.

Line of Evolution

Line of Evolution Adjustable Features

Line of Evolution for Continuity of Adjustment

Explanation

The efficiency of systems is generally increased by increasing the degrees of freedom[73] and ultimately the flexibility. [74] Adjustability first comes from the increase in degrees of freedom.  This can occur by adding a joint or making an object flexible.  It can come from increasing the number of variables that are varied in order to control a final result.

Method

Step 1: Everything is flexible.  Look at the system as a collection of springs, masses and dampers.

Step 2: Consider the flexibility of the tool and how it affects the fields relating to the problem..

Step 3: Consider the flexibility of the product and how it affects the fields relating to the problem.

Step 4: Consider the direction of flexibility and how it affects the fields relating to the problem.

Step 5: Consider how the state of matter affects the flexibility.

Step 6: Change the flexibility of the tool.

Step 7: Change the flexibility of the product.

Step 8: Change the direction of flexibility.

Step 9: Make very flexible by transforming to a liquid or gas.

Explanation

Everything is flexible[77] . Look at the system as a collection of springs, masses and dampers that go in every direction, sort of like bed springs.  Materials are flexible in all directions, however the structure of an object will make it more flexible in some directions.  The flexibility of the tool or product can affect the adjustability of the interaction or make the system more robust.  Remember that the state of matter affects the flexibility of materials.

Method

Step 1: Does the feature have a natural critical condition or threshold, such as boiling point or Curie temperature?

Step 2: Can a critical condition or threshold be created for a feature which does not normally have one, such as a bi-stable condition?

Step 3: If the function is useful, operation near the critical condition can trigger large results.

Step 4: If the function is harmful, operating far away from the critical point reduces the effect.   This can be used to switch off the harmful field[80].

Step 5: Operate near or far from the critical condition

Explanation

For many physical phenomena, there are critical points[78] which cause an abrupt change of properties when they are crossed. For example, when the temperature of water reaches the boiling point, large amounts of vapor are generated. Many of the properties of water vapor and water are different.  We can think of the boiling point of water as a critical point. When interactions occur near critical points, more effect occurs for smaller changes in inputs. Thus, efficiency of system operation can be increased by operating near critical points.

Phase Transitions[79] are another example of critical points.  To the right is a non-exhaustive table of critical points for various physical phenomena. One can often construe a critical point for nearly every physical phenomenon.

Method

Step 1: Identify current direction of action.

Step 2: Does the direction of action have an effect on the function?

Step 3: Reverse the direction of action[81]

Step 4: Change from linear to rotary motion.

Step 5: Change from rotary to linear motion.

Step 6: Go 90 degrees to the current direction

Explanation

This is not to be confused with the direction of fields.  The direction of action is the direction of the resulting interaction between the tool and the product.  For instance, if the product moves, it is the direction of movement.

Method

Step 1: Try different rotational[82] orientations, relative to each other.

Step 2: Consider differences between linear and rotary motion.

Step 3: Change the orientation of the tool to the product

Explanation

The relative orientation is how the product and tool “face” each other.  To the right of the diagram is shown a non-exhaustive variety of orientations.  Do they both face the same or opposite directions?  Are they crosswise of each other?  The relative orientation is another way of looking at the orientation of the fields of action.

Method

Step 1: What is the action performed relative to?

Step 2: What constitutes the reverse of the current action?

Step 3: Change the relative action

Step 4: Perform the reverse action

Step 5: Place parts upside down or backward

Step 6: Make moving parts stationary

Explanation

Reversal of action[84]refers to doing the opposite action rather than the action that is being performed. We could say that instead of pushing we pull, but it needs to be thought of as more than this. What we are saying is that if an action is performed, it is performed relative to something.  That something changes instead. Instead of the mechanic moving to get under the car, the car is lifted relative to the mechanic.  A collar is heated to expand it to go over a rod.  Now the rod is cooled so that the collar can fit over it.

Method

Step 1: Draw the field lines and the equipotential lines[85]

Step 2: Does either object move or rotate[86] through a field gradient?

Step 3: What direction do they move relative to the gradient?

Step 4: Make objects move along equipotential lines

Step 5: If either object already moves along equipotential lines, changing the field slightly can make the function adjustable. How can the fields be changed?

Step 6: Avoid lifting.

Explanation

When objects move, they not only move relative to other objects, but they also move relative to fields and field gradients. Gravity is a field gradient. The closer we get to the earth, the greater its pull. When we move relative to field gradients, we do work which is usually a burden on the system. Moving up or down in a gravity field requires work which is proportional to the distance moved.  Fortunately, this is reversible since gravity is a field that conserves energy. No matter how we move in the field, it always retains the same direction, making the energy flow reversible. Since it takes work to move across field gradients, it is often possible to move along field gradients and avoid performing work. For instance, if motion can be done in such a way that neither moves up or down, then the work performed against gravity is not required. An example of this is the movement of heavy objects on wheels or rotated on their center of gravity. Acceleration of the mass, either rotationally or horizontally requires energy, but no energy is required to move it up or down. The same is true of many other field types that are conserving. Some field types are not conserving. For instance, fields which change with a change of direction of motion. Friction is a notorious example of this. Energy lost by friction is difficult to recover for this reason. The question that we are asking with this tool is: are we moving along gradient lines or against them which requires energy input.

Method

Step 1: Does the Tool Follow a Path?  If the tool follows a path, make the Tool perform the function on the entire path, both coming and going?

Step 2: Does the Tool perform the function on the entire path, both coming and going?

Step 3: Is the function at full load (always operating)?  If the function is not at full capacity, find a way to ensure that it is operating all the time.  Eliminate the downtimes.

Step 4: Have dummy runs and downtimes been eliminated?  Eliminate all dummy runs and downtimes.

Explanation

Efficiency of a function is a function of the percentage of time that the function is performed[88].  If the attribute that is being examined has to do with efficiency of operation or the overall value of the function performed, then this feature of timing will have a controlling effect.

Method

Step 1: Process Map the changing conditions over time.

Step 2: Does the requirement for the function vary over time?

Step 3: If the process is continuous, can it be changed to periodic action[89]?

Step 4: Could other tools help out at another time?

Step 5: If the modification is performed as a step in a process, can the sequence be varied?

Step 6: Change the Sequence

Step 7: Change the time

Step 8: Perform during transportation or while queued or waiting

Step 9: Temporarily turn the function off

Step 10: Introduce a temporary blocking. (Should be taken away by resources only)

Step 11: Make the product temporarily insensitive

Step 12: Temporarily move the product away

Explanation

Sometimes the only difference between a harmful function and a useful function is when it is performed.  If the conditions under which a function occurs can change with time, then so can the variables that control the outcome.

Method

Step 1:  Can the modification be broken into two (or more) stages?

Step 2:  Can the operation be broken into parallel processes?

Step 3:  Separate the modification into two or more serial stages

Step 4:  Separate the operation into parallel stages

Step 5:  Perform setup at the same time as the operation.

Step 6:  Implies use of a previously placed tool

Explanation

Functions are shorthand for processes.  Any function can be separated into parts.  The efficiency of a function may be controlled by when the parts of a function are performed.  It is possible to perform part[91] of a function at one time and the rest at other times.  It is also possible to perform parts of the function at the same time or in parallel.

Method

Step 1: Identify other functions performed on the tool, product and field.

Step 2: Does uncoupling these other functions affect the interaction?

Step 3: Would coupling other functions such as vibration affect the outcome?

Step 4: Couple or uncouple other functions such as vibration.

Explanation

With a function diagram of the system, it is possible to see all of the functions that other objects perform, both inside and outside the system.  If an object performs a function in the system, it is sometimes possible to have that object perform a similar function on other system objects.  It is also possible to decouple functions (both useful and harmful).

Method

Step 1: Are all parts of the system at full load?

Step 2: Have dummy runs and downtimes been eliminated?

Step 3: What else in the system requires the same modification?

Step 4: Is it possible to change functions between objects?

Step 5: Move to uninterrupted operation

Step 6: Make the tool operate on other similar products

Step 7: Modify the tool to operate on diverse products.

Explanation

Systems are more efficient when operations are performed continuously[92].  This may require that a tool in the system be capable of handling biased products or even different products that require the function.  This is particularly true for systems that manufacture goods.

Method

Step 1: Identify incompatible operations

Step 2: Identify their timing relative to each other.  Is the timing necessary?

Step 3: Identify pauses in each operation

Step 4: Identify how one operation might be employed in pauses of the other.

Explanation

Efficiency is increased when one incompatible operation is performed during the pauses of the other.[93]  [94]

Method

Step 1: Identify the main fields of the function.

Step 2: Consult below table for ways to store this field

Step 3: Is this field stored, even for an instant in the tool, product or in space? (Is there a lag between field generation and application?)

Step 4: Is there energy storage in oscillations?

Step 5: Does storage improve the function?

Step 6: Consult the next page for ways to store this field

Step 7: Is this field stored, even for an instant in the tool, product or in space? (Is there a lag between field generation and application?)

Step 8: Is there energy storage in oscillations?  Consider storing in oscillations.

Step 9: Can storage be a mediator between the tool and product?

Step 10: Store the field in the lag between field generation and application

Explanation

Many actions are “stored” or at least delayed in their delivery.  As stated, the timing of actions has much to do with how harmful or useful they are.  An action can be harmful because it is delayed or not.  Here we consider what storage or delay action currently exists.  In particular, it is possible that actions are already being stored in field storage elements of the system, or they are slowly building up due to oscillations of the function.

Method

Step 1: Story board or process map the process.

Step 2: What actions can be performed more completely if the action is performed more slowly?

Step 3: What actions can be excluded if the function is performed more rapidly.  If the modification were performed more rapidly[95], would other harmful functions be precluded?

Step 4: How are the fields changed by performing the modification at different speeds?

Step 5: If the modification were performed more rapidly, would other harmful functions be precluded?

Step 6: Slow the function way down (hours, days, weeks, months, years)[96]

Step 7: Perform the modification very rapidly[97] to preclude harmful or hazardous functions.

Explanation

The speed at which an action is performed can have a strong impact on many sub-steps to the action.  Since all interactions and functions are processes and functions are shorthand for processes, there may be several steps that occur when an action is performed.  Performing an action very rapidly may preclude other actions from occurring at the same time.  Performing it very slowly may allow for other actions to be performed during the action time or, at least, performed more completely.

Method

Step 1: Is it not possible to perform a function continuously? Is existence of the function controlled by whether it is discrete or continuous?

Step 2: Can the Tool be Multiplied or segmented[99] into separate pieces?

Step 3: Can each piece move into action in discrete steps or into fixed positions or amplitudes.

Step 4: If the action is discrete, can it be made continuous?

Step 5: Continuous actions move to discrete actions

Step 6: Multiply or segment the tool into separate pieces.

Step 7: Each piece moves into action in discrete steps or into fixed positions or amplitudes.

Step 8: Discrete actions move to continuous actions

Explanation

When it is difficult to perform a useful function at all, the ability to perform it may be a function of continuity. Generally, functions move from discrete instances to continuous operation. In order to create a function, it may be necessary to go through the discrete[98] stage first in order to perform it at all.

Method

Step 1: How is the interaction affected if you could continuously vary the action in time?

Step 2: If it can be continuously varied, consider pulsing the action.

Step 3: Shape the curve

Step 4: Square pulse the action

Step 5: Shape the pulse.

Step 6: Make the pulse travel.

Explanation

The outcome of a function may be controlled by the variation in timing or the shape[100] of the application of fields. Functions become more efficient when the fields become more controllable and can vary as the conditions vary.

Method

Step 1: What oscillations[101] [102] are already occurring in the tool, product, action (modification) or fields?  Look for small oscillations or oscillations within the bulk matter itself.

Step 2: Is the interaction affected by pulsing or oscillating the tool, product or field?

Step 3: Is a feature or an attached object of the tool or product being oscillated?

Step 4: How do the natural frequencies of the tool and product affect the interaction?

Step 5: Can a feature or knob of the tool, product or field be oscillated?

Step 6: How do the natural frequencies of the tool and product affect the interaction?  Increase or decrease the frequency.

Step 7: Pulsate or oscillate the tool, product, field or product receptivity.

Step 8: Make the tool, product or field resonate

Step 9: Create standing waves

Step 10: Cancel oscillations in the tool, product or field

Step 11: Mismatch the product natural frequency with the tool driving frequency

Line of Evolution

Explanation

All matter and many fields oscillate.  The oscillations may be very small and sometimes nearly undetectable.  Assume that the objects of study are oscillating.  Actions can be stored or amplified by oscillating the action, the object or the tool.  Here we consider whether oscillations are taking place and what controls these oscillations.System efficiency is improved by matching the oscillation of fields to the natural frequency of objects being acted upon.[103] [104] [105] Efficiency can also be improved by matching or mismatching the frequency of the fields that are being used.[106]

Example: To coat a part with a material, the material is applied as a powder. To provide a high degree of regularity, the frequencies of pulses of an electrical current and pulses of magnetic field are made equal.