A Critical Comparison of Two Creativity Methods for Fostering Participatory Innovation: Implications to Improve TRIZ

We present an empirical study in which we contrast two creativity methods, the lateral thinking method and the improvisational theatre method, to investigate their applicability for advancing participatory innovation. While both of the contrasted methods aim to increase creativity as a means of improving participative innovation, they differ in terms of their conceptualisations of creativity, goals and processes. We propose that these two methods could complement the weaknesses of the TRIZ method (theory of inventive problem solving), especially in cases in which diverse experts gather to innovate, solve problems and generate new knowledge for shared goals. We illustrate the utilisation of the methods by reporting two creative development workshops. The paper sheds light on methods for fostering creative participatory innovation and highlights the collective nature of co-creation in participatory innovation. In addition, the paper suggests how the studied participative co-creative methods could be useful in improving the TRIZ method.Post-print / Final draf

Functionally Expanded Phase-Change Memory: Experiments on Light Influence on Threshold Voltage

We describe the first experimental results of a light influence on the threshold voltage Vt in new ternary lead-free telluride compound (labeled as SA1). Reduction of Vt on about 35% in SA1 illuminated by Ar ion laser to compare dark Vt is discovered. More than 10,000 switching cycles without degradation have been recorded. Variation of the laser power allows achieving Vt reduction in SA1 down to 40% from the dark level. This is the largest change of Vt known for amorphous chalcogenides. It opens new horizons for chalcogenide functionally expanded phase change memory. Some ideas about the mechanism of the observed effect, related with the photo-generation of charge carriers and possible mechanisms of transition from OFF state to ON state, are discussed

Deducing Altshuller’s Laws of Evolution of Technical Systems

Part 1: TRIZ Improvement: Theory, Methods and ToolsInternational audienceAccording to Genrich Altshuller and most of his students, his eight laws of technical systems evolution were found by systematic patent analysis. In this paper, we show that not a single patent must be studied to derive the very same eight laws, but rather that they follow from an analysis of the concept of artificial instrumental systems in the context of a competitive world with scarce resources. Our investigation yields a clear definition of ideality which—insofar as certain constraints are respected—indicates multiple trends underlying the evolution of systems towards increased competitiveness when resources are scarce. By making the truth conditions for each law explicit, we attempt to explain why some high generality patents from the 20th century contradict some of Altshuller’s laws. We conclude that although patents can be seen as a useful source for inspiration, validation and falsification of generalizations, they are not the most promising place to start to look for laws of system evolution, since mere induction from past examples cannot provide the justification needed to meaningfully inform engineers about how to develop systems in the future. Our approach suggest an alternative route for articulating and justifying such laws

Innovative Technical Creativity Methodology for Bio-Inspired Design

Part 7: TRIZ Combined with other ApproachesInternational audienceThe present research primarily focuses on building an effective rationalization of the knowledge which can be extracted from biological experts. To achieve such results, a structural framework, allowing knowledge integration from different fields at specific phases of the creative process is proposed. The formalized methodology along with its associated frameworks relies on principles from C-K Theory, TRIZ, and their links with biologically inspired design.To assess such design process methodology, an initial application within a case study has been implemented. This case study has been conducted through an industrial partnership with a Research & Development service department from a company working in the offshore oil production sector.But more than the concepts themselves, this new approach of biologically inspired design has emphasized, within this study case, an interesting potential in its propensity to quickly guide designers in accessing the most relevant knowledge from the biological field

Finding Innovative Technical Solutions in Patents Through Improved Evolution Trends

Abstract Patents represent a reservoir richly endowed with exploitable technical information, where a structured exploration of inventions can unveil essential knowledge for solving industrial problems. Several authors exploit patents using the evolution laws of the TRIZ theory to anticipate technological leaps, categorize patents in a TRIZ perspective, forecast technology, etc. TRIZ laws can be completed with Polovinkin’s rules, design rules, better known as “design heuristics,” and the rules of the art of engineering (engineering best practices). In this chapter, we propose evolution trends composed of all these elements and presented in the form of cards to assist users. After selecting pertinent patents, they can be classified into discovery matrices and analyzed in a timeline classification structured according to their technological branches. The evolution trends enable us to decipher the evolution in inventions being followed or to be followed by each technological branch. An in-depth analysis of several technological branches linked to the technical problem in question allows us to inspire users with original ideas, identify opportunities for innovation, and propose hybrid solutions. To illustrate our approach, we look for possible evolutions of current, deep offshore biphasic separation systems