TRIZ: Problem-solving, Analysis, and Forecasting tool

 

Ir. Sugeng Endarsiwi

(ST., EMBA., IPM., ASEAN Eng., ACPE.)

 TRIZ: Problem-solving, Analysis, and Forecasting tool

TRIZ (pronounced “trees”) is a problem-solving, analysis, and forecasting tool derived from the study of patterns of invention in the global patent literature. Its purpose is to systematically foster innovation and creativity, especially in engineering and technical fields.

1. Purpose of TRIZ:

1. Solve complex problems creatively
   TRIZ helps users overcome technical contradictions and challenges by applying inventive principles.

2. Accelerate innovation
   It provides structured methods to generate breakthrough ideas without relying solely on brainstorming or trial-and-error.

3. Identify and eliminate contradictions
   TRIZ focuses on resolving contradictions (e.g., improving strength without increasing weight) which are often at the heart of technical problems.

4. Reuse proven solutions
   It draws from a database of thousands of patents and innovations to identify patterns and principles that can be applied to new problems.

5. Improve product and process design
   TRIZ is widely used in product development, manufacturing, and quality improvement to enhance performance and reduce costs.

Here’s a real-world example of how TRIZ can be applied:

2. Problem: Improving Windshield Wipers in Cars

Challenge: Traditional windshield wipers leave streaks and can wear out quickly. Designers wanted a solution that improves visibility without increasing mechanical complexity or cost.

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TRIZ Application:

1. Identify the contradiction:

   • We want better cleaning performance.
   • However, increasing pressure or speed wears out the wiper and motor faster.

2. Apply TRIZ Principle #28 – Mechanics Substitution:

   • Replace mechanical action with another method.

3. Innovative Solution:

   • Use hydrophobic coatings on the windshield that repel water, reducing the need for frequent wiping.
   • Some designs even use air jets or vibration to remove water droplets without traditional wipers.

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Result:

• Improved visibility.
• Reduced mechanical wear.
• Enhanced user experience with less maintenance.

3. TRIZ case example in Printing Ink Manufacturing:

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Problem: Ink drying time is too slow on non-porous substrates (e.g., plastic or coated paper)

Challenge:
In high-speed printing, slow drying leads to smudging, reduced print quality, and production delays. Traditional solutions like increasing heat or airflow can damage the substrate or increase energy costs.

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TRIZ Analysis:

1. Technical Contradiction:

   • We want fast ink drying.
   • However, increasing drying speed (e.g., heat) can damage sensitive substrates.

2. TRIZ Principle Applied:

   • Principle #35 – Parameter Changes: Change the physical state or composition of the ink.
   • Principle #10 – Preliminary Action: Prepare the substrate or ink in advance to improve performance.

3. Innovative Solution:

   • Develop UV-curable inks that dry instantly when exposed to ultraviolet light.
   • These inks remain liquid until printed, then cure rapidly under UV lamps without requiring heat.

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Result:

• Instant drying on non-porous surfaces.
• No damage to substrates.
• Higher production speed and reduced energy consumption.

4. TRIZ case example in the field of security ink manufacturing:

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Problem: Preventing Counterfeiting of Printed Documents Using Security Inks

Challenge:
Security inks must be visible under normal conditions but reveal hidden features under specific stimuli (e.g., UV light, heat, or chemicals). However, adding multiple detection features can complicate the ink formulation and increase production costs.

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TRIZ Analysis:

1. Technical Contradiction:

   • We want inks with multiple authentication features.
   • However, adding more features increases complexity and cost.

2. TRIZ Principles Applied:

   • Principle #3 – Local Quality: Modify only parts of the ink to have special properties.
   • Principle #24 – Intermediary: Use an intermediate layer or material to trigger a reaction.
   • Principle #32 – Color Change: Use materials that change color under specific conditions.

3. Innovative Solution:

   • Develop multi-functional security inks that:
     • Appear normal under daylight.
     • Reveal a second color under UV light.
     • Show a third reaction (e.g., fluorescence or thermochromism) when exposed to heat or solvents.
   • Use microencapsulation to isolate reactive components, reducing interference and simplifying formulation.

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Result:

• Enhanced document security with layered authentication.
• Reduced formulation complexity through smart material design.
• Lower production costs by combining multiple features in a single ink system.

Karawang, October 27, 2025