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Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) 283

Level 4: Invention outside technology
4 percent; new generation of design
using science not technology
Inventions at level 4 are found in science, not technology. Such break-
throughs represent about 4 percent of inventions. Tens of thousands of
random trials are usually required for these solutions. Level 4 inven-
tions usually lie outside the technology’s normal paradigm and involve
use of a completely different principle for the primary function. In level
4 solutions, the contradiction is eliminated because its existence is
impossible within the new system. Thus, level 4 breakthroughs use
physical effects and phenomena that had previously been virtually
unknown within the area. A simple example involves using materials
with thermal memory (shape-memory metals) for a key ring. Instead
of taking a key on or off a steel ring by forcing the ring open, the ring
is placed in hot water. The metal memory causes it to open for easy
replacement of the key. At room temperature, the ring closes.

Level 5: Discovery 1 percent; major
discovery and new science
Inventions at level 5 exist outside the confines of contemporary scien-
tific knowledge. Such pioneering works represent less than 1 percent
of inventions. These discoveries require lifetimes of dedication for they
involve the investigation of tens of thousands of ideas. The type of solu-
tion occurs when a new phenomenon is discovered and applied to the
invention problem. Level 5 inventions, such as lasers and transistors,
create new systems and industries. Once a level 5 discovery becomes
known, subsequent applications or inventions occur at one of the four
lower levels. For example, the laser (light amplification by spontaneous
emission of radiation), the technological wonder of the 1960s, is now
used routinely as a lecturer’s pointer and a land surveyor’s measuring
instrument.
Following extensive studies on inventions, other major findings of
TRIZ include

1. Through inductive reasoning on millions of patents and inventions,
TRIZ researchers found that most innovations are based on the appli-
cations of a very small number of inventive principles and strategies.
2. Outstanding innovations are often featured by complete resolu-
tion of contradictions, not merely a trade-off and compromise on
contradictions.
3. Outstanding innovations are often featured by transforming waste-
ful or harmful elements in the system into useful resources.
4. Technological innovation trends are highly predictable.