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Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) 229

new system. That is, level 4 breakthroughs use physical effects and phenomena
that had previously been little known 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 scientific
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. This type of solution
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, sub-
sequent applications or inventions occur at one of the four lower levels. For
example, the laser, a technological wonder of the 1960s, is now used
routinely as a lecturer’s pointer and a land surveyor’s measuring
instrument.

Based on the extensive studies of inventions, other major findings of TRIZ
include the following:
1. Through inductive reasoning on millions of patents and inventions, we
can find a very small number of inventive principles and strategies that
summarize most innovations.
2. Outstanding innovations are often featured by complete resolution of
contradictions, not merely a tradeoff and compromise on contradictions.
3. Outstanding innovations are often featured by transforming wasteful,
or harmful elements in the system, into useful resources.
4. Technological innovation trends are highly predictable.

9.1.1 What Is TRIZ?

TRIZ is a combination of methods, tools, and a way of thinking (Mann
2002). The ultimate goal of TRIZ is to achieve absolute excellence in design
and innovation. In order to achieve absolute excellence, TRIZ has five key
philosophical elements.

1. Ideality: This is the ultimate criterion for system excellence; it is
the maximization of the benefits provided by the system, and min-
imization of the harmful effects and costs associated with the
system.