Analogical Thinking

I-TRIZ operators are presented as generic suggestions. The operators are applied using analogical thinking. To use an I-TRIZ operator:

STEP 1: Read the operator's recommendation. Read the accompanying illustration to be sure you clearly understand the operator. Then, "hold" these two things in your mind simultaneously: the operator's recommendation, and the system you are working with.

STEP 2: Mentally map the operator's recommendation to your system by creating a series of mental images that "force" a relationship between the system and the recommendation. If one image doesn't work, choose another, then another, and so on.

STEP 3: Write down any and all ideas - even stupid or crazy ones - that result.

Example: The figure shown describes the process of applying the operator partitioning followed by integration to the problem of improving the design of an ax.