Concept Generation Support with Linkage of Externalization-Classification-Finding Void Cycle and Theory of Solving Inventive Problems

Abstract

Generation of new concepts in product design process serves as driving force of innovation. The authors’ previous work proposed ECF (Externalization, Classification and Finding voids) cycle as a model of designers’ thinking process in idea generation. This research proposes a new method of idea generation based on the ECF cycle incorporating the theory of solving inventive problems (TRIZ). A case study of idea generation of new running shoes is demonstrated in order to verify the ability of the proposed method.