TRIZ-supported development of an allocation system for sheet metal processing: A one-day case study

Abstract

This case study presents the new development of an allocation system by using TRIZ tools. The allocation of sheet metal parts for further treatment is currently done manually. The demand for decreasing station times to utilize the processing machine to its full capacity brought up the need for a partially automated allocation system. Because of the high requirements regarding process reliability, safety, robustness, maintainability, and asset costs, a systematic approach using TRIZ tools was necessary for developing a successful solution concept. The concept definition was achieved during a 1-day workshop with developers with no prior training in TRIZ. The workshop was conducted by two TRIZ facilitators, who lead the developers through several stages of a TRIZ-based process: the first step covered the clarification of the task, the customer requirements, and specific company guidelines. Then analytical tools of TRIZ were used to structure the task and identify key problems and development obstacles. After that, TRIZ solution tools were utilized to develop ideas which were finally combined into a qualified, capable solution concept. The article shows how TRIZ tools sped up the process of task analysis, problem identification, and solution generation significantly.