Use of synectics as an idea seeding technique to enhance design creativity

An approach to generate creative design employing synectics is presented. The integrated use of TIPS (theory of inventive problem solving), along with a knowledge base of physical, chemical and biological phenomena and effects provided by IM-TechOptimizer/sup TM/ and a robust engineering design methodology is the core of this proposed new creative design. This concept is based on the hypothesis that a multitude of new design options can be generated quickly. Creative design is the natural outcome of the lateral integrated design approach. The approach starts with the clarification of the term "requirements". The creativity domain process is defined as the means for generating new ideas and concepts. Functional modeling analysis is considered as the most desired analytical tool to identify the right problem to be solved. The identification of contradictions as problems indicates the design concept solution category to be generated. The contradiction metrics and standard solutions use mental analogy and metaphorical thinking as a process described by a synectics idea generation process. The inclusion of the ideal function concept is described for creativity measurement. The closer the new concept performs related to the ideal performance, the higher the grade of the new creative design. The ranking of the newly generated multitude of concepts relative to the ideal performance is presented as a structured approach of selecting creative design concepts or as a technology road map. The parametric design and evaluation of functional performance is viewed as a robust engineering design implementation and optimization.