Power Tools in System Engineer's Toolbox - Using TRIZ to Resolve Conflicts

Analysis of requirements, generation of architectural concepts, and definition of interfaces in system engineering are closely related to recognition and resolution of inevitable conflicts between different functions and requirements. As a rule, such conflicts are not resolved but rather alleviated through trade-offs or compromises, which reduces the overall system effectiveness.

The authors describe a compromise-free structured approach to resolving architectural and interface conflicts in automotive system using TRIZ methodology. The principles of TRIZ-based conflict-resolution are explained and examples of typical conflicts in automotive engineering and typical solutions given.