40 inventive principles / #12
#12 Equipotentiality
What it says
- Change working conditions so the object does not need to be raised or lowered.
- Remove the need to fight a field or gradient by keeping things on one level.
Examples
- Software
- Keep services on the same version so no translation layer is needed.
- Business
- Flatten approval levels so requests do not move up and down the hierarchy.
- Engineering
- A mechanic's pit so the car does not need lifting.
- Everyday life
- Keep the things you use daily at arm height.
Where the matrix suggests it
The classic contradiction matrix suggests Equipotentiality in 32 of its 1,248 filled cells. Most often for these conflicts:
- Improving Weight of moving object worsens Power
- Improving Length of stationary object worsens Power
- Improving Duration of action of moving object worsens Ease of operation
- Improving Use of energy by moving object worsens Weight of moving object
- Improving Use of energy by moving object worsens Length of moving object
- Improving Use of energy by moving object worsens Shape
- Improving Use of energy by moving object worsens Loss of energy
- Improving Use of energy by moving object worsens Productivity