Exploring TRIZ contradiction analysis in design for additive manufacturing: insights from expert interviews

ABSTRACT: This paper examines whether the empirical knowledge of the TRIZ design theory is suitable for Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM). We systematically assess TRIZ engineering parameters (EP) and inventive principles (IP) in the context of contradiction analysis via DfAM, drawing on 11 semi-structured interviews. Findings indicate thematic alignment between DfAM methods and TRIZ IP, but reveal that the original TRIZ engineering parameters inadequately capture the multidimensional design space offered by DfAM. We outline directions to adapt the TRIZ EP for improved applicability.