TRIZ – Pneumatics and Hydraulics
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Pneumatics and Hydraulics refers to the use of gas and liquid parts of an object instead of solid parts, such as inflatable, liquid filled, air-cushioned, or hydro-reactive parts. For example, a vehicle can store energy from deceleration in a hydraulic system and then use the stored energy to accelerate later.
Basically, Pneumatics and Hydraulics is the use of a gas or liquid in place of solid parts.
Light as Air
Have you ever seen those really cool, outdoor, inflatable projection screens at conferences or big events? These projection screens are filled with air and can be used to make an instant movie screen. The air-filled screen is greatly preferred to solid, fixed structures that require installation on site. Inflatable projection screens allow users to temporarily transform a location into a high-tech, outdoor movie theater.
I believe air is also the preferable means of travel on a float trip. I frequently go tubing down the river in Utah, and I’m always amazed at how much trouble people have with their kayaks and canoes. Their little boats are constantly getting banged and beaten up by the rocks in the river. My inflatable inner tube, on the other hand, just bounces off obstacles – and there are no issues with rocks. Floating is smooth sailing for me in my air ship.
Air mattresses are another great example of Pneumatics and Hydraulics. Hosts can create an extra bed for their guests by simply pulling the mattress out of the box and inflating the bed. Air beds are much easier to store than an actual mattress, making these pallets a simple solution to providing a comfortable place for guests to rest.
Shoe manufacturers also utilize this principle to make a more comfortable product. As you may recall from the Universal Network articles, the Reebok Pump uses an air pump in the shoe soles to give users an extra lift. Dr. Scholl’s created shoe sole inserts filled with gel, rather than using an insert filled with a solid material. Are you gelling?
Pneumatics and Hydraulics does not have to be applied literally. For instance, a person can “liquidate” their assets, and convert their funds into cash.
Can you transform a solid part in your business or product into a gas or liquid and improve efficiency?
