Application of the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving in Tunnel Construction
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 131, Issue 10
Abstract
Despite the importance of innovation in construction, there is no structured approach to systematically support innovation. The theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ) provides a unique approach for structuring the development of innovative solutions for technical problems and has the potential for substantial results in construction innovation if used properly. This paper describes TRIZ and introduces its tools through applications in the field of utility tunnel construction. This paper describes how TRIZ tools can be used to generate conceptual solutions to a number of tunnel construction problems. In order to assess the practicality of the TRIZ analysis, the proposed solutions are compared to recent innovations in the field and actual solutions developed by experts. The comparison shows that although TRIZ tools were used by nonexperts in the tunneling field they included most of the features that exist in solutions developed by experts and were also able to point to technologies that are not yet widely used in the tunneling industry. The use of TRIZ in these applications showed that despite the advantages of the theory, further research and supporting tools are required to facilitate its day-to-day use in the construction industry.
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Acknowledgments
This work was funded by the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada Steacie Fellowship, Grant No. NRC245155. The writers wish to thank K. C. Er, Director of Design and Construction, Drainage Services, City of Edmonton for the opportunity to study tunneling practices at different tunneling projects in Edmonton, Alta., Canada.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 131 • Issue 10 • October 2005
Pages: 1099 - 1108
Copyright
© 2005 ASCE.
History
Received: Dec 26, 2002
Accepted: Jun 30, 2004
Published online: Oct 1, 2005
Published in print: Oct 2005
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