Analogies and chance
This is a system that uses the process of analysis on existing solutions to make them fit the newly defined problem.
They identify a common characteristic linking two applications together that previously would have no apparent link.
This can be achieved better with a trained mind, one that is consciously seeking something.
Creative minds are prepared minds that react promptly.
Products as a result of Analogies
- Velcro
- Bicycle tyre
- The landing gear of some aircraft
- The Coca Cola bottle
There are different types of analogical similarities:
There are also different techniques used to apply the principles of analogies and chance
Family relationship
This is a weak form of analogy where the physical or technical link is virtually non-existent.
The colour coding for the hot / cold and the on / off state, of water and electricity respectively
is generic of the analogy for current that links both applications together.
Form similarity
In designing, it is common to modify the geometric configuration of existing objects to apply them to completely
different applications.Often this begins with a starting analogy. For example in an object that uses CDs the initial
shape created is a circle,even though the end result could be a modified cube.
Eskild Tjalves "A short course in Industrial Design"
Has a chapter dedicated to the investigation and development of form.
This method is callledThe Structural Variation Method and creates a kind of visual matrix of various three dimentional layouts, each slightly different from the previous. This is not random but indeed a logical structural breakdown of options
The Functional Analogy
This is where two different applications function along the same principle.
E.g. The winding mechanism for a car window was possibly derrived from a piece of industrial
machinery such as the controllers for feed on a lathe, where rotational motion is translated into
linear motion.
Synectics
The terminology "synectics" is derived from the Greek word "synectikos" : meaning "bringing forth together".
It was invented in 1955 by Gordon and Prince.
Synectic thinking is a process of discovering the links between objects that have seemingly no relationship.
The principle is to mentally take things apart before rebuilding them in a range of different ways.
The theory is based on disruptive thinking.
The method distinguishes 2 phrases
- Making the strange familiar; ( Logical )
- Making the familiar strange. ( Alienation )
The first step once the problem is fully understood, is logical, creating the obvious solutions to the problem.
The second step is the "Alienation" step, for which there are 4 possible measures to consider.
- Personal Analogy - putting yourself into parts of the problem
- Direct Analogy - find an analogue problem to use as influence
- Symbolic Analogy - try to describe the problem symbolically
- Fantasy Analogy - become a child. Have an ideal or "dream" solution
The general idea is to become distant to the problem by these analogies and then to "Force fit" the ideas generated.
At this stage another technique is used.
- Itemised Response : In every solution positive and negative attributes are found. This technique attempts to turn negatives into positives.
By breaking the original idea into (+s) and (-s) a more focused direction for development can be achieved.
Buijs diagram of synetics perhaps illustrates this principle more clearly.
Formology
Formology This is the study and development of various forms There are 3 main points to consider
- Ergonomics
- Aesthetics
- Semantics
A lot of influences on shapes come directly from nature
