44
Weber (1992b, p. 221 ff.)
Inventing with Joins
Complement Heuristic
Combine only those tools or ideas that are used in the
same context.
Inverse Heuristic
Combine only those tools or ideas that are inverses of
each other.
Overlap Heuristic
Join only those tools with partially overlapping parts,
properties or functions.
Multiple Functions Heu-
ristic
Find multiple functions for the same part.
Specialization Heuristic
Allow for different specific [functional components] as part
of the same overall tool to maximize the fit between tool
and task.
Compacting Heuristic
Join components tightly, so they are in a package and will
not become separated or lost.
Switching Avoidance
Heuristic
Cut down on the dead time between uses that results
from having to look for a related tool and then switch to it.
Invention by Adding Features
Slot Addition Heuristic
Increase functionality by adding features […].
Packaging Heuristic
Pack as much functionality as possible into the same
structures and space.
Interface Heuristic
Develop a human interface, like a handle, that is comfort-
able and that will enhance leverage and control.
Opportunity Heuristic
Here’s a place that we can add a new function, so let’s do
it.
Invention by Refinement
Fine-Tuning Heuristic
An inventor should find the direction that evaluation crite-
ria move in, and try to anticipate the next step.
Invention by Abstraction and Transformation
Abstraction Heuristic
[…] abstraction of a building block and subsequent
spatial
transformations of that building block […].