Separation Principles
Updated 2026-08-10
INTRODUCTION
English translation pending.
CORE DEFINITION
Separation principles are TRIZ's tools for resolving technical contradictions, where one parameter improves as another degrades. Four separations are used: time, in which the contradictory requirements are met at different moments; space, at different locations; condition, under different circumstances; and system, where the whole holds one property while the parts hold another. The insight is that the two sides need not hold at the same place and time, so both can be satisfied in a win-win rather than traded off.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Name the contradiction: state which parameter improves and which degrades. - Pick the dimension: try time, space, condition, then whole versus part. - Design to the dimension: structure the solution so each requirement is met separately.
Anchor fast decisions
A contradiction behaves like a tradeoff only because both requirements are assumed to hold at once in one place. Separating the dimension in which each applies lets every side be satisfied in its own region or regime, and the conflict dissolves rather than being negotiated.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%88%86%E9%9B%A2%E5%8E%9F%E7%90%86verified
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