Overview
ISO/TR 23847:2022 - "Biomimetics - Integrating problem- and function-oriented approaches applying the TRIZ method" - describes prototype designs and the intended use of a biomimetics database that combines TRIZ inventive problem‑solving with biomimetic engineering. The technical report explains how a database mechanism can generate technical ideas by integrating problem‑oriented (contradiction matrix) and function‑oriented (desired function/state) approaches, and it outlines the database’s design principles and practical value for developing biomimetic products.
Key topics
- TRIZ method and Bio‑TRIZ: Use of the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) - including the 40 inventive principles and Altshuller’s contradiction matrix - adapted for biomimetics.
- Problem‑oriented approach: Searching biological functions by mapping technical contradictions to TRIZ principles.
- Function‑oriented approach: Translating TRIZ principles into biomimetic solutions via combinations of desired functions and states.
- Database theory and structure: Prototype architecture and mechanisms to link technical problems, TRIZ principles, and biofunctions to support idea generation.
- Inventory and examples: Practical examples (e.g., applying both approaches to fan design) and an inventory of biomimetic products to illustrate workflows.
- Patent and industry context: Overview of current patent trends in biomimetics and implications for commercialization across materials, structures, machines and robotics.
- Terminology & ontology: Alignment with ontology resources (see ISO/TR 23845) for consistent definitions and searchability.
Applications
- Rapid ideation and concept generation for biomimetic engineering, product design and materials innovation.
- Cross-disciplinary knowledge linkage to overcome barriers between biology, materials science, mechanical design, and control systems.
- Supporting R&D teams in industries such as materials (hydrophobic coatings, structural colours), machine design (fans, aerodynamic shapes), and robotics/control by providing structured routes from technical problems to bio-inspired solutions.
- Prior art and patent landscaping to inform innovation strategy and reduce duplicate R&D effort.
Who should use this standard
- R&D engineers and designers working on biomimetic products
- Innovation managers and patent analysts in technology-intensive industries
- Standards developers and system architects building biomimetics knowledgebases
- Interdisciplinary teams combining biology, materials science, and engineering
Related standards
- ISO/TR 23845 - Biomimetics: Ontology‑Enhanced Thesaurus (OET) for biomimetics
- ISO 18458 - (referenced process for developing biomimetic products)
- Developed by ISO/TC 266 (Biomimetics)
Keywords: ISO/TR 23847:2022, biomimetics database, TRIZ method, Bio‑TRIZ, problem‑oriented approach, function‑oriented approach, contradiction matrix, inventive problem solving, biomimetic engineering.