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Principle

19. Periodic Action

a. Replace continuous action with a periodic one, or impulse
b. If an action is already periodic, change its frequency
c. Use pauses between impulses to provide additional action

  • Principle Description:  Modify how an action is performed to achieve a desired result.

  • Hints on Usage:  If an action is continuous, consider making it periodic or pulsating. If an action is periodic or pulsating, consider changing its amplitude or its frequency — then consider using impulses to change the action.  Additionally, consider applying uniform and random patterns to amplitude and frequency to create desired results.

  • Assess the critical actions of your system’s functionality in order to find ways to modify them to achieve desired results.  Each time you modify an action explore what new functionality will be realized with the changes.  Also explore how the changes can be leveraged to move the situation toward the desired end result.

Examples:
  • Pulse high pressure water at frequencies matched to the natural frequency of rock to cut the rock.

  • Emergency vehicles use pulsating lights to make them more visible.

  • Marketers use periodic action to reinforce their message and impressions. An oft-repeated rule is “a consumer needs to see it three times before they buy.”

  • When braking an automobile on an icy road, tapping the brakes can improve the tire’s grip by exposing a new portion of the tire to the tire-road interface.

  • When viewing moving objects, it is easier to interpret information if pulsed light (strobe light) is used.

  • In aerospace, both uniform and random vibrations and thermal loads (patterns) are applied to spacecraft components at different amplitudes to determine their reliability for flight.

  • The use of random markings in a known pattern over an information field on a document can conceal the information from those who do not know the pattern.  (This is another example of where the actual meaning of the translation “periodic action” can surpass the traditional use in TRIZ).

  • In Martial Arts, repetition (periodic action) in front of a mirror is the key to mastery of the movements and fighting effectiveness.  Also, changing the patterns by performing movements with your back to a mirror, or in a different environment, strengthens this movement into muscle memory.

  • Machine tool cutters have flutes in continuously rotating periods (spiral) to remove metal from parts.

  • The transition from using an analog signal to using digital signals can conserve power and give more opportunity for control of the signal.

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