The Method of Simulation by Little Manikins

Abstract

In this chapter, we will explore the method of Simulation by “Little Manikins.” The originator of TRIZ, Genrich Altshuller in the 1960s, invented the method of Simulation by “Little Manikins” (SLM) (Altshuller 1984, 1996). The method is straightforward. We should imagine that an object, part, field (frankly everything) consists of a crowd of smart Little Manikins. We can look at the problem from the inside through the eyes of these manikins. Ideas of any changes are accepted very quickly. The groups-crowd of Little Manikins could be easily separated and reorganized. SLM requires a well-organized imagination. We should imagine that the object consists of many live, smart-thinking manikins—not molecules or atoms. What do they feel? How do they act? How should they act? How should the crowd act? Becoming familiar and adept with this model is very useful for enhancing thinking skills.