A TRIZ-based process model for technology evolutionary potential forecast

Product technology forecasting is an effective method to keep enterprises competitive advantage for a long term, and technology forecast tools of Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ) can provide theoretical guides for technology forecasting. The technology evolution theory that belongs to technology forecast tools of TRIZ can be applied to identify evolutionary potential of a technical system and help decision-makers to make strategic decisions. In this article, The technology forecast tools of TRIZ were introduced, and a sequential process model for technology evolutionary potential forecast of product is then formed. Based on this process model, the technology evolutionary potential of hydraulic cylinder in China was forecasted.