Research on Forward Design for Product Innovation

Aiming to improve the weak capacity for independent innovation in the process of product development, a new model of product forward design was constructed using the forward design method and combined with axiom design theory and TRIZ theory. First, the analytic hierarchy process was used to decompose and quantify the user demand for products. Second, a multidomain system including the behaviour domain was constructed, independent axioms were introduced into the axiom design, and the “function-behaviour-structure” relationship matrix of the product was successively established to complete the transformation of the product starting from user needs and moving to design characteristics. Then, a product characteristic conflict was identified using the model, and TRIZ theory was used to solve the conflict through the formation a multidomain mapping relationship aligned with the product systematic design. Based on the results of the innovation mode and the principle of invention, the product’s function, behaviour and structure were all subject to improvement measures. Finally, the ideal solution was applied to the product structure to modify the program design. A case study on faucets in public spaces was carried out, and the results show that this model can support product innovation effectively.