Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.31803/tg-20250410052911

Convergence Methods for Practical Problem-Solving through the Generation of Diverse Ideas in the Semiconductor Industry: TRIZ & Design Thinking

Seongmin Seo orcid.org/0009-0003-6835-8594 ; (1) Department of Industrial and Management Engineering, MyongJi University, 116 Myongji-ro, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 17058, Korea / (2) Tech Master, SK Hynix Semiconductor Co., Ltd., 2091, Gyeongchung-daero, Bubal-eup, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
Yong-Won Song ; Department of Nano & Semiconductor Engineering, Tech University of Korea, 237, Sangidaehak-ro, Siheung-si, Gyeonggi-do, 15073, Korea *
Jung-Hyeon Kim ; Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, 61 Daehak-ro (yangho-dong), Gumi, Gyeongbuk, 39177, Korea
Hong-Kyun Shim ; SK Hynix Semiconductor Co., Ltd., 2091, Gyeongchung-daero, Bubal-eup, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
Su-Yeon Ko ; SK Hynix Semiconductor Co., Ltd., 2091, Gyeongchung-daero, Bubal-eup, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

This study proposes a practical approach to solving complex challenges in the semiconductor industry by integrating TRIZ, a systematic innovation methodology, with Design Thinking, a user-centered problem-solving framework. Utilizing this hybrid methodology, various solution ideas were generated and validated for industrial feasibility through a case study. Key problems were identified through direct observation of the work environment and empathy with field operators. These were then structured using function analysis and cause-effect chain analysis. Creative solutions were derived using the ARIZ-85C algorithm and grouped and refined based on their functional roles. Before full-scale application, prototypes were developed and tested to evaluate their feasibility and performance. To enhance worker safety, a redesigned powder trap was proposed, integrating a pulsing system to address issues such as hazardous odors and entrapment risks. The system's powder collection and removal functions were validated through prototype testing before being successfully implemented in an actual manufacturing environment. As a result, the required man-hours for maintenance operations were reduced from 6MH to 1MH, achieving an approximate 83% efficiency gain. Additionally, annual maintenance costs decreased by nearly 100 million KRW. The development and evaluation period was also significantly reduced from over two years to just three months. This case study confirms the practical value of integrating TRIZ and Design Thinking for addressing multifaceted problems in semiconductor manufacturing. Nevertheless, since the experiments were conducted under specific conditions, further validation across a broader range of tools and processes is necessary to generalize the findings.

Keywords

Convergence; Design Thinking; Semiconductor; TRIZ

Hrčak ID:

335268

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/335268

Publication date:

15.12.2025.

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