Function-oriented search (FOS)

Function-oriented search (FOS) is a problem-solving tool based upon identifying existing technologies worldwide, using function criteria.

Overview

Function-oriented search (FOS) is a problem-solving approach that focuses on identifying and adapting existing technologies capable of performing a required function, rather than inventing new solutions from scratch. It is based on the assumption that similar functional problems have already been solved – often in different industries or even in nature – and that these solutions can be transferred to a new context. Instead of searching within a specific technology domain, FOS shifts the perspective to the function itself, generalizing it to remove industry-specific constraints and significantly broaden the search space.

FOS is typically carried out in two main steps:

Formulating a generalized function to include all possible technologies that perform the required function, regardless of industry or application context.
Focusing on leading areas, where the most advanced or efficient technologies performing this function are likely to be found, and selecting the most suitable one for adaptation.

Articles

Generalized function